The Ecuadorian Army has begun a new phase in its military modernization with the arrival of the first two Airbus H225M helicopters, acquired to replace Russian Mi-171 models and an AS332B Super Puma. The aircraft, which arrived in the country a year late, are already undergoing operational acceptance testing.
The $90 million contract, signed in 2023, includes the delivery of five used H225M helicopters—previously operated as EC225LPs—that were upgraded to military standards in France.
The decision to switch to Western aircraft reflects increasing difficulties in sourcing spare parts for Russian models, as well as issues experienced with Indian-made Dhruv helicopters previously acquired by the country.
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Capable of carrying up to 23 troops, the H225M is a versatile helicopter equipped with night vision systems and suited for missions in hostile environments. In Ecuador, the new aircraft will play a key role in operations in the northern region, where criminal groups are active.
They will be used for tactical troop transport, medical evacuation, supply missions, and special forces insertion in jungle terrain.
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The H225Ms are expected to remain in service until at least 2050, as part of a broad modernization program for Ecuador’s Armed Forces, which also includes the acquisition of unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) and advanced command and control systems.
With this acquisition, Airbus helicopters now make up about 80% of the Ecuadorian Army’s rotary-wing fleet, reinforcing the country’s shift toward more reliable Western platforms with better logistical support.
Source and images: Ministry of Defense of Ecuador, X @DefensaEc. This content was created with the help of AI and reviewed by the editorial team.
