Eurocopter EC 725 Caracal

The long-range military helicopter built for transport and combat rescue.

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Airbus EC725 Super Cougar in the Brazilian Navy © Ministério da Defesa

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Overview

Eurocopter France 2005–Present $18 million (2020)

The Eurocopter EC 725 Caracal is a military transport helicopter derived from the Super Puma family. Entering service in the 2000s, it supports combat search and rescue and troop transport missions. The aircraft emphasizes range and survivability.

Specifications

Units
Engine
2 × Turbomeca Makila 1A4 turboshafts
Engine type
Turboshaft
Power
2 × 2,382 shp · 1,776 kW
Avionics
Wind River Glass Cockpit
Wing tips
No winglets
Seats
28
Crew
—
Cabin width
5 ft 11 in  ·  1.80 m
Cabin height
4 ft 9 in  ·  1.45 m
Cabin length
25 ft 10 in  ·  7.87 m
Exterior length
64 ft 0 in  ·  19.50 m
Tail height
16 ft 4 in  ·  4.97 m
Fuselage diameter
6 ft 7 in  ·  2.00 m
Wing span
53 ft 2 in  ·  16.20 m
Baggage volume
—
Gross weight
—
Empty weight
—
Max takeoff weight
24,700 lb  ·  11,200 kg
Max landing weight
—
Max payload
12,500 lb  ·  5,650 kg
Fuel capacity
810 gal · 3,100 L · 2,400 kg (Jet A)
Max cruise speed
140 kt  ·  161 mph  ·  259 km/h
Maximum speed
—
Cruise speed
—
Approach speed
—
Range
500 nm  ·  580 mi  ·  930 km
Fuel burn
0.80 nm/gal  ·  0.39 km/L
Ceiling
19,997 ft  ·  6,100 m
Rate of climb
1,064 ft/min  ·  5 m/s
Takeoff distance
—
Landing distance
—
(/) tap to zoom
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French Air Force EC725 on lift off

Operational Context

Eurocopter EC 725 Caracal — military transport helicopter

The EC 725 first flew in 2000 and entered service in 2005. It incorporates reinforced structure and mission systems suited to military operations. The helicopter is optimized for extended overwater and combat missions.

Two turboshaft engines producing approximately 2,400 shaft horsepower each power the Caracal. Cruise speed approaches 160 knots (296 km/h). Maximum takeoff weight exceeds 24,000 pounds (10,886 kg).

The EC 725 has served with multiple armed forces worldwide. Its capabilities include troop transport, search and rescue, and special operations support. The helicopter remains active in modern military fleets.