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Indonesian Air Force Orders Four Airbus H145 Helicopters.
The Indonesian Air Force has recently taken an important step in its training modernization program by ordering four Airbus H145 helicopters. This announcement was made at the Bali International Airshow, which is being held from September 18 to 21, marking a new collaboration between Indonesia and Airbus Helicopters.
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Airbus H145 Helicopter (Picture source: Airbus)
As part of this agreement, Airbus will deliver the five-blade H145 helicopters to PT Dirgantara Indonesia (PTDI), the Indonesian company responsible for reassembly, mission equipment completion, and customization work at its facilities in Bandung. Once these stages are completed, the helicopters will be handed over to the Indonesian Air Force.
The H145s will be used for military training missions and light search and rescue operations, thus enhancing the multi-mission capabilities of the Indonesian Air Force. Thanks to their versatility and proven performance, the H145 helicopters represent an essential asset for the country's military aviation while demonstrating Indonesia's ongoing commitment to modernizing its armed forces.
The collaboration between Airbus Helicopters and Indonesia is part of a lasting relationship of nearly 50 years, dating back to 1976 when PTDI first obtained a production license for the NBO-105 helicopter. Since then, PTDI has become a key player in the production of components for Airbus, notably the rear fuselage and the main airframe of the H225.
In 2017, the two companies strengthened their cooperation by expanding their partnership to include support and maintenance services for the Indonesian Army's helicopter fleet. Recently, Airbus and PTDI have further deepened their collaboration to explore the development of aerostructure production, helicopter finishing, and the enhancement of local maintenance, repair, and overhaul capabilities.
The version ordered by the Indonesian Air Force is equipped with an innovative five-blade rotor, a major improvement that increases the helicopter's payload by 150 kg. The new bearingless main rotor simplifies maintenance operations, increasing reliability and flight comfort for both crew and passengers.
The H145 is one of Airbus's most popular models, with more than 1,700 helicopters of this family in service worldwide, totaling over 7.9 million flight hours. In addition to its multi-mission capabilities, the H145 is widely used by armed forces around the world, including the U.S. Army, British Armed Forces, and soon the German Army, for military personnel training.
The H145 is a versatile twin-engine helicopter powered by Safran Arriel 2E engines, delivering a maximum power of 894 kW (1,200 hp). It features the Helionix avionics suite with a 4-axis autopilot, enhancing both safety and maneuverability. The H145 can achieve a cruising speed of 240 km/h and has a maximum range of up to 650 km, making it suitable for various missions such as transport, search and rescue, and medical evacuation. Its new five-blade main rotor increases the payload capacity by 150 kg, allowing a total lift capacity of over 3.7 tons.
The H145 has a spacious and modular cabin, capable of accommodating up to 10 passengers or being configured for specialized roles, such as emergency medical services. The bearingless main rotor design reduces maintenance costs and improves flight stability. Additionally, the helicopter is equipped with a Full Authority Digital Engine Control (FADEC) system that optimizes engine performance. With its reinforced landing gear and ability to operate in demanding environments, the H145 is a reliable aircraft for both civilian and military operations.