The Eurocopter EC665 is a unique attack helicopter manufactured in Europe that is known as Tiger or Tigre in France and Spain. Since its entry into service in 2003, it has become the main vehicle of this type for the ground forces of Germany, France, Spain and Australia.
Its development dates back to 1984 when France and Germany stated their need for an advanced multipurpose battle helicopter. Due to the initial costs of the project, it was canceled in 1986, but in 1987 it was relaunched, and in 1989 the production of the first prototypes was finally contracted. Spain would join a little later but would provide its own systems such as combat, communications, target acquisition and avionics among many others.
This would finally make the Tigre the first helicopter of its type with the greatest participation of Spanish companies. In September 2003, Spain ordered a total of 24 Tigre HAD helicopters for support and destruction tasks, which were delivered in 2008.
Without a doubt, the Tiger is a more than fearsome aerial combat platform. It is armed with a 30mm automatic cannon, rocket launchers, anti-tank and air-to-air missiles. In addition, it has great protection, being capable of resisting impacts from 23mm caliber projectiles. It requires two pilots, one dedicated mainly to navigation and the second to weapons, both have helmets equipped with integrated combat visors.
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Until recently, only the French Tigers have participated in actual combat operations. They have done so in the Afghanistan theater of operations, integrated into NATO forces, where they demonstrated 90% availability in a more than demanding terrain.
Since their entry into service, the Spanish Tigers have been waiting for the moment to go into action. They have recently finally had their long-awaited opportunity, after several of them were sent to Afghanistan to cover the withdrawal of Spanish troops stationed there. Considered as the Airmobile Forces of the Army, better known by the acronym FAMET, no one doubts that when the time comes they will demonstrate their worth and combat power.