Germany receives new H145M for Bundeswehr
The German armed forces (Bundeswehr) have received delivery of the first H145M from a contract for up to 82 helicopters of that type
The multi-role helicopter was delivered to the Bundeswehr’s facility in Donauwörth. It will be used for training operations, and will be stationed at the German Army’s base in Bückeburg, Lower Saxony. The next delivery of an H145M is due in 2025.
The new H145Ms are in a “light combat helicopter” configuration, designed for a range of missions including training, reconnaissance, special forces operations, and light attack.
However, Airbus said the H145M can be reconfigured “within minutes” to be equipped with hoisting and external cargo capabilities. The company highlighted that the Bundeswehr “already operates 24 H145 helicopters for special forces operations and search and rescue missions”.
The delivery follows the signing of a contract in December 2023 that covers both a firm order for 62 H145Ms and options for 20 more, as well as seven years of support and services. The majority (57) of the initial order of rotorcraft will be used by the German Army, with an additional five going to the Luftwaffe’s special forces.
The German government also recently signed a contract for up to 44 H225s on behalf of the Federal Police (Bundespolizei).
Oliver Cuenca
Oliver Cuenca is a Junior Editor at the Voyageur Group. He was previously a News and Features Journalist for the rail magazine IRJ until 2021, and studied MA Magazine Journalism at Cardiff University. His favourite helicopter is the AW169 – the workhorse of the UK air ambulance sector! He also led the creation of Waypoint: The AirMed&Rescue podcast, serving as its Production Editor and co-host.