Defense

Airbus delivers first H145M helicopter to German Armed Forces under major contract

Multi-role military helicopter delivery marks start of largest H145M order to date

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(Photo: Cara Irina Wagner, Airbus Helicopters)

Airbus Helicopters delivered the first of up to 82 H145M helicopters to the German Armed Forces (Bundeswehr) at its Donauwörth facility on Monday, less than a year after the contract signing.

The helicopter, designated by the Bundeswehr as “Leichter Kampfhubschrauber” (light combat helicopter) or LKH, will be stationed at the German Army’s Bückeburg base for training operations. The first combat-configured H145M LKH is scheduled for delivery in 2025.

“We remain a reliable partner of the German Bundeswehr. Delivering the first H145M LKH in less than a year after the contract signature demonstrates our commitment,” said Stefan Thomé, Managing Director of Airbus Helicopters in Germany.

“The H145M LKH will be a true multi-mission asset for the German Armed Forces, supporting their crucial missions,” he added.

The December 2023 contract encompasses 62 firm orders and 20 options, making it the largest H145M order to date. The agreement includes a seven-year support and services package. The German Army will receive 57 helicopters, while five units are allocated to the Luftwaffe’s special forces.

The H145M, powered by twin Turbomeca Arriel 2E engines with full authority digital engine control, features the Helionix digital avionics suite with a 4-axis autopilot. The helicopter can be rapidly reconfigured for various missions, including light attack, special operations, hoisting, and external cargo operations.

All ordered units will be equipped with HForce, Airbus Helicopters’ weapon management system, allowing pilots to train on the same platform used in combat operations. The Bundeswehr currently operates 24 H145 helicopters for special forces and search and rescue missions.

The H145 family has accumulated nearly eight million flight hours globally, with military operators including Hungary, Serbia, Luxembourg, Thailand, Ecuador, and Honduras. Recent orders have come from Cyprus, Belgium, and Brunei.

Written by
Dirk Andrei Salcedo

Dirk is the founder and editor-in-chief of Aviation Updates Philippines (AUP), a platform dedicated to providing the latest news and insights on the aviation industry in the Philippines. With a strong passion for aviation and a background in computer engineering, he manages all aspects of AUP, from website development to content curation.

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