Mexico has been operating a European military helicopter for years that has proven to be versatile in very different missions, from humanitarian support to security operations. That background, added to recent signs about the modernization of the air fleet, once again places the Airbus H225M at the center of the conversation. The operation would mean expanding the presence of a model that is already part of the Mexican Air Force.
The program. A key piece to understand the current scenario is provided by the Military Zone. The media claims to have consulted an investment program that contemplates the acquisition of three Airbus H225M to reinforce the 101st Air Squadron. The document to which it refers sets an estimated budget of 172 million dollars and includes not only the purchase of the aircraft, but also the training of technical personnel and their long-term maintenance.
Confirmed. On February 10, during the Mexican Air Force Day ceremony at Military Air Base No. 1 of Santa Lucía, the Secretary of National Defense, Ricardo Trevilla Trejo, announced that the institution will promote the modernization of its fleet with new acquisitions. In his words, “the permanent updating of its air fleet will be promoted with the acquisition of 10 multipurpose helicopters,” in addition to other aircraft intended to reinforce operational capabilities.
The Airbus H225M on scene. This possible fit gains weight when the previous trajectory of the Mexican Air Force itself with this platform is observed. In 2010, it incorporated twelve EC-725 Super Cougar helicopters, acquired from Eurocopter, today Airbus Helicopters. The first units arrived in 2011 and the delivery process was completed in 2014, the year in which the manufacturer’s restructuring led to the adoption of the H225M name. This previous tour outlines a scenario of operational continuity consistent with the idea of expanding capabilities within the same family of aircraft.
A multirole helicopter with proven range. Airbus describes the H225M as the most capable member of the Super Puma/Cougar military family, an 11-tonne aircraft whose reliability and versatility have been proven in demanding combat environments. According to the manufacturer, the platform has accumulated more than 300,000 flight hours in different operational theaters since 2007 and has maintained mission availability levels greater than 95% in high threat conditions.
Key data. It can carry up to 28 equipped soldiers or be configured for medical evacuation with 11 stretchers and four paramedics, as well as operate from land bases or ships in adverse weather conditions, including severe icing. Its radius of action reaches 920 kilometers, expandable to 1,253 with auxiliary tanks and capable of being extended by refueling in flight.
Advanced technology. Beyond its scope or availability, the H225M incorporates a set of systems designed to facilitate mission management and reduce crew workload. Airbus highlights its four-axis automatic flight control system, capable of providing precision and stability both in normal conditions and in scenarios with a single operating engine, in addition to allowing automatic maneuvers such as automatic hovering with a precision of 1 meter. Added to this is a digital cockpit with enlarged screens, integrated navigation systems and safety alerts that are only displayed when necessary.
Survival and maintenance. This helicopter was conceived from the beginning with a clear focus on operational endurance and crew protection. The structure incorporates reinforcements, energy-absorbing landing gear and self-sealing fuel tanks, while the cabin can be equipped with armor and warning systems against radars, missiles or laser designators. The model can also integrate the HForce modular weapon system, with configurations ranging from side machine guns to rockets or guided missiles, although the specific configuration depends on each operator.
Images | Mexican Air Force | Airbus
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