“Introducing the H225M: Airbus Helicopters and Helibras Unveil a Game-Changing Naval Warfare Aircraft”
Itajubá, Brazil, 27 October 2016 – Helibras and Airbus Helicopters are making significant strides in the evolution of the H225M multirole utility helicopter by officially unveiling the first aircraft configured for naval combat. This impressive model, developed and assembled by Helibras, the subsidiary of Airbus Helicopters in Brazil, is tailored to meet the rigorous demands of the Brazilian Navy, excelling in mission capabilities that include anti-surface warfare and maritime surveillance.
The upgraded H225M features a Helibras-designed tactical mission system complete with an APS-143 surveillance radar, advanced self-protection systems, and signals intelligence capabilities. Additionally, it comes armed with two AM39 Exocet anti-ship missiles. The helicopter’s cargo bay is equipped with a specialized sensor operator console, enabling the mission commander to maintain a comprehensive overview of the tactical landscape. An automatic identification system (AIS) enhances the crew’s ability to gather information on surface vessels.
“I am particularly proud to present this new version,” stated Richard Marelli, president of Helibras. “This latest and unique iteration of the H225M is a testament to the dedication and effort our teams have put in here in Brazil, collaborating closely with Brazilian military customers. It also showcases our capability to effectively transfer technology, skills, and expertise to Brazil, reinforcing our commitment to the nation’s aerospace industry.”
The H225M naval combat version unveiled this week in Itajubá is set to be the first of its kind delivered to the Brazilian Navy in 2018, following the completion of military certification trials. This helicopter is part of a broader global order for 50 H225Ms for the Brazilian Armed Forces, 26 of which have already been delivered across the Air Force, Navy, and Army. Helibras is responsible for the full assembly of H225Ms in Itajubá, which includes mission equipment integration, flight line activities, and industrial acceptance. Notably, Helibras aims to achieve 50% national content by 2020, having developed a local supply chain involving more than 37 Brazilian companies.
The H225M marks the latest advancement within the renowned Super Puma/Cougar family of military helicopters, boasting over 500 units delivered globally. To date, 138 H225M Caracal helicopters have been ordered by countries including France, Brazil, Mexico, Malaysia, Indonesia, Thailand, and Kuwait.
