Royal Thai Air Force signs contract for two new H225 helicopters

The Royal Thai Air Force (RTAF) has signed a contract with Airbus Helicopters for the purchase of two additional H225 helicopters. The agreement was concluded on September 26, 2025, at Marignane, France, and marks a further expansion of the RTAF’s H225M fleet, which has been in service since 2015.

The announcement comes the day after the Royal Thai Air Force became the first customer for the A330 MRTT+, Airbus’ new generation aerial refueling aircraft.

The new helicopters are designated for search and rescue (SAR) and emergency medical services (EMS) missions. According to RTAF officials, the acquisition is aimed at enhancing operational capabilities in these critical areas while reaffirming the force’s commitment to national security and humanitarian support.

The H225, part of the Super Puma family, is a twin-engine helicopter with a maximum takeoff weight of 11 tons and a range of approximately 850 km. The model is used globally for a wide range of missions, including combat search and rescue (CSAR) and troop transport. The RTAF also operates H135 helicopters for military training.

Integration of the new H225 units into the RTAF fleet will be carried out by Thai Aviation Industries (TAI) in cooperation with Airbus. The head of the RTAF noted the aircraft’s role in challenging operations over the past decade, and the new order reflects ongoing confidence in the type’s performance.

Worldwide, more than 360 H225 and H225M helicopters are in service, with a combined total of approximately 980,000 flight hours. Military operators include France, the Netherlands, Hungary, Brazil, and Singapore. Airbus Helicopters highlighted the continuation of its partnership with the Thai Air Force.

With the arrival of these additional helicopters, the RTAF is expected to increase its operational flexibility in SAR and EMS missions. Delivery and full integration by TAI are anticipated to proceed in line with the force’s operational requirements.

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