Airbus Helicopters’ propose EC725 for the Indian Navy NMRH programme
Airbus Helicopters’ EC725 is the most adaptable and cost-effective solution to respond to the requirement of the Indian Navy for a quickly deliverable Naval Multi Role Helicopter.
The EC725 solution for Indian Navy is based on a proposed multi-role configuration that provides maximum flexibility and utility for operations in the following mission scenarios: ASW, ASuW, special operation, commando operation, amphibious assault, troop carrier, ELINT, SAR, external cargo carrying, casualty evacuation, communication duties and CSAR.
The EC725 is the most recent addition to the Cougar family, which itself has grown from the vast experience gained over many years with its civil variant, the Super Puma. The Super Puma and Cougar family of around 650 helicopters has amassed more than 3.3 million flight hours and is used by 86 operators in 46 countries. Worldwide military operators of the 470 Cougars delivered span 33 nations; including 29 Air Forces, 7 Army Aviation units and 5 Navies.
The EC725 represents a major technological advancement and is the latest version of this medium lift (11-ton class) helicopter. It has been designed for today’s most demanding military missions. Introduced in 2005, the EC725 is already a combat proven multi- role helicopter and has seen combat service worldwide, including Lebanon, Afghanistan and recently Africa. The EC725 has operated from ships and ashore. It is a truly multipurpose, versatile military asset. Special operations, combat SAR and personnel recovery require performance, precise navigation and survivability. The EC725 is outstanding in these aspects and thus perfectly fits Indian Navy requirements for ASuW, special forces, amphibious assault, troop carrier, SAR and CSAR operations.
The EC725 has been developed jointly with the French Armed Forces for the most demanding of missions: tactical airlift and special operations. These origins allow EC725 to perfectly fulfill troop transportation missions with maximum effectiveness, survivability and maintenance simplification. Airbus Helicopters has also included in its design the most demanding civilian specifications for SAR and offshore operations concerning safety, comfort, availability and low cost of operation.
Airbus Helicopters in India : A Long Track Record
Limited (HAL) has manufactured over 600 Chetak and Cheetah helicopters - modified versions of the successful Alouette and Lama Helicopters - with full and unrestricted sharing of production and maintenance technical know-how from Airbus Helicopters. associated with HAL in development of the Advanced Light Helicopter (ALH). between Airbus Helicopters and HAL, to cover new co-operation activities. for airframe structure and composite work packages of Ecureuil/ Fennec aircraft, including HAL in Airbus Helicopters’ global supply chain. The link between India and Airbus Helicopters has always been a partnership approach rather than a client– buyer relationship. For over 50 years, licenced production, sharing of technical know-how and sourcing have been key elements and remain the core of Airbus Helicopters’s trategy in India.
Being the owner of its technology, Airbus Helicopters has the ability to deliver unique know- how transfer and high quality activities in the frame of the co-operation proposal associated withthe Indian Naval Multi Role Helicopter (NMRH) programme.
Airbus Helicopters has been very successful in developing and implementing co-operation packages worldwide. Airbus Helicopters has already developed a sound industrial co-operation on previous licenced programmes and is therefore confi dent to be in the best position to become a privileged contributor to the development of Indian aeronautical industry, and the Indian NMRH programme.