Chilean Air Force Eyes Airbus H145M and H125M Light Combat Helicopters.

According to an article published by the Spanish newspaper Infodefensa on August 20, 2024, Airbus Helicopters is advancing its position by offering its H145M and H125M models to replace the old Bell UH-1H and other light helicopters of the Chilean Air Force.

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Airbus H125M Light Combat Helicopter (Picture source: Airbus)

The Chilean Air Force (FACh) has expressed interest in the H125 through an international request for information (RFI) as part of the Pantera project, aimed at replacing its fleet of Bell UH-1H helicopters. Specific requirements include the ability to perform search and rescue missions, as well as transport operations under both day and night conditions. There is also a focus on integrating modern technologies such as glass cockpits and equipment compatible with night vision goggles.

The popularity of the H125 is its adoption by the Carabineros and the Chilean Navy, which have recently acquired several units for various missions, further confirming confidence in Airbus' model. Additionally, the Carabineros of Chile have also acquired an Airbus H145 for the Air Section of Arica and Parinacota.

The Airbus H125M is a single-engine helicopter designed to meet a variety of demanding military missions, such as training, tactical transport, intelligence, surveillance, target acquisition, and armed reconnaissance. Powered by Safran's Arriel 2D turboshaft engine, coupled with a dual-channel full authority digital engine control (FADEC) system, the H125M offers remarkable power and efficiency suited for combat environments. Its small profile, combined with composite materials and infrared-reflective paint, gives it a reduced radar signature, enhancing its stealth on the battlefield.

The H125M's modularity allows it to adapt to different configurations, including the integration of Airbus' HForce weapon system, a modular and cost-effective system that can be used across Airbus' range of military helicopters derived from civilian models. Capable of operating in hot and high-altitude environments, the H125M holds the world altitude record for landing on Mount Everest at 8,848 meters. It also benefits from the exceptional handling and easy-to-fly characteristics of Airbus' Ecureuil family, offering enhanced flight safety for pilots through Airbus' Vehicle and Engine Multifunction Display (VEMD), which significantly reduces crew workload.

As a reminder, as mentioned by the French Ministry of Economy, Finance, and Industrial and Digital Sovereignty in one of its reports, Airbus Helicopters has established one of its three bases in Latin America in Chile, covering the Southern Cone markets (Chile/Argentina/Uruguay/Paraguay/Peru). It is the only helicopter manufacturer with an assembly and maintenance workshop in Chile. In 2022, an agreement was signed with the Chilean helicopter transport company Ecocopter, which operates an Airbus fleet, to collaborate on launching urban air mobility services.

The H145M, a light twin-engine helicopter, is highlighted for its versatility and efficiency, especially in missions that require both high payload capacity and strong performance in challenging climatic and topographical conditions. "We have sold more than 500 units of the H145 to replace the UH in the United States. The model proves its value through its versatility, competitive cost, and exceptional performance as a multipurpose platform," explained Mr. Gout.

Equipped with two Safran Arriel 2E turboshaft engines, the aircraft benefits from a full authority digital engine control (FADEC) system with dual channels, optimizing engine efficiency and responsiveness in the most demanding conditions. This configuration allows the H145M to operate effectively at altitudes of 6,000 feet and temperatures up to 35°C, while maintaining a high payload capacity. The helicopter's upgraded transmission system ensures increased robustness, particularly necessary during operations in difficult environments such as sand and dust.

Regarding armament, the H145M can be equipped with Airbus' HForce weapon system, which offers exceptional modularity and adaptability through three different configurations, enhancing the aircraft's capabilities from basic ballistic firing to the use of advanced electro-optical systems for guided munitions. The helicopter's architecture is designed to facilitate rapid reconfiguration between various roles, such as troop transport, search and rescue missions, or armed operations, thus offering unparalleled operational flexibility. This agility is complemented by a modern glass cockpit and Airbus' Helionix® avionics system, which significantly reduces pilot workload while increasing mission safety.

Airbus H145M Light Combat Helicopter (Picture source: Airbus)