The Federal Republic of Germany has decided to strengthen its military air capabilities with a significant increase in its helicopter fleet. Germany has exercised its option to procure 20 additional H145M light attack helicopters (LKH) from Airbus Helicopters, which were part of a framework agreement signed in December 2023.
With this decision, the total number of H145M helicopters ordered increases to 82. This step underscores the confidence in the performance and multi-role capabilities of the H145M, which will play a central role in the German Armed Forces' future training, reconnaissance, and special operations missions. The first aircraft was delivered to Germany in November 2024, less than a year after the contract was signed.
Scope and distribution of the new helicopters
The original contract covered the procurement of a fixed number of helicopters as well as an option for additional aircraft, which has now been exercised. The total fleet of 82 helicopters will be distributed between two branches of the German Armed Forces:
- Army: The largest tranche will go to the German Army, which will receive a total of 72 helicopters. There, the H145Ms will primarily take over the role of the light attack helicopter (LKH), replacing older models, including the already decommissioned BO-105s, and filling capability gaps until the next generation of attack helicopters is available.
- Luftwaffe: The Air Force's special forces will receive ten helicopters. The H145Ms are ideally suited for special operations and will supplement or replace the H145 LuHSK (Airborne Support Group Special Forces) helicopters already in service.
Stefan Thomé, Managing Director of Airbus Helicopters in Germany, commented on the order: “We are honored and proud that Germany has decided to order 20 more H145M LKH helicopters. This further commitment from one of our home countries is a strong sign of confidence in the exceptional performance and multi-role capabilities of the H145M.” The rapid initial delivery in November 2024 also demonstrates the manufacturer’s production capability and adherence to schedule.
The multi-roll capability of the H145M
The H145M is the military version of the proven, light twin-engine H145 helicopter. Its most important feature is its high modularity and rapid adaptability for different operational profiles.
Within a very short time, the helicopter can be reconfigured from a light assault role to a special operations version. In the assault role, the H145M can be equipped with axial ballistic and guided weapons, as well as a modern self-protection system. For special operations, the aircraft can be fitted with fast-rappelling equipment for rapid troop deployment. Furthermore, the comprehensive mission packages include external cargo handling and hoisting capabilities, highlighting the platform's versatility.
The H145M is powered by two Safran Arriel 2E engines equipped with a fully digital engine control unit (FADEC). It also features the Helionix digital avionics suite, which includes advanced flight data management and a powerful 4-axis autopilot. This technology significantly reduces pilot workload and enhances safety during complex missions. Another key operational feature is its exceptionally low acoustic footprint, making the H145M the quietest helicopter in its class – a crucial advantage for covert reconnaissance and special operations.
International reach and proven platform
Germany's decision is based on its extensive global experience with the H145 family. The global H145 family fleet has already accumulated more than eight million flight hours, demonstrating the maturity and reliability of the platform.
The German Armed Forces already operate H145 helicopters, which are successfully used by special forces and in search and rescue (SAR) missions. The widespread acceptance of the model is also evident in other major armed forces: The US Army operates nearly 500 helicopters of the H145 family under the designation UH-72 Lakota, which have accumulated more than 1,5 million flight hours.
Other military operators of the H145 type include Hungary, Serbia, Luxembourg, Thailand, Ecuador, Honduras, and Cyprus. The platform continues to be in strong international demand: recent orders include 17 aircraft from Belgium, six from Brunei, and four from Ireland. This international proliferation speaks to the aircraft's flexibility in adapting to diverse climatic conditions and operational requirements. Germany's decision to exercise its option underscores the importance of the H145M as a standard solution for light, multi-role military helicopters in many Western and allied armed forces.
Strengthening the European defense industry
The order is relevant not only from a military perspective but also from an industrial policy standpoint. Airbus Helicopters, with its German roots, benefits from this major order from one of its home countries. Such orders stabilize production lines in Germany and secure important expertise and jobs in the European defense industry.
The procurement of the H145M is in line with the general strengthening of the German Armed Forces and the modernization of their equipment. The helicopter not only replaces outdated models but also provides the necessary capabilities to meet current and future requirements for military flexibility and interoperability, particularly within the framework of NATO and European partners. The delivery of the 82 aircraft will significantly improve the airborne reconnaissance and support capabilities of the German Armed Forces, thereby contributing to the fulfillment of both national and international obligations.