Brazil is to acquire 27 domestically assembled Airbus Helicopters H125 light-singles as trainers for its navy and air force.
To be built at the Itajuba plant of Airbus Helicopters’ Brazilian subsidiary Helibras, the H125s will replace older examples of the type operated by the air force and Bell 206s flown by the navy.
FlightGlobal’s 2022 World Air Forces directory lists 20 trainer-roled H125/AS350 helicopters flown by the air force, with 10 Bell 206s in naval service.
“This joint procurement contract represents the realisation of a project that will equip both the Brazilian air force and navy with modern aircraft that will meet their needs for the next 30 years,” says air force chief Lieutenant Brigadier Carlos de Almeida Baptista Junior.
Equipped with Garmin G500H TXi glass cockpits and a vehicle and engine multifunction display, the H125s will also be compatible with night vision goggles. Additional equipment will include a winch and cargo hook.