Several recently decommissioned Westland Puma HC.2 helicopters have already been promised to Ukraine to enhance its assault and medical evacuation capabilities. Previously, in the fall of 2022, the UK offered three Westland Sea King HU-5 helicopters, a move that Germany followed last year.
According to sources, the UK Ministry of Defence is preparing to donate between eight and ten Puma HC.2 helicopters at no cost. These aircraft were retired just days ago and come from the 33rd Squadron, previously based in southern England, and the 230th Squadron, which was repatriated from Southeast Asia after being stationed in Brunei.
The Westland Puma HC.2 is an older helicopter, but it’s worth noting that the current fleet was completely rebuilt by Eurocopter and later Airbus Helicopters between 2012 and 2014. During this period, the original Puma HC.1 models from 1971 were upgraded to the HC.2 standard. These helicopters remained in active service until Monday, March 31, 2025.
The Puma HC.2 features tactical night flight capabilities and can transport up to 15 fully equipped and armed personnel. Additionally, it is equipped with modern self-defense systems designed to counter ground-launched missile threats.
These helicopters are used in a variety of combat roles, including tactical troop transport, delivery of weapons, ammunition, and supplies to the battlefield, as well as medical evacuation and emergency response for frontline casualties. They are also deployed for non-combatant evacuations, humanitarian missions, and disaster relief operations.
The aircraft can carry up to 16 passengers, 12 fully equipped soldiers, or up to 2 tons of cargo. The cargo can be transported internally, carried as an external load, or a combination of both. For medical evacuation and emergency response missions, the helicopter can be configured to accommodate up to six stretchers.
In recent months, Ukrainian officials have been cautious when discussing older-generation helicopters they aim to acquire, with the Puma being a top priority. This platform offers a degree of security, given the number of units still in service with allied forces.
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A few days ago, Portugal delivered eight SA 330J helicopters to Ukraine. Additionally, France is considering supplying decommissioned units currently in storage. For Ukraine, the Puma could serve as an effective replacement for older variants of the Mi-8.
Source: Avionslegendaires
