Iraq orders 12 new H225M Caracal helicopters in new defense deal with Airbus.

On September 5, 2024, the Iraqi Ministry of Defense formalized an agreement with Airbus Helicopters to purchase a fleet of 14 military helicopters, comprising 12 new H225M Caracal models and two additional helicopters of a different type. The contract signing took place in Baghdad and was attended by Iraq's Defense Minister Thabet Muhammad Saeed Al-Abbasi, French Ambassador Patrick Durel, and a representative from Airbus Helicopters. According to the agreement, deliveries are expected to begin in early 2025.
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By acquiring the H225M, Iraq becomes the ninth military customer for this helicopter model, following other countries such as France, Hungary, Mexico, Brazil, Thailand, Malaysia, Indonesia, and Singapore. (Picture source: Brazilian MoD)

As reported on August 13, 2024, interest in the potential acquisition of H225M Caracal helicopters had been rising following a statement by General Tahseen Al-Khafaji, spokesperson for the Joint Operations Command, in an interview with Al Iraqiya television on July 31, 2024. General Al-Khafaji indicated that discussions were underway for a possible contract with France involving the H225M Caracal, describing the aircraft as suitable for a variety of operational environments in Iraq. He noted that political and military leaders were working to finalize the agreement, though he did not provide additional details, which left the status of the deal open to interpretation.

Based on comparable agreements, the cost for the 12 H225M Caracal helicopters could be around 800 million euros, similar to a deal signed with the United Arab Emirates in December 2021. The specific financial terms of Iraq's contract have not been disclosed. Previous negotiations for the Caracal helicopters encountered challenges, including reported hesitancy from the French Ministry of Economy and Finance to provide financial guarantees to French companies involved in business with Iraqi authorities. Recent developments, however, suggest that these obstacles have been addressed.

The contract with Airbus results from discussions that began in January 2023, when Iraqi Prime Minister Mohammed Shia al-Sudani visited Paris and met with representatives from French defense manufacturers and Airbus. These talks covered potential acquisitions, including helicopters, radars, and Dassault Rafale fighter jets. Ambassador Durel confirmed that the recent agreement was a product of "exchanges and discussions" between French President Emmanuel Macron and the Iraqi Prime Minister, suggesting that it is part of Iraq's broader plan to enhance its military capabilities.

The H225M Caracal, initially known as the Eurocopter EC725, is a medium-sized, twin-engine military helicopter derived from the Cougar Mk2 to meet requirements for combat search and rescue (CSAR), special operations, and tactical transport missions. (Picture source: Indonesian Air Force)

This acquisition is consistent with Iraq's strategy to diversify its military procurement sources by balancing purchases from both Western and Eastern suppliers. Iraq continues to be involved in other defense agreements, such as ongoing contracts with Russia for additional T-90 tanks. In recent years, Iraq and France have engaged in multiple negotiations to enhance Iraq's defense capabilities through strategic partnerships, including the procurement of modern military equipment, joint exercises, and defense infrastructure modernization.

By acquiring the H225M, Iraq becomes the ninth military customer for this helicopter model, following other countries such as France, Hungary, Mexico, Brazil, Thailand, Malaysia, Indonesia, and Singapore. The Netherlands has also announced plans to replace part of its helicopter fleet with H225s. Airbus has secured three contracts for the H225M in 2024, following a slower year for sales in 2023. To meet Iraq's delivery schedule, Airbus has adjusted production timelines in coordination with another customer.

While the financial specifics of the Iraq deal remain undisclosed, previous contracts offer some context. For example, the French Ministry of the Armed Forces ordered eight H225M helicopters in 2021 for approximately 300 million euros. This contract aligns with the Iraqi Ministry of Defense's strategy to enhance the capabilities of its armed forces by engaging with established international companies, as noted by Defense Minister Thabet Muhammad Saeed Al-Abbasi during the announcement.

The H225M helicopter offers a range of about 1,200 kilometers with additional fuel tanks and can operate at a service ceiling of 6,095 meters (20,000 feet), making it suitable for high-altitude missions. (Picture source: Airbus Helicopters)

Arnaud Montalvo, head of Airbus Helicopters for the Middle East, confirmed that the 12 H225M helicopters would begin delivery in early 2025 but did not provide details about the financial aspects of the deal. The French Embassy in Baghdad also confirmed that the agreement included a total of 14 helicopters. Ambassador Durel noted that the agreement stemmed from ongoing discussions between French President Emmanuel Macron and Iraqi Prime Minister Mohammed Shia al-Sudani, which began during the Prime Minister's visit to Paris in January 2023. During that visit, al-Sudani met with representatives from French defense manufacturers and discussed the potential acquisition of helicopters, radars, and Dassault Rafale fighter jets.

In remarks following the agreement, Ambassador Durel commented on the strong defense relationship between France and Iraq, mentioning their cooperation in combating terrorism and ISIS. He also emphasized France's continued support for Iraq in enhancing its sovereignty and security through military partnerships and industrial cooperation.

The H225M Caracal, initially known as the Eurocopter EC725, is a medium-sized, twin-engine military helicopter developed by Airbus Helicopters. It was derived from the Cougar Mk2 to meet requirements for combat search and rescue (CSAR), special operations, and tactical transport missions. The helicopter first flew in November 2000 and entered service with the French Air Force in 2005. It has since been adopted by various military forces worldwide, including those in Brazil, Malaysia, and Singapore, due to its versatility and advanced avionics.

The H225M Caracal can transport up to 29 troops or a combination of personnel and cargo, with a total payload capacity of up to 4,750 kg for underslung loads. (Picture source: Brazilian MoD)

The H225M Caracal is based on the Cougar family but incorporates several enhancements, such as a five-bladed main rotor and a reinforced main gearbox, which increase its payload capacity, range, and speed. It is powered by two Safran Makila 2A1 turboshaft engines, each delivering 2,382 horsepower, with a maximum speed of approximately 324 km/h. The helicopter offers a range of about 1,200 kilometers with additional fuel tanks and can operate at a service ceiling of 6,095 meters (20,000 feet), making it suitable for high-altitude missions. It can transport up to 29 troops or a combination of personnel and cargo, with a total payload capacity of up to 4,750 kg for underslung loads. The cabin is designed for flexibility, allowing configurations for various missions, including medical evacuation, with the capability to accommodate up to 11 stretchers.

The helicopter's advanced avionics include a glass cockpit with multifunction displays, a digital map, and an autopilot system that reduces pilot workload and supports operations in challenging environments. The five-blade main rotor system is designed to enhance lift and reduce vibration, contributing to stable flight performance. The H225M has been used in several notable operations, such as evacuations during the 2006 Lebanon conflict and support missions in Afghanistan. Its global use is illustrated by purchases such as Brazil's order for 50 units.