Iraqi Army Aviation Replacing Mi-17s

Airbus Helicopters announced the Republic of Iraq has purchased 12 H225M helicopters. The contract was signed in Baghdad by Iraq Minister of Defence Thabet al-Abbasi with French Ambassador Patrick Durel in attendance.

The Iraqi Army Aviation command will operate the multi-role helicopters as it replaces the older Mi-17 aircraft to enhance its capabilities in a broader range of missions including counter-terrorism, special ops, tactical troop transport, attack, ground support, medevac, and combat search & rescue. Iraq currently operates Airbus helos from the H125, H135, and H145 lines.

Bruno Even, CEO of Airbus Helicopters said, “We are very pleased to welcome a new member in the H225M family. The H225M is a combat-proven platform used around the world by many operators, including the French Air Force, for combat search and rescue missions. It has proven its worth and saved many lives since entering into service.”

The H225M has proven reliable and durable in combat as well as other crisis scenarios. Airbus’s continuous improvements program means that the H225M now has new avionics, an improved main gearbox and airborne communication systems, and can accommodate the HForce weapon system. Its max takeoff weight has been increased to 11,160 kg.

Even added, “The H225M is unmatched in terms of range, payload and also mission systems. It has been designed to operate challenging missions in the most demanding environments. We are looking forward to seeing the H225M contribute to Iraq’s safety and sovereignty.”

FMI:  www.airbus.com/en/