German Military receives initial shipment of 82 H145M helicopters from Airbus
The German Bundeswehr has taken a significant step in modernizing its rotary-wing combat capabilities with the acquisition of up to 82 H145M LKH (Leichter Kampfhubschrauber, or Light Combat Helicopter) helicopters from Airbus Helicopters. This multirole attack helicopter is designed for light combat and versatile mission capabilities, serving roles such as close air support, armed reconnaissance, and battlefield troop support.
The H145M LKH is a modern, agile light combat helicopter tailored to Germany’s needs for a versatile, cost-effective combat and escort helicopter. It boasts key mission capabilities, including multirole attack operations with armaments suited for anti-tank and close combat engagements, and the ability to support ground forces by providing rapid fire support and reconnaissance.
The German Army has ordered 62 units of the H145M LKH, with options for additional units. This decision highlights the Army's focus on enhancing its combat effectiveness in varied operational contexts. The helicopter complements Germany's broader arsenal of anti-tank systems like the Panzerfaust 3 and Spike LR missiles that can also be integrated with such platforms for anti-armor roles.
The first of the ordered H145Ms has been delivered at Airbus Helicopters' Donauwörth site, marking a significant milestone in the partnership between the company and the Bundeswehr. The delivered helicopter is dedicated to training operations and will be used at the German Army's Bückeburg base.
The H145M is equipped with the Helionix digital avionics suite, which includes a high-performance 4-axis autopilot and reduces pilot workload during missions. The standard version of the H145Ms ordered by Germany is equipped with HForce, the weapon management system developed by Airbus Helicopters.
The H145M's missions include training, reconnaissance, special forces operations, and light attack. It is the quietest helicopter in its class, making it an asset for covert operations. The German Armed Forces have named their new H145Ms "Leichter Kampfhubschrauber" (light combat helicopter), or LKH for short.
The German Army will receive 57 helicopters, while the Luftwaffe’s special forces will receive five. The contract includes seven years of support and services for the German Army. The first delivery of an H145M LKH in the light attack role to the German customer is scheduled for 2025, as contracted.
The H145M is powered by two Safran Arriel 2E engines and is fitted with a full authority digital engine control (FADEC). The helicopter's versatility is further underscored by its ability to be reconfigured for various mission capabilities within minutes.
Military operators of the H145 family include Hungary, Serbia, Luxembourg, Thailand, Ecuador, and Honduras. Stefan Thomé, Managing Director of Airbus Helicopters in Germany, stated that the H145M LKH will be a true multi-mission asset for the German Armed Forces. With its acquisition, the Bundeswehr is set to bolster its combat capabilities and adapt to the evolving demands of modern warfare.
The H145M LKH, due for delivery in 2025, is a versatile, multi-mission helicopter designed for various roles such as training, reconnaissance, special forces operations, and light attack, and is equipped with the Helionix digital avionics suite for reduced pilot workload during missions. The German Army has ordered 57 units of the H145M LKH, with each helicopter powered by two Safran Arriel 2E engines and fitted with a full authority digital engine control (FADEC), making it a cost-effective and agile combat and escort helicopter.
With the acquisition of these helicopters, the German Armed Forces can bolster their combat capabilities and adapt to the evolving demands of modern warfare, with key mission capabilities including multirole attack operations with armaments suited for anti-tank and close combat engagements, and the ability to support ground forces by providing rapid fire support and reconnaissance.
