Federal Police of Germany receives order for 44 H225 helicopters from Ministry of Interior
The German Federal Police is set to modernise its helicopter fleet, with the acquisition of up to 44 H225 helicopters from Airbus Helicopters. This move marks the replacement of the H155 and AS332 helicopters, which have been in service for over 20 years.
The order includes 38 firm orders, with options for an additional six helicopters. The fleet will consist of single-engine H120 helicopters for pilot training and more than 40 twin-engine H135 family helicopters, which are already being used for various missions, including emergency medical services.
The H225, the latest variant of the Super Puma family, is renowned for its outstanding endurance and fast cruise speed. It can be fitted with various equipment to suit a variety of roles, making it a versatile aircraft capable of conducting law enforcement and homeland security missions.
The H225 is equipped with state-of-the-art electronic instruments and renowned autopilot precision. It boasts twin Turbomeca Makila 2A1 turboshaft engines, a five-blade main rotor for enhanced stability, and advanced avionics. With a maximum takeoff weight of 11,200 kg (24,692 lbs), a cruising speed of 262 km/h (163 mph), and a range of 857 km (532 miles), the H225 offers superior stability under load, excellent range, and multi-mission versatility.
The cabin can seat up to 19 passengers plus 2 crew, or be configured for various mission needs, including law enforcement and homeland security. The H225's payload capacity includes up to 4,000 kg internally or 4,750 kg on an external sling.
For law enforcement and homeland security missions, the H225 offers advanced radar systems, like the RDR-1600, providing weather and terrain scanning, with collision risk alerts up to 500 meters ahead, enhancing operational safety in challenging environments. The helicopter’s cabin size and configuration allow it to accommodate personnel, equipment, or medical stretchers as needed, supporting diverse mission profiles including search and rescue, tactical deployments, and surveillance.
The H225 has undergone safety improvements addressing previous concerns with flight controls and mechanical reliability, making it one of the safest helicopters for demanding missions. Its performance characteristics, such as hovering capabilities, takeoff/landing flexibility, and payload-range options, are supported by dedicated Airbus flight performance software, enabling mission planning tailored to operational needs.
Airbus Helicopters aims to make the H225 capable of flying with 100 percent sustainable aviation fuel by 2030. Deliveries of the H225 are scheduled to start in 2029.
The partnership between the Bundespolizei and Airbus Helicopters began in 1962, with the Bundespolizei operating a diverse fleet of 94 Airbus helicopters. The new mission and communication system of the H225 guarantees improved situational awareness and smooth data transmission between police forces.
Bruno Even, CEO of Airbus Helicopters, expressed pride in the H225 contributing to Germany's security and aiding its citizens. The H225 has accumulated flight hours in all-weather conditions around the world, offering the best range, speed, payload, and reliability in the 11-tonne twin-engine category.
The German Federal Police's modernized aerospace fleet will include helicopters from the finance sector, specifically the H225 from Airbus Helicopters, which is used for law enforcement and homeland security missions. The H225, a twin-engine helicopter, showcases technology advancements with state-of-the-art electronic instruments and autopilot precision, making it suitable for various roles within the industry.
