GEN-FAM PHOTOGRAPHY

Chopper in the town !

French Military Helicopters on Display at the Invalides

Paris, July 14, 2025 — Following the traditional Bastille Day military parade on the Champs-Élysées, visitors had the opportunity to admire an impressive static display on the Esplanade des Invalides, showcasing helicopters from the various branches of the French Armed Forces: the Air and Space Force, the Army, the Navy, and the Directorate General of Armaments (DGA).

Demonstration of Power and Technology

A Demonstration of Power and Technology

Set against the summer sky of the capital, the aircraft on display offered a tangible glimpse into France’s air, land, and maritime capabilities. A large crowd gathered to get up close to some of the military's most iconic helicopters.

Among the aircraft on display were:

SA330 Puma ( Search And Rescue, diver drop, Medical rescue EH 01.044 )

Caracal H225M, a flagship of the Air and Space Force, specialized in combat search and rescue and rapid deployment missions, EH 01.067

AS555AN Fennec helicopters, conducts air defense, training, quick reaction alert, and special operations support missions

H160 of the DGA, an experimental DGA prototype, likely featuring cutting-edge communication or propulsion systems, highlighting ongoing efforts to modernize military aviation.

Panther and NH90 Caïman Marine from the French Navy, used for anti-submarine warfare and maritime assault missions.

Tigre HAD (Support and Destruction variant) from the Army, a formidable asset for fire support and anti-tank missions.

NH90 Caïman TTH (tactical transport version), a key vector for troop transport and medical evacuation.

AS532UL Cougar, thiese helicopters in the French Army are primarily used for tactical transport of troops, equipment, and medical evacuation in combat zones. 5RHC

SA 342 Gazelle, these helicopters in the French Army are primarily used for reconnaissance, light fire support, and anti-tank missions.

Conclusion

This event, reflecting a spirit of inter-service cooperation, also highlighted the synergy between the different branches of the armed forces, supported by the DGA to anticipate the conflicts of the future. The display emphasized the strategic importance of air and helicopter superiority in modern military operations—whether for combat, rescue, or intelligence missions.

I would like to particularly thank the army personnel for their accessibility and kindness, without their accreditations some photos would not have been possible !

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