First H145M Delivered to the German Armed Forces: A Major Step in Multi-Role Helicopter Operations

Airbus Helicopters has delivered the first of up to 82 H145Ms to the German Armed Forces, less than a year after the contract was signed. The H145Ms, named “Leichter Kampfhubschrauber” (LKH), will be used for a variety of missions including training, reconnaissance, special forces operations, and light attack. The first aircraft is dedicated to training and will be stationed at the German Army’s Bückeburg base. The delivery of the light attack version is expected in 2025. This contract, the largest ever for the H145M, includes comprehensive support and services for seven years.

The H145M is a versatile, multi-role military helicopter designed for a wide range of missions. It features an advanced weapon management system, HForce, and can quickly be reconfigured for different roles, from light attack to special operations, including hoisting and external cargo capabilities. It can also be fitted with a range of guided weapons and self-protection systems for operational use. The H145M will allow the Bundeswehr to train its pilots on the same type of helicopter used in operations, cutting down on type transfer costs and ensuring high levels of expertise.

The H145M is powered by two Turbomeca Arriel 2E engines, with full authority digital engine control (FADEC) and the Helionix digital avionics suite. The suite includes a four-axis autopilot to reduce pilot workload. With an especially quiet acoustic profile, the H145M is considered the quietest helicopter in its class. The H145 family has accumulated nearly eight million flight hours globally and is already in service with several countries, including the US Army and Hungary, among others.

The latest order for the H145M from the Bundeswehr, which includes 62 firm orders and 20 options, is a significant expansion of the helicopter’s presence in the military sector.