H225M Caracal Helicopters: A Powerful Advance for France
France’s defense procurement agency has recently expanded its aerial capabilities with the delivery of two H225M Caracal helicopters to the Air and Space Force. This delivery marks the first installment of eight H225M Caracals that were ordered from Airbus Helicopters back in April 2021. These new aircraft are equipped with enhanced operational capabilities, setting them apart from their predecessors.
Significant upgrades have been made to the H225M Caracal, including advanced optronic cameras that improve detection capabilities. Additionally, the helicopters feature a modernized cockpit and an upgraded GPS navigation system for precise operational performance. The French versions of the Caracal are also outfitted with new radios, electric winches, and orientable headlights, making them particularly effective for nighttime missions.
Strengthening France’s Aerial Fleet
With this latest addition, France now boasts a total of 21 Caracal helicopters. Of these, 13 are allocated to the Air and Space Force, while the remaining eight serve within the army. The new H225Ms are set to replace the older Puma fleet currently operated by the French Air and Space Force in strategic locations such as Guyana, New Caledonia, and Djibouti.
The Caracal helicopters play a critical role in enhancing France’s defense capabilities, offering versatility in various mission types. They are designed for combat search and rescue, tactical transport, and medical evacuation operations, reflecting a robust commitment to national defense.
Specifications and Capabilities of the Caracal
The H225M Caracal is a twin-engine helicopter with impressive specifications. It features a wingspan of 16.2 meters (53 feet) and a length of 19.5 meters (64 feet), weighing 7.2 tonnes (15,873 pounds) with a maximum takeoff weight of 11 tons (24,251 pounds). This size allows the aircraft to carry up to 28 troops or facilitate medical evacuations with up to 10 stretchers and five medical personnel.
In terms of performance, the Caracal can reach speeds of up to 324 kilometers (201 miles) per hour and operate at a maximum altitude of 6,000 meters (19,685 feet). Furthermore, it is capable of in-flight refueling, significantly extending its operational range. The helicopter can also be armed with various systems, including two 7.62 mm MAG 58 machine guns and a 20 mm SH20 cannon, enhancing its combat readiness.
