Poland has pre-selected Airbus Helicopters’ H225M (formerly EC725) Caracal multi role heavy lift helicopter to equip its armed forces.
The 11-ton-category twin-turbine rotorcraft was selected to meet tri service requirement for 50 units, down from the 70 earlier specified.
Final contract is subjected to successful trials and meeting offset agreements, with deliveries scheduled for 2017.
Other competitors included the AgustaWestland AW149 and Sikorsky S-70i Black Hawk. The Airbus package offered a full helicopter and engine assembly line, training for locally hired workers, wide-ranging maintenance, repair and overhaul (MRO) capabilities lasting far beyond the contractual agreement and being open to potential export contracts.
Equipped with two powerful Turbomeca Makila 2A turboshaft engines, a sturdy five-blade main rotor and Spheriflex rotor head, the H225 offers long range and fast cruise speeds, along with flight endurance that exceeds 5 hours and 30 minutes.
The long-range tactical transport helicopter is suited to perform wide range of missions including special operations, combat search and rescue, tactical transport and medical evacuation.
