Airbus Helicopters secures major deal with Iraq for 12 H225M multi-role helicopters

Airbus Helicopters has been awarded a contract to supply 12 H225M multi-role helicopters to the Republic of Iraq, marking a significant expansion of the Iraqi Army Aviation Command’s capabilities. The contract was signed in Baghdad by Iraq’s Minister of Defence, Thabet al-Abbassi, in the presence of French Ambassador Patrick Durel. The new helicopters are expected to replace the aging fleet of Mi-17s and will serve a broad range of missions, including counter-terrorism, special operations, tactical troop transport, attack missions, ground fire support, medical evacuation (MEDEVAC), and combat search and rescue. The delivery of the helicopters is set to begin in 2025.

H225M Helicopter: A Versatile, Combat-Proven Platform

The Airbus H225M is renowned for its versatility and performance in diverse environments. The helicopter has been widely adopted by various military forces globally, including the French Air Force, where it has been utilized extensively for combat search and rescue missions. “We are very pleased to welcome a new member to the H225M family,” said Bruno Even, CEO of Airbus Helicopters. He emphasized the helicopter’s unmatched capabilities in range, payload, and mission systems, making it ideal for challenging missions in demanding environments. “The H225M is a combat-proven platform used around the world by many operators. It has proven its worth and saved many lives since entering into service,” Even added.

The H225M boasts enhanced features due to Airbus’ continuous improvement policy. It is now equipped with new avionics, an improved main gearbox, advanced airborne communication systems, and can be integrated with the HForce weapon system. The helicopter’s maximum takeoff weight has also been increased by 160 kg, reaching 11,160 kg, further enhancing its operational capabilities. Over 350 H225s and H225Ms are currently in service worldwide, accumulating more than 880,000 flight hours.

Airbus Defence and Space Expands Cybersecurity Capabilities with Infodas Acquisition

In another strategic move, Airbus Defence and Space has finalized the acquisition of Infodas, a German cybersecurity and IT solutions provider specializing in defense and critical infrastructures. This acquisition is part of Airbus’ broader strategy to enhance its cybersecurity portfolio amid growing digitalization and connectivity within defense and aerospace products and systems.

“This acquisition supports Airbus’ strategic ambition to strengthen its cybersecurity portfolio for the benefit of its European and global customers,” stated Karen Florschuetz, Executive Vice President of Connected Intelligence at Airbus Defence and Space. With the rise of cyber threats, cybersecurity has become a pivotal aspect of Airbus’ development, especially for major military programs like the Future Combat Air System (FCAS).

Infodas, headquartered in Cologne with additional offices across Germany, employs approximately 250 people and generates annual revenues of around 50 million euros. It has been certified by the Federal Office for Information Security (BSI) as an IT security service provider for information system auditing, consulting, and penetration testing. Its Secure Domain Transition (SDoT) Security Gateway product family is approved for classification levels up to ‘secret,’ further underscoring its capabilities and alignment with Airbus’ objectives.

Implications for Iraq’s Military Capabilities and Airbus’ Strategic Growth

The addition of the H225M helicopters will significantly boost Iraq’s military capabilities, enabling the Iraqi Army Aviation Command to conduct more diverse and challenging missions with improved efficiency and reliability. Airbus Helicopters’ growing footprint in Iraq also reflects its strategic commitment to supporting regional defense modernization programs.

Similarly, the acquisition of Infodas marks a strategic expansion for Airbus Defence and Space into the cybersecurity domain, reinforcing its position as a key player in securing defense and aerospace operations against evolving digital threats. This move is particularly crucial as Airbus seeks to enhance its offerings in preparation for future high-stakes defense projects.