Iraq Is Replacing It’s Soviet Mi-17s With Airbus’ H225M Multi-Role Helicopters
The Iraqi Republic has decided to replace its existing Soviet Mil Mi-17 helicopters with Airbus’s H225M multi-role tactical transport helicopters due to restrictions on the spare parts supply. This decision was formalized last week in an agreement signed in Baghdad by Iraqi Defence Minister Thabet al-Abbassi in the presence of French Ambassador Patrick Durel.
In its statement, Airbus Helicopters stated that the agreement includes 12 H225M helicopters, but no comment was made on the cost. The company also reported that these helicopters, which will start to be delivered in 2025, will be operated by the Iraqi Army Aviation Command (IAAC) and join the country’s H125, H135, and H145 helicopters already in service.
When H225Ms enter service with the Iraqi Army, they will be used in various operations and missions such as counter-terrorism, special operations, tactical troop transport, assault, fire support, medical evacuation (MEDEVAC), and combat search and rescue.
Bruno Even, CEO of Airbus Helicopters, made the following statements regarding the agreement, which will contribute to increasing the capabilities of the Iraqi Armed Forces and strengthening its sovereignty:
“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 is unmatched in terms of range, payload and also mission systems. It has been designed to operate challenging missions in the most demanding environments. “
The H225M is a multi-role helicopter and is the most advanced member of Airbus’ military Super Puma/Cougar family. The H225M, according to Airbus Helicopters, enables military forces to be deployed wherever and whenever needed. The helicopter is powered by two Turboméca MAKILA 2A1 turboshaft engines, each having 2,100 shaft horsepower with sand and dust filters in the air intakes for landing on rugged terrain. The H225M can carry up to 28 troops and two pilots. The helicopter has a maximum take-off weight of 11,200kg, a cruise speed of 141 kilometers per hour, and a range of 909 kilometers. It also possesses a belly hook for transporting external loads weighing up to 4,750 kg.