The Super Puma
and its importance in critical missions
The Super Puma, a multi-purpose helicopter designed by Airbus Helicopters, is currently enjoying renewed interest in both the military sector and the oil and gas industry.
In particular, the H225 Super Puma is being considered for a return to offshore operations in the North Sea (Tony Cramp, vice-president of Shell Aircraft, mentioned this possibility at the Helicopter Investor conference in London in June 2024).
Super Pumas are also used by the Finnish Finish Border Guard, which operates five H215 Super Puma helicopters for land and sea border surveillance, as well as search and rescue missions at sea. These aircraft are equipped with advanced technologies such as a UV/IR scanner, a maritime surveillance radar, a Synthetic Lateral Aperture Radar (SLAR) and an Automatic Identification System (AIS).
Above all, they are also equipped with the Everaxis Full Icing Protection System (FIPS), guaranteeing safe and efficient operations in extreme conditions.
Interview with Ole EKSTAM , Logistic Manager for the Finish Border Guard (RAJA) and the coastguards
To better understand the impact of the Everaxis Icing protection system on their operations, we asked Ole Ekstam and his teams in the field to give us their thoughts in an exclusive interview.
What is the mission of the Finnish Border Guard?
Our mission is critical, in particular search and rescue and maritime surveillance. We are the main authority for search and rescue at sea and, since 2019, we have also been responsible for operations to combat marine pollution on the high seas. We also prevent cross-border crime and participate in national defence.
How is climate change affecting your missions, particularly with regard to icing?
The need for icing protection remains constant. However, this year, weather fluctuations have put our system to the test. One day it’s cold, the next it’s hot, which increases the build-up of ice. The icing protection system plays a vital role in our missions, and its functionality is a key success factor in our operations.
Do you use the Everaxis Icing Protection system? How does it help you in your work?
During the winter season, from September onwards, we use the icing protection system continuously. We remove it for the summer season (May to August). The existence of the system is crucial, especially over the sea, where humidity is high.
What do you think of the reliability of the system and the support provided by Everaxis?
The system has been very reliable. We consider that the system has performed very well. Everaxis’ support has been outstanding, and they are a pleasure to work with.
An essential operational requirement for safe missions
This feedback from the Finnish Border Guards highlights a crucial point: icing protection is an absolute necessity to ensure the safety and efficiency of helicopters missions in extreme conditions. The growing variability of the climate makes this requirement even more acute, with weather conditions becoming increasingly unpredictable.
The Everaxis full icing protection system has proven to be reliable and effective, offering essential protection to crews who have to operate in difficult environments. Everaxis’ technical expertise and responsive support guarantee optimised maintenance and maximum equipment availability.
Precision icing protection in extreme conditions
The Super Puma equipped with the Everaxis icing protection system is an essential asset for forces operating in extreme environments. This technology makes it possible to adapt to changing climatic conditions. It also ensures the operational continuity essential for critical missions such as sea rescue or surveillance.
This feedback highlights the extent to which innovation and reliability of onboard systems are crucial for helicopters operators and confirms Everaxis’ key role in this field. Technology that is mandatory for missions leaves no room for approximation.
To find out more
Our Everaxis products for Super Puma Icing Protection are as follows:
PLATFORM
DESIGNATION
P/N Everaxis
H215/AS332 Mk1/AS532
H215/AS332 Mk1/AS532
H225/EC225 Mk2/H225M/ EC725
H225/EC225 Mk2/H225M/ EC725
Tail Rotor AFT de-icing Slip Ring
Main Rotor FWD de-icing Slip Ring
Main Rotor Slip Ring
Tail Rotor Slip Ring
107550
28420
120100
122050
Do you have any questions?
Contact us, our teams will be happy to discuss the issues you face and advise you!
Photo credit : Sebastian Sainio