The Third generation of Cougar Family designed for the most demanding missions.
The EC725 is a new version of the medium-lift (11-tonne category) twin-engine COUGAR helicopter. The French Armed Forces have decided to enefit
from the very enhanced performance of this new version for its future Combat SAR and Special Operations helicopters. First flight of the COUGAR EC 725 took place in November 27.2000 in Marignane (France).

Compared to the Super Puma MK2, the EC225 offers higher operational availability, increased payload (+15%), longer range (+5%) and faster cruising speed (+7%). This performance upgrade was achieved by replacing the MAKILA 1A2 with the new MAKILA 2A engines that develop 14% more power, by strengthening the gearbox to transmit 8% more power and by integrating the new highly aerodynamic 5-bladed Spheriflex® main rotor.