Another two Airbus H225M multi-role medium-lift helicopters have been delivered to the Hungarian Defence Forces from the factory of Airbus Helicopters in Toulouse, France. The new helicopters are to enter service with the Szolnok-based HDF 86th Helicopter Wing within the framework of the air force modernization phase of the military development program. “In the interest of the Hungarian people’s security, it is essential for us to develop our defence capabilities and procure modern equipment. The new, high-tech assets will strengthen the airlift, airdrop and special operations capabilities of the Hungarian Defence Forces.
Defence Minister Kristóf Szalay-Bobrovniczky noted that within the framework of the military development program, the Ministry of Defence had placed an order with Airbus Helicopters for altogether 16 medium-lift helicopters. Together with the newly arrived aircraft, the H225M fleet of the wing has already expanded to 12 helicopters. The delivery of new helicopters is continuous.
The Hungarian Ministry of Defence ordered 16 H225M multi-purpose helicopters equipped with the HForce weapon management system. Airbus provided an extensive training and support package to ensure the highest level of operational availability. The H225Ms selected by Hungary will be equipped with state-of-the-art communication capabilities and will be used for transport, combat search and rescue, and special operations missions. Its state-of-the art avionics and four axis autopilot, exceptional range and payload capacities, combined with a large cabin designed to carry up to 28 troops and powerful air-to-ground and air-to-surface armament as well as electronic warfare systems allow the H225M to carry out the most demanding missions.
The Airbus Helicopters H225 (formerly Eurocopter EC225 Super Puma) is a long-range passenger transport helicopter developed by Eurocopter. The EC225 is based on the Super Puma, improving upon the design with a five-blade main rotor incorporating a new airfoil shape to reduce vibration and noise levels. It is a twin-engined aircraft and can carry up to 24 passengers along with two crew and a cabin attendant, dependent on customer configuration. Since then the 11-metric-tonne H225M has proven its reliability and durability in multiple combat environments and crisis areas. A member of the multi-role Super Puma family of helicopters, this military variant is currently operational in France, Brazil, Mexico, Malaysia, Indonesia and Thailand, and has recently been ordered by Kuwait and Singapore.
