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Germany is gearing up to receive the first of its 62 H145M helicopters from Airbus Helicopters, with a delivery schedule set for the end of this year. As part of the agreement, Germany also has the option to purchase an additional 20 helicopters.
The European company shared a series of images showcasing the helicopter during a visit by Markus Faber, President of the Defense Committee of the German Parliament [Bundestag], to their manufacturing plant located in Donauwörth.
The German Air Force is set to replace its Tiger helicopters with the H145M, according to German politicians and military statements. The primary reason lies in the Tiger’s persistent technical issues, which have led to low operational readiness. Despite ongoing maintenance efforts, the German defense ministry notes these challenges remain, prompting the decision to phase out the Tigers by 2032. Consequently, the number of operational Tigers has already decreased.
Economic factors also play a significant role in this decision. Maintaining the aging Tiger fleet has become increasingly costly, and the Ministry determined that transitioning to the more reliable and versatile H145M would be more cost-effective. The Airbus H145M was chosen due to its proven track record in reliability and flexibility across various missions, including light fire support and reconnaissance. The German armed forces have already garnered positive experiences with this model within their special operations forces, making the H145M a logical choice for broader military integration.
The new fleet for the Bundeswehr, or German armed forces, will come fully equipped with the HForce weapon system. This advanced technology will transform these helicopters into versatile combat platforms, capable of deploying rockets, laser-guided missiles, cannons, and machine guns—making them a formidable force in attack scenarios.
Military experts have different views on the Airbus H145M helicopter’s combat capabilities, noting both its strengths and areas where it could improve.
Despite its versatility, there are some concerns about its direct combat effectiveness. While the H145M excels in special operations and support roles, some experts believe it may fall short in terms of firepower and armor compared to the larger Tiger helicopters, especially in high-intensity conflict scenarios. The emphasis on modularity and multi-role capabilities might compromise its specialized combat efficiency, which is crucial during direct engagements.
Developed by Airbus Helicopters, the Airbus H145M is a highly versatile military helicopter. This twin-engine, multi-role aircraft is designed for a range of missions, including troop transport, medical evacuation, search and rescue, and armed reconnaissance. Renowned for its agility, advanced avionics, and ability to operate in challenging environments, the H145M stands out as a robust and adaptable platform.
The propulsion system of the H145M consists of two Safran Arriel 2E turboshaft engines. These engines provide a maximum takeoff power of 894 shaft horsepower each, enabling the helicopter to achieve a maximum speed of approximately 268 kilometers per hour [167 miles per hour] and a range of around 650 kilometers [404 miles].
The H145M is equipped with advanced fire control systems to enhance its combat capabilities. These systems include a helmet-mounted sight and display [HMSD] for the pilot, which allows for hands-free targeting and weapon aiming. Additionally, the helicopter can be fitted with an electro-optical/infrared [EO/IR] sensor turret for target acquisition and tracking.
The radar capabilities of the H145M are primarily focused on situational awareness and navigation. It can be equipped with weather radar and terrain avoidance systems, which help pilots navigate safely in adverse conditions. While the H145M is not typically outfitted with long-range radar systems, its sensor suite provides excellent short to medium-range detection and tracking capabilities.
The armament options for the H145M are diverse, allowing it to be configured for various mission profiles. It can be equipped with machine guns, rocket pods, and guided missiles. Common configurations include the mounting of 12.7 mm or 7.62 mm machine guns on external weapon stations, as well as the integration of air-to-ground missiles such as the AGM-114 Hellfire or laser-guided rockets for precision strikes.
BULGARIAN MILITARY