Airbus unveils U145 uncrewed autonomous helicopter for cargo missions

AI-equipped platform is based on best-selling H145 light-twin and should enter service in the early 2030s.

Airbus Helicopters has introduced the U145, an uncrewed version of the H145 light-twin, with the airframer targeting service entry in the early 2030s.

A mock-up of the aircraft will be on display at this week’s ILA Berlin air show.

Although the manufacturer’s US arm is already developing, and has flown, a similar aircraft for the US Marine Corps, the MQ-72C, the U145 is envisaged as an all-European development – a move trailed by the company earlier this year.

“To develop the U145 and its capabilities as a multi-mission UAS [uncrewed aerial system], we will be teaming up with leading autonomous mission partners to further expand the UAS ecosystem in Europe,” says Matthieu Louvot, chief executive of Airbus Helicopters.

The airframer says the U145 will feature a “specialised sensor suite and artificial intelligence for full autonomy”. In addition, the H145’s cockpit will be replaced by a cargo bay, with clamshell doors in the nose.

No details of the partners involved on the programme have been disclosed. Airbus Helicopters is targeting a maiden sortie, with a safety pilot on board, towards the end of 2026.

Initially envisaged as a cargo-delivery platform, the manufacturer also sees potential roles for the 3.8t U145 including as an armed scout, surveillance asset or drone mothership for air-launched effects. Civil applications including firefighting or disaster relief are also contemplated.

Airbus Helicopters has previous experience converting manned aircraft into uncrewed platforms, having based its VSR700 naval drone on the Guimbal Cabri G2.