Airbus Helicopters are celebrating after winning an order for eight additional super 11-tonne H225M’s from the Indonesian Ministry of Defence.
The H225M is a member of the multi-role Super Puma family of helicopters and this military variant is currently operational around the world with some 88 in service. The French Air Force took delivery of the first H225M in 2006 and since then its has proved to be a durable and reliable craft suitable to multiple combat environments and crisis areas.
The Indonesian Ministry of Defence will be adding these new additional helicopters to the air force’s existing fleet of six H225Ms which will perform similar combat search and rescue missions. The aircraft will be delivered to the air force upon reassembly and completion of the mission equipment outfitting and customisation by PT Dirgantara Indonesia (Persero) (PTDI), at its facility in Bandung, Indonesia.
“We welcome Indonesia’s selection of our H225M helicopters for their expanding fleet. The H225M is a combat-proven helicopter that is well regarded by military customers worldwide, and Indonesia’s additional order speaks strongly of their confidence in Airbus’ helicopters,” said Ben Bridge, Executive Vice President, Global Business of Airbus Helicopters. “Indonesia continues to play a vital role in Airbus Helicopters’ global industrial footprint. With a trusted partner in PTDI, we stand ready to support the availability of Indonesia’s fleet.”
Airbus Helicopters and Indonesia have an enduring relationship of over 40 years dating back to 1976 when PTDI first obtained a licence to produce the NBO-105 helicopter. Specifically on the H225, PTDI became a key supplier of the helicopter’s rear fuselage and main airframe in 2008, with full production in place in Indonesia by 2011. The two companies expanded the industrial co-operation in 2017, to include support and services dedicated for the Indonesian military fleet of helicopters.
The H225M has a range of 700 nautical miles, which can be extended with air-to-air or hover in-flight refuelling capabilities. The craft is powered by two powerful Makila 2A1 engines, the H225M’s five-blade rotor provides an exceptionally low vibration level, and the special design of the rotor mechanical assemblies allows for lower maintenance. It can accommodate up to 28 people in a high density configuration, although 20 is more usual in normal operations. The cockpit is armoured and features all the latest electronic systems that will see the aircraft flying long in to the future.