The Eurocopter AS532 Cougar, also known today as the H215M model by Airbus Helicopters, stands out as a twin-engine, medium-weight, multi-role military helicopter. The AS532 traces its roots back to the Aérospatiale SA 330 Puma developed in the 1970s and upgraded to meet military requirements. Closely related to its civilian counterpart, the Eurocopter AS332 Super Puma, the Cougar has proven itself as a reliable platform in both military and search-and-rescue missions.
Design and Development Process
The Super Puma, which first flew in 1977, was designed as a more powerful and advanced version of the SA 330 Puma. Equipped with two Turbomeca Makila 1A1 turboshaft engines, the helicopter features improved composite rotor blades, modified landing gear, and an optimized tail rotor. In 1990, to distinguish between civilian and military models, the military versions were renamed from AS 332 to AS 532 Cougar. Later, it was further developed into the EC725 model, reaching today’s advanced technological standards.
Versatile Variants
The AS532 Cougar has several important variants tailored for different missions:
- AS 532 UL/AL: This long-body version can carry 2 pilots and 29 soldiers. It can also be configured to transport 6 wounded on stretchers and 10 additional passengers. The armed AL version can be equipped with 20 mm cannons, rocket launchers, and machine guns.
- AS 532 SC: The naval variant, equipped with AM39 Exocet missiles, is used for anti-submarine warfare (ASW) and surface warfare (ASUW). It is also suitable for search-and-rescue and maritime patrol missions.
- AS535: Presented as a combat search and rescue (CSAR) variant for the French Army, this role was ultimately fulfilled by the EC725 helicopter.
International Operators and the Cougar in Turkey
The AS532 Cougar has a broad user base worldwide. It serves in the air and ground forces of countries including France, Germany, Spain, Saudi Arabia, Brazil, Chile, Bulgaria, Switzerland, Turkey, and many others. Turkey decided to procure the Cougar in 1993 and began receiving deliveries to the Army and Air Force starting in 1996. Produced at TUSAŞ facilities in Ankara, these helicopters actively support both search-and-rescue and military operations.
Technical Specifications (AS532 UB)
| Feature | Value |
|---|---|
| Crew | 2 Pilots + 1 Technician |
| Length | 15.53 m |
| Height | 4.92 m |
| Rotor Diameter | 15.6 m |
| Empty Weight | 4,350 kg |
| Maximum Takeoff Weight | 9,000 kg |
| Engine | 2× Turbomeca Makila 1A1 (1,185 kW each) |
| Maximum Speed | 249 km/h (134 knots) |
| Service Ceiling | 3,450 m |
| Range | 573 km |
| Carrying Capacity | Approximately 20 soldiers |
The Eurocopter AS532 Cougar continues to be an indispensable asset for modern militaries thanks to its advanced engines, carrying capacity, and versatile mission capability. Continuously updated to keep pace with evolving technology, the platform performs successfully in both land and maritime operations. With domestic production support in Turkey, the Cougar plays a critical role in both regional and international military cooperation.
