The Bundeswehr has named the aircraft the “Leichter Kampfhubschrauber” (Light Combat Helicopter), or LKH. The H145M is designed for a wide range of missions, including training, reconnaissance, special forces operations, and light attack.
“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. The H145M LKH will be a true multi-mission asset for the German Armed Forces, supporting their crucial missions,” said Stefan Thomé, Managing Director of Airbus Helicopters in Germany.
The Airbus #H145M is a multi-role military helicopter that can perform training, troop transport, search and rescue, special forces and light attack, amongst other operations. Here’s a look at its comprehensive mission capabilities! 🪖 🚁 #MakingMissionsPossible pic.twitter.com/GhGwp0jkF2
— Airbus Helicopters (@AirbusHeli) November 18, 2024
The first helicopter will be used for training operations at the German Army’s base in Bückeburg. The first delivery of an operational H145M LKH configured for light attack is scheduled for 2025, as outlined in the contract. Training for Bundeswehr pilots began in August 2023 to ensure readiness.
The contract, signed in December 2023, includes 62 confirmed orders and an option for an additional 20 aircraft, making it the largest order ever for the H145M model and its HForce weapon management system. The agreement also includes a seven-year support and services package. Of the total helicopters ordered, 57 are allocated to the German Army, while five will go to the Luftwaffe’s special forces.
The H145M is a multi-role military helicopter known for its flexibility and adaptability. It can be reconfigured for various tasks, from light attack missions equipped with guided and ballistic weapons to special operations with fast-rope equipment. Additional mission capabilities include hoisting and external cargo transport.
All H145Ms ordered by Germany are equipped with Airbus’s HForce weapon management system, which enables consistent training on the same type of helicopter used for operations. This approach streamlines pilot preparation and eliminates the need for separate platforms for training and missions.
The H145M is based on Airbus’s proven H145 civilian helicopter, which has accumulated nearly eight million flight hours globally. It is widely used for demanding missions by armed and law enforcement forces worldwide. Germany currently operates 24 H145 helicopters for special forces operations and search and rescue missions, while the US Army employs nearly 500 under the designation UH-72 Lakota.
Other military users of the H145 family include Hungary, Serbia, and Thailand, with recent orders from Belgium, Brunei, and Cyprus. Powered by two Turbomeca Arriel 2E engines and equipped with Helionix digital avionics, the H145M offers advanced capabilities such as a high-performance autopilot and reduced acoustic signature, making it the quietest helicopter in its class.
Source: Airbus press release.
