The Dutch Ministry of Defense has acquired 14 new H225M Caracal military helicopters from Airbus to replace its aging fleet of 12 AS532 Cougar medium-weight multipurpose helicopter which have been in service for almost 30 years.
The value of the contract which includes mission equipment and training has not been disclosed.
These helicopters will be deployed for special operations under the Royal Netherlands Air Force Defence Helicopter Command. Further, like their predecessors, the Caracals will be based at the Gilze-Rijen Air Base, in the south of Netherlands.
The first delivery is expected for the beginning of 2028.
About Airbus H225m Caracal Military Helicopters
Manufactured by Airbus Helicopters, the 11-metric-tonne H225M Caracal are a long-range tactical transport military helicopter developed from the Eurocopter AS532 Cougar for military use.
It is a twin-engined aircraft and can carry up to 28 seated troops along with two crew, depending on customer configuration.
Operating both from ships and land – even in icing conditions – this helicopter has an all-weather capability supported by night vision goggle compatibility.
The helicopter’s outstanding 700 NM range can be extended with air-to-air or hover in-flight refuelling capabilities.
Powered by two powerful Makila 2A1 engines, the H225M’s five-blade rotor provides an exceptionally low vibration level, and the modular Spheriflex design of rotor mechanical assemblies allows for lower maintenance.
The H225M excels in a full range of military missions:
• Special operations
• Combat search and rescue
• Tactical transport
• Casualty / medical evacuation
As well as in public service missions:
• Search and rescue (SAR)
• Fire fighting
• Coast guard
• Exclusive economic zone (EEZ) protection
Specification Source: https://www.airbus.com/en/products-services/helicopters/military-helicopters/h225m
