Airbus Helicopters has delivered two H225M helicopters to the French Armament General Directorate, the first of eight aircraft ordered in 2021. They will be operated by the French Air and Space Force, replacing Pumas currently in service in overseas territories (French Guyana, Djibouti and New Caledonia) and will contribute to the harmonization of the French Air and Space Force’s helicopter fleet. They will be used for operational missions, SAR and utility missions. 

“The delivery of these two brand new H225Ms to the French Air and Space Force is very symbolic as France was the first operator of the H225M. They have proven on multiple occasions the benefit of this rotorcraft for combat, search and rescue, disaster management and medical evacuation missions,” said Bruno Even, CEO of Airbus Helicopters. “We are very proud that the French Air and Space Force has renewed their trust in the Caracal,” he added. “The French Air and Space Air Force will benefit from all the innovations that have been implemented on the H225M since the helicopter started operations in 2006 with the French armed forces, further expanding the capabilities of this unique aircraft.”