Airbus has received a contract to supply two H225 multirole helicopters for the Royal Thai Air Force.
The systems will expand the service’s existing fleet of 12 H225Ms, which have been in service for various roles since 2015, including troop transport, search and rescue, and combat support.
The new platforms are expected to take on tasks such as emergency medical services and critical recovery flights, expanding the military’s commitment to national security and humanitarian assistance.
Several assembly works of Bangkok’s latest H225s will be facilitated by state-owned Thai Aviation Industries in Don Muang, fulfilling cooperation with the French aerospace company and Thailand’s indigenous expertise.
“We are deeply honoured by the continued trust the Royal Thai Air Force places in our H225 helicopters,” Airbus Helicopters Global Business EVP Olivier Michalon stated.
“This follow-on order is a testament to the H225’s versatility, advanced capabilities, and its critical role in supporting national defence and public service missions. We are proud to continue our strong partnership with the [Royal Thai Air Force], ensuring they have the best tools for their vital work.”
‘Indispensable Asset’
The H225 is a medium-lift helicopter measuring 20 meters (66 feet) in length with a 16-meter (52 feet) rotor. It can carry two pilots and up to 19 passengers.
It has a maximum takeoff weight of 11,200 kilograms (24,692 pounds), a fuel capacity of 2,771 kilograms (6,109 pounds), and can move cargo weighing 5,401 kilograms (11,907 pounds) or a sling load of up to 4,750 kilograms (10,472 pounds).
Powered by two Safran Makila 2A1 engines generating 2,101 shaft horsepower each, the H225 can reach speeds of up to 324 kilometers (201 miles) per hour.
It has a maximum range of 1,130 kilometers (702 miles), a service ceiling of 6,095 meters (19,997 feet), and endurance of up to six hours.
“The H225M has proven to be an indispensable asset to our operations over the past decade, delivering exceptional performance and reliability across diverse and challenging missions,” Royal Thai Air Force Air Chief Marshal Punpakdee Pattanakul commented.
“The addition of these two new helicopters … will further strengthen our ability to protect and serve the people of Thailand, ensuring we can respond effectively to emergencies wherever they may arise.”
