Eurocopter has signed a cooperation contract with the Malaysian Defence Ministry in support of the supply of 12 SAR-configured EC725 helicopters for the Royal Malaysian Air Force.

The cooperation contract includes the development of 13 comprehensive cooperation projects to strengthen Malaysian strategic aeronautical skills and capabilities.

The aim of the contract is to gain knowledge through the development of aeronautical training capabilities in association with Malaysian universities.

The new EC725s will replace the RMAF’s existing fleet of aging Sikorsky S-61 helicopters to perform day and night search and rescue (SAR), and utility missions in all weather conditions.

The multirole helicopter is designed to perform the most demanding missions and has operated from ships and ashore.