H145M
The battlefield support helicopter
Modern and versatile
The twin-engine H145M offers the crucial capability of delivering troops and materials quickly with minimum delay, while also rapidly applying firepower to neutralize or destroy opposing forces. Additionally, it offers support for friendly forces in combat, and is ideal for acquiring, interpreting and exploiting crucial information.
This high-performance, versatile, rugged and reliable helicopter can be equipped with a large range of equipment and provides outstanding mission flexibility for military operators.
Considered as the reference in its civil version for law enforcement agencies, the H145M version also has demonstrated its capacity in military operations – including service with the U.S. Army, which operates the UH-72A and UH-72B Lakota variants.
Superior performance in multi-role missions
A key feature of the H145M is the wide range of available optional mission equipment packages that can be rapidly installed and removed, based on the mission requirements. Within a few minutes, the aircraft can be reconfigured from troop transport with seats to a search & rescue mission with rescue hoist and stretchers, or as an armed helicopter with a set of weapons and ballistic protection.
The H145M’s power, range, endurance and payload capability provide many configuration options, especially when operating in sand and dust, and in high and hot conditions at altitudes of 6,000 feet and temperatures of 95°F/35°C.
Mission readiness of the H145M is enhanced by the rotorcraft’s two Safran Arriel 2E turboshaft engines with dual-channel full authority digital engine controls (FADEC) and an upgraded transmission.
HForce for firepower and accuracy
The H145M can be equipped with Airbus’ HForce weapons system – an incremental, modular and cost-efficient weapon system that can be used on any military version of Airbus’ civil helicopter range (H125M, H145M and H225M).
Three different packages increase the aircraft’s capability, from ballistic firing through helmet-mounted display to ballistic firing through an electro-optical system (EOS), or the firing of guided weapons.
Rugged and high-tech
The H145M’s compact airframe provides a low profile, enhanced by the helicopter’s agility in combat flight and its designed-in system redundancy.
Contributing to the survivability are self-sealing fuel tanks and ballistic protection, along with crashworthiness designed into the airframe and seats.
The electronic warfare system and decoy system bring an extra level of protection in high-threat environments.
The H145M is equipped with a modern digital glass cockpit that incorporates Airbus’ advanced Helionix® avionics suite, and is night vision goggle-compatible. The 4-axis digital autopilot drastically reduces pilot workload.
Enhancements include an upgraded transmission system and the incorporation of Airbus’ signature Fenestron® shrouded tail rotor for improved anti-torque control.
In service with the U.S. Army as a light utility helicopter, the UH-72A Lakota version has demonstrated a high level of reliability, with an availability rate of more than 90%.
UH-72 Lakota: Proven for the U.S. Army
The Lakota is a variant of the technologically-advanced and operationally-proven H145 helicopter, which is used worldwide for: law enforcement, emergency medical transportation, search and rescue, offshore and utility operations, and corporate transportation.
The UH-72 Lakota has proven itself as a key platform for the U.S. Army, Navy, and National Guard in their mission of protecting and serving communities across America. Selected in June 2006 following a rigorous evaluation, it combines operational capability, reliability and affordability, fulfilling all of the Army's requirements for speed, range, endurance and overall performance. As an in-production helicopter with FAA IFR certification, the UH-72 meets the Army's commercial off-the-shelf (COTS) acquisition strategy.
The incorporation of new COTS technologies, combined with the UH-72's operational capabilities, result in an aircraft that is exceptionally easy and affordable to operate and maintain. Extensive use of new, lightweight manufacturing materials and extensive system modularity simplifies maintenance, reducing lifetime ownership costs and logistics requirements.
Topics in focus
Related news
In the spotlight
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Press releases HelicoptersAirbus delivers first of up to 82 H145M helicopters to the German Armed Forces
Less than a year after the contract was signed, Airbus Helicopters has delivered the first of up to 82 H145Ms ordered by Germany at its Donauwörth site. -
Press releases HelicoptersAirbus to lead NATO Next Generation Rotorcraft Capability concept study
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