Helicopters: the French fleet expands

France has just ordered new helicopters to expand its fleet. These are prototypes of type H225M and VSR700. While this is a strong gesture to support the helicopter industry, this order also provides more advanced technology. France, like many countries, is choosing to invest in new devices to replace the most aging. This sector, like many others, is also struggling with the current period, marked by the COVID-19 pandemic.

A long-awaited order for new helicopters

The Direction Générale de l’Armement has thus begun eight H225M aircraft and a VSR700, the second which will be part of the ranks of the French army. The H225M helicopter will be operated by the French Air and Space Force. This device has excellent autonomy and multirole capability that makes all the difference in a fleet. The first deliveries of these new devices are expected to begin as early as 2024. These helicopters will meet the operational needs of the air and space forces, gradually replacing the Puma fleet.

These helicopters mark the turning point in the world of military aircraft. About 11 tons, they are particularly versatile, reliable. They also have an air-to-air refuelling capability, making them an additional strength. Worldwide, 104 H225M helicopters are currently in service, with more than 143,000 cumulative flying hours.

Airbus H225M helicopter
Credit: Airbus Helicopters

The VSR700 is an unmanned aerial system for the French Navy in partnership with Naval Group. It is a particularly powerful autonomous platform that marks a turning point in the functioning of armies, especially naval ones. This aircraft meets a real operational need of the French armed forces.

Both aircraft are designed to meet a wide range of military missions. Missions such as combat, search, rescue, medical evacuation, support to the population in times of crisis… So many missions planned on French soil, but also for the operations of the French armed forces based abroad.

Buy helicopters, support to a sector affected by the pandemic

With the global COVID-19 pandemic, the Airbus Group is going through a difficult period. Indeed, for the aviation part, few orders from the airlines. Due to lack of flights, no need to order new aircraft. On the other hand, for a more military dimension, orders continue, because, despite the pandemic, innovation continues. Orders for aircraft and helicopters therefore continue. Airbus Helicopters has ordered two H145 helicopters on behalf of civil security and ten H160 aircraft for the French National Gendarmerie.

In a period when the global market for the helicopter industry is experiencing a 50% decline… The support of this sector with the purchase of new devices makes it possible to support and revive the market in the coming years. This mobilisation also enables Airbus to secure more than 960 jobs for the next three years, as well as for all its suppliers.

For the moment, the planes and helicopters are still based in Cazaux, in the South-West of France, not far from Bordeaux. As soon as they are delivered, they will be sent to the destination bases.

For several years now, Airbus has been the world leader in the design of helicopters and aircraft for pure commercial or military purposes. Over the years, the devices are modernized, and are equipped with the latest technologies.

City air flight
The helicopters intervene during missions in France and abroad.

Renewing your fleet, a growing need

For the armed forces and airlines, regularly renewing its fleet of helicopters and aircraft makes it possible to modernize, and to limit obsolescence as much as possible. Indeed, in a military context, having state-of-the-art aircraft makes it possible to remain effective in its various operations and actions. Actions both on French soil and abroad.

Sources:

France orders prototypes H225M and VSR700 to support the helicopter industry. Airbus Helicopters press release published on 15 April 2021

H225M – Heavy airbus

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