Britain to Transfer Modernized Puma HC.2 Helicopters to Ukraine
The UK Ministry of Defense is preparing to transfer eight to ten recently decommissioned Westland Puma HC.2 helicopters to Ukraine. These machines, modernized between 2012-2014, will significantly enhance the transport and evacuation capabilities of the Ukrainian military.
Modernized Helicopters to Strengthen Ukraine’s Defense Capabilities
The UK Ministry of Defense plans to transfer eight to ten modernized Westland Puma HC.2 helicopters to Ukraine, which have just been decommissioned. According to Avions Legendaires, the machines will come from two British units – No. 33 Squadron from southern England and No. 230 Squadron, which was based in Southeast Asia (Brunei).
Although these helicopters have considerable service age, they underwent extensive modernization between 2012 and 2014 by Eurocopter and Airbus Helicopters teams. During the upgrade, the machines were converted from the 1971 Puma HC.1 standard to the modern Puma HC.2 version, which remained in active service until March 31, 2025.
The modernized Puma HC.2 received significant technological upgrades, including:
- Advanced night tactical flight system, which can become a critical advantage in confronting Russian invaders
- Modern protection systems against ground-based missile attacks
- Increased payload capacity – up to 15 fully equipped military personnel
It’s important to note that Ukrainian military has long expressed interest in receiving previous-generation helicopters, with Puma being a top priority on their list. This is due to high losses of existing Mi-8 and Mi-17 helicopters, as well as the constant need for their cannibalization to maintain airworthiness.
Britain is not the only country providing Ukraine with helicopters of this type. Recently, Portugal transferred eight machines in the SA.330J modification, and France is considering providing their Puma helicopters currently in storage. It’s worth mentioning that in autumn 2022, the British already transferred three Westland Sea King HU-5 to Ukraine, and German partners later followed this example.
The addition of Puma HC.2 helicopters to the Ukrainian air fleet will be an important step in strengthening the transport and evacuation capabilities of the Armed Forces of Ukraine, especially considering the significant number of such machines still in service with allied countries, which guarantees reliable logistical support.
The transfer of British Puma HC.2 will be an important step in strengthening the air capabilities of the Armed Forces of Ukraine and will help to more effectively perform transport and evacuation missions in the conditions of war with the Russian aggressor.
