Dutch Special Operations Forces Now Equipped with Their Own Helicopters.

The Special Operations Forces (SOF) of the Netherlands now have their fleet of helicopters, creating a new operational capability under the 300th Special Operations Squadron, based at Gilze-Rijen Air Base. This squadron, part of the Defence Helicopter Command, was officially established on October 1, 2024, marking a significant development for Dutch military aviation.
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The Special Operations Forces (SOF) of the Netherlands now have their fleet of helicopters. (Picture source: Dutch MoD)

The personnel of this new squadron are tasked with carrying out special reconnaissance missions, offensive actions, and providing military support. These operations will be conducted in close collaboration with the Korps Commandotroepen and the Maritime Special Operations Forces, ensuring effective coordination between ground and air units.

To be able to operate in the most challenging conditions, the squadron will be equipped with its intelligence capabilities and a new fleet of helicopters, particularly the H225M Caracal models. Additionally, the Ministry of Defence is investing in advanced infrastructure, vehicles, and communication systems to ensure the unit can train and operate at the highest possible level.

The H225M Caracal is a versatile helicopter designed for military transport, search and rescue, and special operations missions. This aircraft, particularly valued for its capabilities in difficult environments, has a remarkable range, allowing it to cover distances of up to 920 km with standard fuel tanks and up to 1,253 km with additional tanks. During extended missions, it can fly for approximately 4 hours and 30 minutes without refueling.

With a maximum speed of 324 km/h and a recommended cruising speed of 262 km/h, the H225M is capable of transporting up to 31 people, including crew and troops. Its maximum takeoff weight reaches 11,000 kg, and it can lift up to 11,200 kg in external loads. This helicopter is particularly suited for material transport operations, with a payload capacity of 5,250 kg and a maximum sling load of 4,750 kg.

In terms of performance, the H225M is powered by two Safran Helicopter Makila 2A1 engines, each offering 1,567 kW of takeoff power. In the event of an engine failure, it can still provide a temporary maximum power of 1,784 kW for 30 seconds, ensuring safety in critical situations. Its hover ceiling, depending on atmospheric conditions, is 1,935 m in ground effect and 792 m out of ground effect.

With a rotor diameter of 16.20 meters and an internal volume of 15.50 cubic meters, the aircraft offers substantial transport capacity while being equipped with crash-resistant, self-sealing fuel tanks with a standard capacity of 2,277 kg, which can be increased to 3,059 kg with auxiliary tanks. The H225M Caracal is a robust and high-performing helicopter, capable of fulfilling various military and humanitarian missions in extreme conditions.

During the inauguration ceremony, Chief of Defence General Onno Eichelsheim emphasized the importance of intelligence, speed, and precision in modern military operations. "Effective intelligence and reconnaissance allow us to strike where necessary, unexpectedly and discreetly. This is the essence of our special forces, and the creation of this Special Operations Squadron significantly enhances that capability," Eichelsheim stated.

The 300th Squadron has a long history, having been founded in 1968 and operating with various types of aircraft over the decades. The squadron has been based in several locations, including Ypenburg, Deelen, Soesterberg, and Gilze-Rijen. In recent years, it has been involved in a wide range of missions, from firefighting to international deployments. Notably, the unit played a key role in the Kabul evacuation operation in 2021, supported anti-piracy missions off the coast of Somalia, and participated in operations in Afghanistan.

The transition to a Special Operations Squadron represents a major shift for its personnel, who must adopt a "warrior mindset" to meet the demands of their new role. General Eichelsheim acknowledged the challenges this entails but expressed confidence in the squadron's future success. "You push your limits as well as those of your team, and in doing so, you bring immense value to both the Netherlands and NATO," he concluded.

The formation of this squadron is a crucial enhancement of the Netherlands' special operations capabilities, providing a solid foundation for future missions both domestically and internationally.

The H225M Caracal is a versatile helicopter designed for military transport, search and rescue, and special operations missions. (Picture source: Dutch MoD)