The EϹ725, an evolution of the Eurocopter ΑS532 Cougar, refines the design by incorporating a five-blade composite main rotor with a new airfoil shape, effectively reducing vibration levels. Priced at an estimated $20 million each, the EϹ-725 Caracal helicopter stands as Airbus’ long-range tactical transport helicopter. As the latest addition to the Cougar family, this 11-ton helicopter has demonstrated reliability and durability in combat conditions, adapting to the demands of the modern combat environment and showcasing its versatility in various military roles.
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The EϹ725, an advanced iteration of the Eurocopter ΑS532 Cougar, enhances its design with a five-blade composite main rotor and a new airfoil shape, reducing vibration levels. This helicopter can be equipped with detachable armor plating for troop protection and is powered by two Tυrbomeca Makila 1Α4 turboshaft engines mounted over the cabin, featuring a dual-channel Full Authority Digital Engine Control system.
Behind the cockpit lies the spacious passenger compartment, dominating most of the fuselage. The EϹ725 can transport 5.67 tons of cargo or accommodate 29 soldiers. Positioned above the passenger cabin are the engines, propelling a five-blade main rotor and a four-blade tail rotor. The overall dimensions of the EϹ-725 include a length of 19.5m (63.97 ft) and a height of 4.6m (15 ft).
Its landing system comprises two main single-wheeled legs and a double-tired nose leg. In-flight refueling is facilitated by a probe on the starboard side, extending the operational range significantly. Various kits are available for customers to customize the EϹ725 for specific task roles.
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The EϹ725 helicopter is equipped for both day and night search and rescue operations with a search radar and Forward Looking Infrared capabilities, enabling operations under visual and instrument flight rule conditions.
Tailored to customer needs, the EϹ725 can be customized with various military equipment and weapons. Options include 7.62 mm FN MΑG machine guns mounted on forward left and right windows, 68 mm side-mounted rocket launchers with 19 rockets each, or the MU90 impact aerial-launched torpedo.
Its modular structure allows for the integration of a Helibras-built countermeasures suite, featuring chaff and flares to counter radar and heat-guided missiles. Airbus has recently conducted successful tests of the EϹ-725 version with the anti-ship Exocet, enhancing the helicopter’s combat capabilities.
