For the history of RAF Puma see Puma HC.1
These airframes dates back to the 1970s although they were extensively upgraded by then Eurocopter between 2009/2015.
Between March 2015 and June 2021 a RAF Puma detachment was deployed to Afghanistan (Operation Toral) in support of NATO Resolute Support Mission. During the deployment, the Pumas flew 12,800 hours, transported 126,000 passengers and moved 660,000kgs of freight.
In 2021, DoD issued the New Medium Helicopter (NMH) requirement to seek a replacement.
As of 2023, the RAF has 18 Puma helicopters in its inventory, with 13 operational.
These airframes dates back to the 1970s although they were extensively upgraded by then Eurocopter between 2009/2015.
Between March 2015 and June 2021 a RAF Puma detachment was deployed to Afghanistan (Operation Toral) in support of NATO Resolute Support Mission. During the deployment, the Pumas flew 12,800 hours, transported 126,000 passengers and moved 660,000kgs of freight.
In 2021, DoD issued the New Medium Helicopter (NMH) requirement to seek a replacement.
As of 2023, the RAF has 18 Puma helicopters in its inventory, with 13 operational.
Units
| 2023-2025 | 84 Squadron |
| 2022- | 1563 (Tactical Support) Flight1563 Flt |
| 2015-2025 | 28 Squadron |
| 2015-2025 | Puma and Chinook Operational Conversion UnitPCOCU |
| 2012-2025 | 33 Squadron |
| 2012-2025 | 230 Squadron |
News
- Jun 14, 2020 · RAF Pumas Supported Scottish Ambulance Service
- Aug 4, 2019 · RAF Puma Reached 1600 Days in Afghanistan
- May 9, 2018 · Tiger Puma to Celebrate RAF 230 Squadron 100 Years
- Dec 22, 2017 · Airbus Sign Support for RAF Puma Mk2
- Dec 20, 2017 · RAF Puma HC.2 Fleet Reaches 20,000 Flight Hours
- Apr 1, 2016 · RAF Puma HC.2 Complete First Year in Afghanistan
- Mar 24, 2016 · RAF Puma HC.2 Fleet Reaches 10,000 Flight Hours
- Feb 18, 2016 · 10,000 Flight Hours for RAF Puma Mk.2
- Jan 13, 2016 · RAF 33 Squadron Marks 100 Years
- Jul 29, 2015 · UK RAF Puma Electronic Warfare to be Updated
- Mar 18, 2015 · RAF Puma Mk2 First Operational Deployment
- Nov 26, 2013 · RAF begun training on Puma Mk2
- Jun 6, 2013 · RAF support contract for 24 Puma Mk2
- Mar 26, 2013 · GKN to upgrade UK RAF Puma fuel tanks
- Feb 7, 2013 · RAF Puma engines 13-year contract to Heli-One
- Sep 13, 2012 · First Puma Mk2 handed over to UK MoD
- Jul 9, 2012 · First internal qualification of the RAF Puma Mk2
- Jun 24, 2011 · Puma Mk2 helicopter makes its first flight
- Sep 29, 2009 · Eurocopter sign contract for RAF Puma Life Extension Programme
- Jul 6, 2004 · Eurocopter Romania Delivered First Refurbished RAF Puma