Airbus Helicopters has delivered the first H145M helicopter to the Kingdom of Belgium, marking a major milestone in the modernisation of the nation’s defence and security capabilities. The aircraft is part of a wider procurement contract signed in 2024 via the NATO Support and Procurement Agency (NSPA) to equip both the Belgian armed forces and the Federal Police.
Highlighting the growing momentum of the programme, Belgium has also recently exercised its option for three additional H145M helicopters, bringing the nation’s total fleet on order to 20 aircraft.
The H145M is a multi-role military helicopter that provides a broad range of mission capabilities. Within minutes, the helicopter can be reconfigured from a light attack role with axial ballistic and guided weapons and a state-of-the-art self-protection system into a special operations version with fast-rappelling equipment. The comprehensive mission packages include hoisting and external cargo capabilities. Its ability to seamlessly integrate into networked combat and team with uncrewed aerial systems, backed by advanced digital connectivity, makes it the most capable helicopter in its class.
Powered by two Safran Arriel 2E engines, the H145M is fitted with a full authority digital engine control (FADEC). In addition, the helicopter is equipped with the Helionix digital avionics suite which, alongside innovative flight data management, includes a high-performance 4-axis autopilot, reducing pilot workload during missions. Its particularly low acoustic footprint makes the H145M the quietest helicopter in its class.
Thomas Hein, Head of Europe Region at Airbus Helicopters, said: “We are proud to celebrate this first delivery to Belgium and are deeply honoured that they are joining a rapidly growing community of European nations that trust the H145M for their most critical operations. This platform has become the definitive European reference for military multi-mission capabilities. Belgium’s decision to extend their fleet to 20 aircraft is a powerful testament to the deep trust placed in our team and the H145M’s ability to meet today’s evolving security challenges.”
