Singapore's fleet of H225M, CH-47F helicopters attain full operational…

A Republic of Singapore Air Force H225M and CH-47F seen here at a ceremony where full operational capability was declared for both aircraft types. (Janes/Ridzwan Rahmat)

The Republic of Singapore Air Force (RSAF) has declared full operational capability (FOC) for its fleet of H225M medium-lift helicopters and CH-47F heavy-lift helicopters.

A ceremony to mark the milestone was held at the Sembawang Air Base on 11 April. It was attended by the country's Minister for Defence, Ng Eng Hen, who described the aircraft as assets that would enhance the Singapore Armed Forces' (SAF's) military lift capabilities.

“They will strengthen the RSAF's ability to undertake a wide range of operations, including search-and-rescue operations, aeromedical evacuations, and humanitarian assistance and disaster relief,” Ng said in his speech to mark the milestone.

“More importantly, these two new helicopter platforms will enhance cross-service integration, allowing the RSAF to better support our army and navy troops in equipment lifts,” he added.

The H225Ms will be operated by the RSAF's 125 and 126 squadrons and are progressively replacing its ageing fleet of AS332M Super Puma airframes, which have been in service since 1985.

Delivery of the first H225M took place in March 2021. It has a top speed of 175 kt, a maximum take-off weight of 11,200 kg, and a maximum range of more than 400 n miles. The aircraft can accommodate more than 20 personnel including 11 evacuees on stretchers and can carry up to 4,750 kg of underslung cargo.

For the CH-47F, delivery of the first airframe was announced by the RSAF in May 2021 and this aircraft was received by the service's detachment in Oakey, where the SAF maintains a presence of about 100 personnel at the Australian Army Aviation Training Centre.