Airbus has flown the German military’s initial H145M multi-role helicopter for the first time in Donauwörth, Bavaria.
The trial is part of Berlin’s ongoing acquisition of up to 82 H145 systems signed in December 2023.
The event also marked the start of pilot training for the armed forces in preparation for the fleet’s entry into service.
Airbus said that the program’s initial deliveries will be conducted this year, with the entire order amounting to 2.7 billion euros ($2.9 billion) if all options are exercised.
Germany is expected to distribute more than 50 H145s to the army and about five for the special forces under this initiative, the company noted during the award.
The H145 Helicopter
The 43-foot (13-meter) H145 is designed with specialized capabilities to undertake light attack, covert, transport, and search and rescue missions rapidly.
The aircraft is offered with additional integrations to support modern communication systems and coordinate manned-unmanned teaming with drones.
H145 incorporates a seating capacity for up to 10 soldiers and is equipped with rockets, machine guns, and multi-domain missiles.
It is powered by two Turbomeca Arriel engines for a service ceiling of 12,550 feet (3,825 meters) and a maximum speed of (265 kilometers/165 miles per hour).