The Royal Thai Air Force has signed a contract to acquire two additional Airbus H225 helicopters, enhancing its capacity for search-and-rescue and emergency medical operations. These new aircraft will complement Thailand’s existing Super Puma fleet, in service since 2015, and are to be completed locally by Thai Aviation Industries under its partnership with Airbus Helicopters. The acquisition reflects a decade of operational experience with the type across combat search and rescue, tactical transport, and humanitarian missions, signaling ongoing reliance on heavy twin-engine rotorcraft for both national security and disaster response.
The H225M Caracal is a heavy-lift, long-range helicopter powered by two Safran Makila 2A1 turboshaft engines and a five-blade Spheriflex main rotor. It provides a range of approximately 600 nautical miles, seating for up to 28 troops, and an external sling capacity of about 4,750 kilograms. The helicopter cruises at roughly 262 kilometers per hour and can reach 324 kilometers per hour, sustaining over four hours of endurance on internal fuel. Its four-axis autopilot includes search-and-rescue specific modes such as automated search patterns, low-level hover transitions, and fly-away protection, while the avionics suite supports precision approaches and real-time power margin awareness.
Cabin flexibility allows rapid reconfiguration for litters, medical kits, or troop seating, with belly and side hoist options and heavy underslung loads. The military configuration includes optional self-protection suites, armor kits, door guns, and in-flight refueling capability, expanding operational reach and survivability in Thailand’s mixed maritime and jungle environments. De-icing certification and shipboard compatibility allow rapid deployment for cyclones, floods, and medevac operations from remote locations.
The procurement aligns with Thailand’s broader modernization strategy and strengthens industrial collaboration with Airbus. Local completion by Thai Aviation Industries supports sustainment skills and fleet readiness, while maintaining operational synergy across aircrews and ground support. This approach ensures interoperability with regional H225M operators and enhances heavy-lift capability while mitigating lifecycle risks associated with a single-type fleet.
(Source: Army Recognition)
