Airbus Helicopters delivers first H145M to Belgium as fleet order grows to 20

Airbus Helicopters has delivered the first H145M helicopter to Belgium, marking the start of a fleet modernization program for the country’s armed forces and federal police.

The handover took place on June 24, 2026, in Donauworth, Germany, where the aircraft are manufactured. 

The delivery is part of a contract signed in 2024 through the NATO Support and Procurement Agency to supply military helicopters for Belgian defense and law enforcement operations.

A growing order from Belgium

Belgium has also exercised an option for three additional H145M helicopters, bringing its total order to 20 aircraft. The decision reflects confidence in a platform that has become increasingly popular among European militaries.

Thomas Hein, Head of Europe Region at Airbus Helicopters, said Belgium is joining a growing group of nations relying on the H145M.

“This platform has become the definitive European reference for military multi-mission capabilities,” Hein said. “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.”

A versatile platform

The H145M is the military version of the light twin-engine H145, a helicopter family that has accumulated more than 8.5 million flight hours worldwide.

The aircraft can be reconfigured within minutes to perform different missions. In a light attack role, it can carry axial ballistic and guided weapons along with a self-protection system. For special operations, it can be fitted with fast-rappelling equipment. Additional mission packages include hoisting and external cargo capabilities.

The helicopter is designed to integrate into networked combat environments and can team with uncrewed aerial systems through advanced digital connectivity.

What powers the H145M

The H145M is powered by two Safran Arriel 2E engines and features full authority digital engine control. It is equipped with the Helionix digital avionics suite, which includes a four-axis autopilot designed to reduce pilot workload during missions.

Airbus says the H145M has the lowest acoustic footprint in its class, making it the quietest military helicopter of its type.

Who else flies the H145?

The H145 family is used by armed forces and law enforcement agencies around the world.

 The US Army operates nearly 500 helicopters from the family under the designation UH-72 Lakota. Germany has ordered up to 82 H145M helicopters, with deliveries ongoing. Other military operators include Hungary, Serbia, Luxembourg, Thailand, Ecuador, and Honduras.

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