Replacement of Soviet junk: Iraq orders 12 H225M helicopters from Airbus

Airbus has signed a contract with Iraq for 12 H225M multipurpose helicopters.

Here's What We Know

The contract was signed in Baghdad by Iraqi Defence Minister Thabet al-Abbassi in the presence of French Ambassador Patrick Durel.

The Middle Eastern country will replace old Soviet Mi-17s with modern H225Ms to have a wider range of possible missions. These include counter-terrorism, special operations, tactical troop deployment, evacuation, etc. Deliveries will begin in 2025. The H225M will join other Airbus helicopters: H125, H135 and H145.

"We are very pleased to welcome the newest member of the H225M family. These helicopters are a combat-proven platform that is in use around the world by many operators, including the French Air Force," said Bruno Even, CEO of Airbus Helicopters.

Due to the fact that the H225M is constantly being modernised, it has the most advanced avionics, communication systems, weapons, etc. In addition, the maximum take-off weight of the new version has been increased by 160 kg to 11,160 kg.

More than 350 H225 and H225M helicopters are in operation worldwide with a total flight time of over 880,000 hours. Countries using this helicopter: France, Malaysia, Indonesia, Thailand, Singapore, Mexico, Kuwait, Brazil and Hungary.

Source: Defence Industry Europe