Germany announced receiving the first light-armed reconnaissance twin-turboshaft helicopter, Airbus H145M.
The helicopter will be used for training, while the first operational Airbus H145M is expected to be delivered within 2025. Germany will receive 62 helicopters of the type, while the contract also provides an option for 20 additional helicopters. The H145M was selected to fill the operational gap created by the country's decision not to upgrade its Tiger attack helicopters to the Mk.3 level and retire them in 2032.
The purchase cost of the 62 helicopters plus a seven-year support contract is € 2.1 billion. Of the 62 helicopters, 57 are intended for the Army, while five are for the Special Forces (Air Force). Deliveries are expected to be completed in 2028. It should be noted that the German Army already has 16 H145Ms in service for use by Special Forces and another eight in a search and rescue role.
The U.S. Army uses the same helicopter as UH-72.
