Turbomeca offers Poland best-in-class engine solution

In support of the H225M Caracal acquisition by the Polish Armed Forces, Turbomeca (Safran) is delivering an optimum engine solution and comprehensive industrial benefits for the nation’s manufacturing sector. Turbomeca, a company founded by Joseph Szydlowski, a Polish engineer, is the world leader in helicopter engines.

The H225M is powered by the Turbomeca Makila 2. This 2,100-shp turboshaft is one of the highest-performing and most reliable engines in its category. This combat-proven engine is particularly effective when operating in military transport and rescue missions and has earned a reputation as a safe and reliable partner for operators flying in challenging conditions, notably the North Sea and extreme military environments. Certified in 2004, the Makila 2 powers the H225 and H225M helicopters (manufactured by Airbus Helicopters).

Turbomeca is delivering a complete and comprehensive industrial cooperation package to Poland's aerospace industry. In April 2013, Turbomeca and Airbus Helicopters agreed with Wojskowe Zaklady Lotnicze 1 (WZL 1) to establish two full assembly lines, one for the H225M and one for the Makila 2. In 2014, Turbomeca has proposed to the Polish Government a unique partnership with WZL 1 covering both the manufacturing of new Makila 2 engines and the setting up of a repair center in the factory of WZL 1 in Deblin. The transfer of such industrial capabilities will be fully supported by Turbomeca through a deep training program and reliable technical assistance.

The extensive involvement of WZL 1 within the Makila 2 Caracal program will create unique ties with Turbomeca and Safran, based on cutting-edge technologies and the sharing of technical know-how and expertise. Such long-term partnership will enhance WZL 1 capabilities and skills with regard to the aerospace standards to the benefit of the Polish Armed Forces, thus reinforcing the sovereignty and the autonomy of Poland in Europe.

Maxime Faribault, Turbomeca Executive Vice President for OEM Sales, said "Turbomeca is fully supporting the acquisition of the H225M by Poland and the creation of this industrial cooperation package. The Makila 2 is a proven and reliable solution for the Polish Armed Forces and the involvement of WZL 1, in both manufacturing and MRO support activities, will form the basis of a long-term cooperative venture. We are confident it will succeed."