Ireland Orders Four Airbus H145M Helicopters

Airbus Helicopters has signed a contract with the Republic of Ireland Department of Defence for the acquisition of four H145M helicopters.

The H145M helicopters will enhance the operational capabilities of the Irish Air Corps across a range of defense and security tasks. According to Lieutenant General Seán Clancy, Chief of Staff of the Irish Defence Forces, the new helicopters will support the Army, Naval Service, and Special Operations Forces in their operations.

The H145M is the military variant of the twin-engine H145 helicopter. It includes the HForce weapon management system, enabling it to carry weapons such as machine guns, rockets, and missiles if required. The aircraft is equipped with Helionix digital avionics and a 4-axis autopilot to assist with mission operations.

The helicopter’s design includes a five-bladed bearingless main rotor for improved performance and a low acoustic footprint.