Paris Air Show 2023: Airbus Helicopters showcases H145M future combat helicopter for Belgian Army.

PARIS, France, June 19, 2023 — At Paris Air Show 2023, Airbus Helicopters showcases its comprehensive range of military helicopters, featuring the H145M, which has been recently selected by the Belgian army as the replacement for their retiring NH90 TTH and Agusta A109 armed helicopters.
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Airbus Helicopter showcases H145M, the future combat helicopter of the Belgian army. (Picture source Army Recognition)

The H145M is a high-performing, versatile, rugged, and dependable multirole helicopter with an exceptional ability to be tailored as a troop transport or attack helicopter. This agility, combined with a diverse set of combat equipment and weapon options, empowers it to execute a broad scope of missions. With its ability to rapidly deliver troops and supplies, apply quick-fire power, support friendly forces, and gather, interpret, and utilize information, the H145M is a pivotal asset to military operations.

The H145M's capabilities have seen it become a benchmark for law enforcement organizations and military services in its civilian form, and it currently serves the US Army as the UH-72A Lakota.

Unique to the H145M is its array of optional mission equipment packages, which can be swiftly installed or removed according to mission requirements. With quick adaptability, the aircraft can transform from a troop transport to a search and rescue operation to an armed helicopter with weaponry and ballistic protection.

The aircraft excels in diverse deployment scenarios, particularly in challenging sand, dust, and high-altitude environments. Equipped with twin Safran Arriel 2E engines with dual-channel FADEC and enhanced transmission, the H145M demonstrates impressive power, range, endurance, and payload capability.

Airbus also offers the HForce weapons system as an option for the H145M. This versatile, modular, and cost-efficient weapon system is designed for light attack missions, perfect for defense agencies requiring additional firepower or complementing their existing fleet of specialized attack helicopters.

The H145M's compact frame enhances its low profile, with survivability features including self-sealing fuel tanks, ballistic protection, and an infrared suppressor. For protection in high-risk environments, it is equipped with an electronic warfare system and chaff/flare dispensers.

The digital glass cockpit of the H145M, featuring Airbus' advanced Helionix® avionics suite, is night-vision goggle-compatible and includes a 4-axis digital autopilot, significantly easing the pilot workload. The system's enhancements include an improved transmission system and the incorporation of Airbus' signature Fenestron® shrouded tail rotor for better anti-torque control.

The H145M's UH-72A Lakota variant, serving as the US Army's light utility helicopter, has maintained an impressive availability rate of over 90%.