Greek Cyprus has received its first Airbus H145M armed light helicopter, fitted with laser-guided 70 mm rockets and Israeli SPIKE ER2 anti-tank missiles.
The first of the H145M lightweight helicopters in armed configuration has been delivered to the Greek Cyprus Air Command. Six H145M helicopters with an option for another six units will replace the fleet of 11 Russian Mi-35 Hind attack/transport helicopters.
While Mi-35 has a higher firepower and extra troop transport capability, the lack of modernisation and political alignment of Greek Cyprus shifting towards European countries (Most notably France and Germany) and Israel in military equipment can be said to play a major role in acquiring a smaller but more modern helicopter for close air support.
The deal, worth $147 million, includes the weaponry. The loan will be paid back in instalments by 2026. The H145M is designed as H145 for civilian service and developed for mainly African countries for low budget solutions as H145M.
The main armaments, SPIKE ER2 and laser-guided rockets, have been tested from the helicopter which has two hardpoints for armament.
Between two to four SPIKE ER2 missiles with a range of nine kilometres can be carried, while nine to 18 70 mm guided rockets can be carried. It is believed that the guided rockets are FZ275 LGR of Thales.
Airbus H145M
H145M is the armed configuration of the H145 lightweight helicopter, fitted with the HForce fire control system that accepts a variety of weaponry and an EO/IR system.
H145’s weapon options include guided/unguided rockets, anti-tank missiles, and gun pods of different calibres.
The helicopter with a ducted tail rotor uses two Safran Arriel 2E turboshaft engines, providing a total power of 1688 shp.
Author: Kaan Azman
Editor: Özgür Ekşi
