Airbus Helicopters Signs Contract with Royal Thai Air Force for Two H225 Multi-Role Helicopters
Marignane, France – On Friday, September 26, 2025, Airbus Helicopters announced the signing of a contract with the Royal Thai Air Force (RTAF) for the purchase of two H225 multi-role helicopters. This new acquisition will greatly enhance the RTAF’s capabilities in search and rescue (SAR) and emergency medical services (EMS) operations, demonstrating their dedication to national security and humanitarian support.
The H225M helicopters will join the RTAF’s existing fleet, which has been in service since 2015. These robust aircraft are currently used for a variety of critical missions, including combat search and rescue (CSAR), general search and rescue flights, and troop transport operations. The RTAF also operates a fleet of H135 military training helicopters, highlighting their longstanding partnership with Airbus. The completion work for the new H225s will be carried out by Thai Aviation Industries (TAI) through a well-established partnership with Airbus Helicopters, ensuring seamless integration and local expertise.
Air Chief Marshal Punpakdee Pattanakul of the RTAF stated, “The H225M has proven to be an essential asset to our operations over the past decade, providing exceptional performance and reliability in diverse and challenging missions. The addition of these two new helicopters, specifically designated for SAR and EMS, will further strengthen our ability to protect and serve the people of Thailand, ensuring we can respond effectively to emergencies wherever they may arise.”
Olivier Michalon, Executive Vice President of Global Business at Airbus Helicopters, expressed his gratitude for the continued trust of the Royal Thai Air Force in the H225 helicopters. He stated, “This follow-on order is a testament to the H225’s versatility, advanced capabilities, and its critical role in supporting national defense and public service missions. We are proud to continue our strong partnership with the RTAF, ensuring they have the best tools for their vital work.”
The H225 and H225M helicopters are in service around the world, with over 360 aircraft and close to 980,000 flight hours. Military customers include France, the Netherlands, Hungary, Brazil, Mexico, Singapore, Thailand, Malaysia, Indonesia, Iraq, and Kuwait.
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