Belgium has taken delivery of its first H145M military helicopter from Airbus as part of a broader effort to modernize its armed forces and security capabilities.
The helicopter is the first of 17 H145M aircraft ordered under a contract signed in June 2024 through the NATO Support and Procurement Agency for service with the Belgian Armed Forces and Federal Police. Belgium subsequently increased the procurement by three additional helicopters, expanding the future fleet to 20 aircraft.
The acquisition places Belgium among several European nations operating the H145M platform, including Germany, Hungary, and Serbia, reflecting the growing adoption of the aircraft across the continent.
The H145M represents the military version of Airbus’ H145 helicopter family, which includes variants used for both military and non-combat missions worldwide, such as the US Army’s UH-72 Lakota and the British Army’s Jupiter HC Mk2.
Engineered for operational flexibility, the H145M features advanced digital networking capabilities that enable integration into connected battlefield environments and coordination with unmanned systems. Its modular mission equipment package allows the aircraft to be rapidly adapted for a wide range of roles, including special operations, light attack missions, medical evacuation, and search-and-rescue operations.
Powered by twin Safran Arriel 2E engines with full authority digital engine control, the helicopter incorporates Airbus’ Helionix avionics architecture and maintains a low acoustic footprint. The aircraft is capable of reaching speeds of up to 268 kilometers per hour and has a maximum operational range of approximately 663 kilometers.
