Airbus Helicopters has delivered the first H225M medium helicopter to the Republic of Singapore Air Force (RSAF). At least one was ferried in an Antonov An-124 to the RSAF base of Paya Lebar on March 22. Delivery was initially scheduled for late 2020 but was delayed due to supply chain concerns associated with the Covid-19 pandemic.
“Airbus is very happy to celebrate this important milestone with the RSAF. This delivery is exceptionally significant as Airbus and the RSAF overcame the Covid-19 pandemic challenges in 2020 to achieve a smooth handover of the helicopter," said Airbus Helicopters CEO Bruno Even. "The RSAF has been a long-term partner of Airbus since its first Aérospatiale SA316B Alouette III entered into service more than 50 years ago. We appreciate the trust Singapore has placed in our helicopters, and we look forward to the H225Ms playing a critical role in the RSAF for many years to come.”
Singapore’s ministry of defense signed an order for the H225M in November 2016. The number of helicopters has yet to be confirmed but is believed to be 16. They are intended to replace the AS332M1 Super Pumas that first entered service in 1983 and operate with the 125 Squadron at Sembawang and 126 Squadron at Oakey in Queensland, Australia. The helicopters will be used in a range of roles, including air assault, search and rescue, aeromedical evacuation, and maritime security, and will also be available for humanitarian and disaster relief tasks. Both squadrons also fly the newer AS532UL Cougar, which will be retained in service alongside the H225Ms
Airbus Helicopters has sold the H225M to Brazil, France, Hungary, Indonesia, Kuwait, Malaysia, Mexico, and Thailand, as well as to Singapore, and 104 are currently in service. The global fleet has amassed more than 143,000 flight hours.