MARIGNANE, France — Airbus Helicopters has officially initiated manufacturing on the first H225M Caracal long-range tactical transport helicopter for the Royal Netherlands Air and Space Force (RNLASF) at its primary production facility in Marignane, France.
The initiative follows a November 2024 contract between the Dutch Ministry of Defence (MoD) and Airbus Helicopters for 12 custom-configured H225M platforms. Purpose-built to support Special Operations Forces (SOF), the incoming fleet will operate under the newly established 300 Special Operations Squadron based at Gilze-Rijen Air Base. The aircraft will replace the Defence Helicopter Command’s (DHC) legacy fleet of 12 AS532 U2 Cougar (H215M) transport helicopters, with test flights slated for 2028 and initial operational deliveries targeting early 2030.
TECHNICAL SPECIFICATIONS: AIRBUS H225M CARACAL (SOF VARIANT – RNLASF) 
* Aircraft Manufacturer: Airbus Helicopters (Marignane, France)
* Program Status: Production phase commenced (October 2026); Test trials scheduled for 2028; Deliveries scheduled 2030–2032
* Procuring Authority: Dutch Ministry of Defence (Defensie)
* Operating Unit: 300 Special Operations Squadron (300 SOF Sqn / DHC), Gilze-Rijen Air Base
* Legacy Platform Replacement: Replacing 12 AS532 U2 Cougar (H215M) helicopters
* Platform Architecture & Physical Parameters:
* Maximum Takeoff Weight (MTOW): ~11,000 kg (11 metric tons)
* Propulsion: 2× Safran Makila 2A1 turboshaft engines driving a 5-blade main rotor
* Cabin Accommodation: Up to 28 combat-equipped troops or specialized tactical insertion payloads
* Mission Systems & SOF Enhancements:
* Customized tactical communications, secure datalinks, and electronic warfare self-protection suite (SPS)
* Dedicated optical/infrared tactical insertion sensors and fast-roping / rappelling gear
* Long-range tactical transport, Combat Search and Rescue (CSAR), and Medical Evacuation (MEDEVAC) capabilities
* Joint Tactical Integration:
* Primary Operational Customers: Army Commando Corps (Korps Commandotroepen – KCT) and Navy Maritime Special Operations Forces (NL MARSOF)
* Deployment Profile: High-risk, covert, and expeditionary special operations insertion, resupply, and extraction
