Iraq's Ministry of Defense has directed the acquisition of twelve Airbus H225M helicopters.
Airbus H225M Helicopters Set to Enhance Iraqi Army Aviation
The Republic of Iraq has awarded a contract for 12 H225M multi-role helicopters to Airbus Helicopters. This move is set to significantly boost the capabilities of the Iraqi Army Aviation, as these helicopters are designed for demanding missions such as counter-terrorism, special operations, and combat search and rescue (CSAR).
The H225M is a highly versatile and capable platform, equipped with two Turboméca Makila 2A1 turboshaft engines delivering 2,382 shp each. This powerful engine setup gives the helicopter a maximum speed of 324 km/h, a cruise speed of 262 km/h, and a range of approximately 1,253 km (extendable beyond 1,000 km with in-flight refueling).
The H225M can accommodate a two-person crew and up to 28 passengers, making it suitable for troop transport, quick insertion/extraction in special operations, and cargo transport. It also supports sling load operations and firefighting missions, including night operations with night vision goggles.
In terms of armament, the H225M can be outfitted with the HForce weapon system that integrates a 20 mm autocannon, 70 mm rocket pods, and planned future upgrades to include guided anti-tank missiles. This weaponization supports counter-terrorism and combat roles effectively.
The H225M is also equipped with a Scorpion helmet-mounted sight display, Wescam electro-optical sensors, triple inertial navigation systems, a multifunctional load management system, winch, rappelling and fast-roping gear. These features enhance mission versatility, situational awareness, and rapid deployment under combat conditions.
Unique among French Armed Forces helicopters, the H225M supports in-flight refueling by the Airbus A400M, enabling flight durations over 10 hours, which is critical for extended-range CSAR and special operations deep behind enemy lines.
The H225M has proven its reliability and durability in combat conditions and crisis areas, saving many lives since entering service. It is unmatched in terms of range, payload, and mission systems. The helicopter is in active service with at least 12 countries, including France, Hungary, Brazil, and others, emphasizing its modern and widely trusted platform status for both military transport and combat support roles.
Bruno Even, CEO of Airbus Helicopters, expressed pleasure about the new H225M member in their family. Deliveries of the H2225M helicopters will begin in 2025.
The H225M has already been used by many operators worldwide, including the French Air Force, for combat search and rescue missions. Military customers of the H225M include France, Malaysia, Indonesia, Thailand, Singapore, Mexico, Kuwait, Brazil, and Hungary.
Iraq, which already operates a fleet of Airbus helicopters from the H125, H135, and H145 families, will now operate the new H225M helicopters, replacing older Mi-17s for various missions. The total flight hours of these helicopters exceed 880,000.
The contract signing took place in Baghdad, attended by the Minister of Defence of Iraq and the French Ambassador.
[1] Airbus Helicopters - H225M [2] FlightGlobal - Iraq orders 12 Airbus H225Ms [3] Defense News - Iraq orders 12 Airbus H225M helicopters [4] Janes - Iraq orders 12 Airbus H225M helicopters [5] Airbus Helicopters - H225M in-flight refueling
The upcoming delivery of 12 H225M helicopters to the Iraqi Army Aviation, as highlighted in reports from FlightGlobal, Defense News, and Janes, will undoubtedly bolster both the finance and aerospace industries due to the orders' significant value. This diverse and versatile platform, renowned for its contributions in counter-terrorism, special operations, and combat search and rescue (CSAR), also supports in-flight refueling by the Airbus A400M, further underscoring its broad industrial applications.
