H225M Enters Service with Ecuador Army Aviation

Ministerio de Defensa de Ecuador, June 03, 2025 - New helicopters with the ability to respond swiftly and effectively against enemies of the state, enhanced nationwide mobility, and strategic equipment for a range of missions—including life-saving operations—are just a few of the reasons why the National Government’s acquisition of these French aircraft marks a milestone in military modernization and a firm commitment to strengthening the Armed Forces.

The aircraft were delivered by the President of the Republic, Daniel Noboa Azin, along with the Minister of Defense, Gian Carlo Loffredo, and the Military High Command, during a military ceremony held on Monday, June 2, at Fuerte Huancavilca in Guayaquil. The helicopters are now officially under the command of the Ecuadorian Army, ready to fulfill various missions in service of the country.

President Noboa highlighted the work of the Armed Forces in defending every corner of the country amid the ongoing non-international armed conflict. “Soldiers of the Nation are not alone—they have the support of their government and of a country that is grateful for their courage and loyalty. Today we are delivering the first two multipurpose helicopters from a fleet of five, which will reinforce their security missions and enable agile, timely deployment for humanitarian aid. We are here to do things right. We are strengthening our laws to restore peace and security. We will win this battle with honesty, honor, and unity.”

Minister Loffredo stated that three additional helicopters from the fleet are expected to be delivered later this year, boosting the Army’s capabilities in logistics and border control to tackle issues such as illegal mining. “This is the decisive action the Armed Forces will take against illegal mining,” he said. He also announced continued investment in military equipment, including drones, pickup trucks, technological systems, and more.

The Airbus H225 helicopters are equipped with advanced technology and will be essential for striking forcefully against criminal organizations and mafias, allowing rapid and precise deployment in high-risk areas. They will provide broad surveillance over strategic zones and can transport high- and medium-value targets, as well as inmates. The aircraft are equipped with a winch for search and rescue operations, a Bambi Bucket system for efficient wildfire suppression, and general support for national emergency missions.

Key features of these French-manufactured helicopters include the capacity to transport up to 23 passengers, a crew of four, and a payload of up to 4,500 kilograms. They can reach speeds of approximately 280 kilometers per hour and have an operational autonomy of up to three continuous flight hours.

The National Government reaffirms its commitment to continue working toward peace and security for all Ecuadorians, and to further strengthen and equip its Armed Forces.

H225M Helicopter

The Airbus Helicopters H225M, formerly known as the Eurocopter EC725 Caracal, is a formidable long-range tactical transport military helicopter renowned for its versatility and robust capabilities. Developed from the Eurocopter AS532 Cougar, this twin-engined aircraft can carry up to 28 seated troops along with two crew members, depending on the customer's configuration. It is marketed for a wide array of demanding military missions, including combat search and rescue (CSAR), long-range tactical transport, aeromedical transport, logistic support, and shipboard maritime operations. Its all-weather capability, supported by night vision goggle compatibility, search radar, and forward-looking infrared (FLIR) systems, allows it to operate effectively day and night, even in challenging conditions like icing or sandy environments.

Beyond its transport capabilities, the H225M is designed for high survivability and can be heavily armed. Its airframe features reinforced structural mainframes, high energy-absorbing landing gear, and self-sealing, crashworthy fuel tanks. Crew and cabin can be further protected with armor plating. For offensive and defensive roles, the H225M can be equipped with various armaments, such as 7.62 mm FN MAG machine guns, 68 mm rocket launchers, and even Hellfire air-to-surface missiles, integrated via systems like the HForce Generic Weapon System. Its advanced avionics, including a four-axis dual-duplex automatic flight control system, reduce crew workload and enhance mission safety, making it a reliable and effective asset for modern military forces worldwide.