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German Ministry of Interior orders up to 44 H225 helicopters for federal police

The German Ministry of the Interior ordered up to 44 H225 helicopters for its federal police, described by Airbus as a record order for the H225, which includes 38 firm orders with options for a further six helicopters. Airbus explains the helicopter model’s payload, range and advanced systems make it a versatile aircraft capable of conducting an array of law enforcement and homeland security missions ranging from special forces transport to firefighting and disaster relief. Deliveries are scheduled to start in 2029.

“We’re proud that our H225 will contribute to the security of Germany and help its citizens in need,” said Bruno Even, CEO of Airbus Helicopters. “The Bundespolizei can look forward to a modern helicopter thanks to the continuous improvements we’ve made to our H225 in recent years. It will remain one of the most advanced helicopters available on the market for the decades to come.”

The H225 will replace the H155 and AS332 helicopters that have been in service with the German Federal Police for more than 20 years. Airbus explains the order of the H225 will ensure a seamless transition for pilots and maintenance personnel. The contract also includes training means and spare part packages.

Airbus explains the H225’s new and powerful mission and communication system results in improved situational awareness and smooth data transmission between police forces. It also has an improved main gearbox and an extended health and usage monitoring system, which increases safety and helps to save costs. With a maximum takeoff weight of 11,160 kg, the H225 offers an increased range of more than 832 kilometres (1,107 km with external fuel tanks) and an external payload of 4,750 kg, key for missions like disaster relief and firefighting. Airbus plans that the helicopter will be able to fly with 100 per cent sustainable aviation fuel by 2030 which was already demonstrated at ILA Berlin 2022.

The German Bundespolizei operates 94 Airbus helicopters, ranging from the single-engine H120 used for pilot training, to more than 40 twin-engine H135 family helicopters for several missions including emergency medical services on behalf of the Federal Office of Civil Protection and Disaster Assistance (Bundesamt für Bevölkerungsschutz und Katastrophenhilfe), and the Super Puma family, of which the H225 is the latest variant. The partnership began in 1962, when the Bundespolizei (at that time Bundesgrenzschutz) started operation of its Alouette II, manufactured by Airbus predecessor company Aérospatiale.

Offering the industry’s best range, speed, payload and reliability in the 11-tonne twin-engine category, the H225 is the latest member of Airbus Helicopters’ Super Puma family that has accumulated more than 6 million flight hours in all-weather conditions around the world. Equipped with state-of-the-art electronic instruments and renowned autopilot precision, the H225 offers outstanding endurance and fast cruise speed, and can be fitted with various equipment to suit a variety of roles.