At the end of March 2025, Great Britain officially decommissioned 16 Puma HC.Mk 2 transport helicopters, which had been in service for an impressive 54 years. The decision to retire these aircraft marks a significant moment in British military history, as these helicopters have played vital roles in various military operations since their introduction in 1972.
According to Defense Express, there is a high probability that these helicopters could be transferred to Ukraine, a move that would bolster the Ukrainian Air Force amid ongoing conflict. This speculation is supported by the active support of London towards Kyiv and the fact that Ukraine has already received eight similar SA330 Puma helicopters from Portugal in 2023.
The potential transfer of British Pumas is particularly significant as it would help unify the Ukrainian Air Force's fleet without introducing a wider variety of equipment models. This strategy could enhance operational efficiency, allowing for easier maintenance and training.
French publication Avions Legendaires, citing its own sources, reported that Great Britain is preparing to transfer between 8 to 10 Puma helicopters to Ukraine. While this figure is lower than what might be officially documented, it’s essential to consider that not all helicopters may be in flying condition or have sufficient resources for continued operation. Some of the older machines could potentially serve as sources for spare parts.
In practical terms, if all eight Portuguese Pumas are operational, the addition of British helicopters could bring the total number of such aircraft in Ukraine’s arsenal to between 16 and 18. This increase would significantly enhance the capabilities of the Ukrainian military.
The Puma HC.Mk 2 helicopters are designed for versatile transport tasks. They can carry up to 2 tons of cargo, accommodate 12 soldiers in full gear, or transport six wounded individuals on stretchers along with accompanying personnel. After undergoing modernization in the 2010s, these British Pumas were equipped with more powerful Makila 1A1 engines from the Super Puma helicopter. Each engine boasts 1800 horsepower, enabling the helicopters to fly up to 550 kilometers at speeds of up to 310 kilometers per hour.
In addition to their powerful engines, the helicopters have received upgrades to their avionics and are equipped with modern digital control systems, enhancing their operational capabilities.
The British Army has actively utilized these helicopters in various military campaigns, including the Falklands War, operations in Iraq and Afghanistan, and numerous peacekeeping and humanitarian missions. Throughout their service, pilots have praised the Puma for its maneuverability and ability to operate in challenging conditions, including hot climates and high altitudes. These attributes, while perhaps not critical for Ukraine, underscore the helicopter's robust design and performance.
As the situation develops, it is noteworthy that official announcements regarding the transfer of these helicopters may come only after the actual delivery, similar to the previous transfer of British Sea King helicopters to Ukraine, which occurred without prior public announcements.
This potential transfer of Puma helicopters highlights the ongoing military support from Western nations to Ukraine, particularly in light of the challenges faced in the region. The introduction of these aircraft would not only enhance the Ukrainian military's capabilities but also signify a continued commitment from allies to support Ukraine in its defense efforts.
In summary, the decommissioning of the Puma HC.Mk 2 helicopters by Great Britain could pave the way for a significant military aid package to Ukraine. With the modernization of these helicopters, their addition to Ukraine’s fleet could play a crucial role in strengthening its defense capabilities against ongoing threats. As the international community continues to monitor the situation, the potential transfer of these helicopters stands as a testament to the solidarity shown towards Ukraine in its pursuit of security and stability.
