Airbus has delivered the first two of 16 H225M multi-purpose helicopters to the Hungarian Air Force at Szolnok Air Base.
The handover is part of a 2018 contract for the H225Ms to support “Zrinyi 2026,” a decade-long Hungarian armed forces modernization program launched in 2016.
Alongside the aircraft, the air force will receive training and support to sustain the fleet’s operational availability.
Airbus H225M
The H225M has a four-axis autopilot and an advanced avionics platform.
With its large cabin design, the helicopter can carry up to 24 personnel and payloads such as air-to-ground and air-to-surface weaponry and electronic warfare systems.
Furthermore, the vehicle has an all-weather capability supported by night vision goggle compatibility.
‘The Right Choice’
The Hungarian Air Force will use the H225Ms for military transport, special operations, and combat search and rescue missions.
Part of the fleet will be integrated with the HForce weapon management system for commonality with the service’s H145M helicopters.
Meanwhile, flight tests have been conducted to equip the new choppers with a gun pod and rocket launchers.
“I am very happy that we have delivered the first H225Ms to Hungary today,” Airbus Helicopters CEO Bruno Even said.
“The Defence Forces are receiving a combat-proven, multi-role platform, which is the latest version of a very successful helicopter family.”
“Together with the light twin engine H145M, which is already in operation, Hungary now has a modern helicopter fleet that can fly a broad range of military missions, and we are proud that they decided our helicopters were the right choice for their extremely important operations.”