Korean National Police Acquires Airbus H225 for Multi-Mission Operations

New helicopter to enhance law enforcement, counter-terrorism, and emergency response capabilities across South Korea

On November 24, 2025, the Korean National Police Agency (KNPA) placed an order for one Airbus H225 helicopter, marking its debut as a customer of Airbus Helicopters. The H225, known globally for its reliability and versatility, will serve as a multi-role platform supporting law enforcement, counter-terrorism, search and rescue, humanitarian relief, and disaster response missions.

Vincent Dubrule, Head of Asia-Pacific at Airbus Helicopters, stated:

“We are honoured to welcome the Korean National Police Agency to the Airbus family. The H225 has earned a global reputation as a reliable, multi-mission workhorse. We are confident it will become a cornerstone asset for the police agency, enabling them to carry out complex missions with precision and safety.”

As the latest addition to the Super Puma family, the H225 is recognised for its high performance in challenging conditions as well as its outstanding range and payload capacity. The aircraft’s state-of-the-art avionics and autopilot systems provide increased safety while reducing pilot workload.

There are more than 360 H225s and H225Ms in service around the world, totaling close to 980,000 flight hours. Military customers include Brazil, France, Hungary, Indonesia, Iraq, Kuwait, Malaysia, Mexico, the Netherlands, Singapore, and Thailand.

The helicopter will be customized with mission-specific equipment, including advanced surveillance systems, searchlights, and rescue hoists. It is expected to be delivered in late 2026, with pilot and crew training already underway.

🔄 Latest Developments (January 2026):

• Integration Planning: Airbus and KNPA are collaborating on integration protocols to align the H225 with South Korea’s national emergency response framework.

• Fleet Expansion Possibility: Sources close to the KNPA suggest that additional H225 units may be considered in 2027, depending on operational performance and budget allocations.

• Regional Impact: Analysts note that the H225’s deployment will significantly enhance South Korea’s coastal and mountainous rescue capabilities, especially in regions prone to natural disasters.

• Public Safety Strategy: The acquisition aligns with South Korea’s broader strategy to modernize its public safety aviation assets, following recent upgrades to firefighting and coast guard fleets.

Source: Airbus & ©XAirForces News, 12 January 2026

Photo: Korean National Police Agency Airbus H225 helicopter. The Korean National Police Agency has ordered an Airbus H225 helicopter for law enforcement, counter-terrorism, and emergency missions. Delivery is expected in late 2026, marking a major upgrade in Korea’s public safety aviation. (Photo by ©Airbus)

Editor: Mark Choi (Asian ©XAirForces Editor from South Korea)

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Korean National Police Acquires Airbus H225 for Multi-Mission Operations

(12.01.2026)