Eurocopter EC635
Airbus Helicopters · France · first flew 2001 · helicopter
The Eurocopter EC635 is the military variant of the EC135, adapted for light attack, reconnaissance, and utility roles with stub wing pylons for weapons and equipment. It offers customers the reliability of the proven EC135 platform in a combat-capable configuration.
Recognition (WEFT)
| W — Wings | High-mounted, rotary |
|---|---|
| E — Engines | 2 × turboshaft, fuselage-mounted |
| F — Fuselage | 12.19 m fuselage |
| T — Tail | Conventional |
WEFT is AircraftIQ's four-point recognition method — how it works.
Spot it by:
- Military light attack and utility variant of the EC135
- Fenestron tail rotor, stub weapon pylons
- Armed version for export military customers
Appears similar to the civil EC135 but carries stub weapon pylons on fuselage sides and may have forward-looking infrared sensors; the fenestron tail rotor is the primary family identification feature.
Specifications
- The Eurocopter EC635 has a length of 12.19 m (40 ft).
- It has a wingspan of 10.2 m (33 ft).
- Its maximum speed is 259 km/h (161 mph).
- Typical crew: 1-2.
Figures are for the representative variant described above; marks differ. See how AircraftIQ sources figures.
History
Eurocopter developed the EC635 to meet export demand for a modern light military helicopter derived from the highly successful civil EC135. The first flight took place in 2001 and the type entered service with several air forces in the mid-2000s. Customers have included Jordan, Switzerland, and South Korea.
Variants
The EC635T1 and T2+ differ primarily in engine variants (Pratt & Whitney Canada PW206 vs Turbomeca Arrius 2B2); weapon fits vary by customer.
Where you'll see it
Operated by the Royal Jordanian Air Force, Swiss Air Force, and Republic of Korea Army among others in light utility and armed scout roles.
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