Morocco upgrades air force with new fleet of H225M helicopters
Morocco upgrades air force with new fleet of H225M helicopters

Morocco has officially signed a deal to purchase ten H225M helicopters from Airbus Helicopters, marking a major step forward in modernizing its military fleet. These advanced aircraft will replace the aging Puma helicopters, which have been in service with the Royal Moroccan Air Force for more than 40 years.

The acquisition is part of a broader strategy aimed at boosting the country’s combat search and rescue capabilities. The H225M is well-regarded for its performance in high-risk environments, and the Moroccan version will come fully equipped for demanding operations. Each helicopter will feature dual hoists, a powerful searchlight, and the Safran Euroflir 410 electro-optical system. In addition, the aircraft can be outfitted with machine guns and an electronic warfare suite to ensure self-defense in hostile situations.

Airbus Helicopters CEO Bruno Even praised the deal, highlighting it as a continuation of a long-standing relationship built on trust and cooperation. He described the agreement as a significant milestone that strengthens ties between Airbus and Morocco, a partnership that spans several decades.

The contract goes beyond just delivering the helicopters—it also includes comprehensive technical support. Airbus will provide ongoing maintenance services and operational assistance to ensure the fleet performs at the highest level. With this order, Morocco joins a growing list of nations relying on the H225M for both special operations and military rescue missions around the globe, reinforcing the helicopter’s reputation as a versatile and battle-proven platform.