Airbus H145 Helicopters: Ireland’s New Acquisition Plan
Ireland has officially signed a contract to procure four Airbus H145 helicopters, marking a significant upgrade for the Irish Air Corps. This €91.7 million ($95.8 million) deal is poised to deliver the new aircraft by 2027, coinciding with the planned retirement of the remaining two EC135 helicopters currently in service, as reported by The Irish Times.
The H145 helicopters will play a crucial role in training new pilots, preparing them to operate larger tactical systems within Ireland’s national police and security air support service. Beyond training, these helicopters will also be employed for various missions, including intelligence gathering, surveillance, target acquisition, reconnaissance, utility tasks, maritime security, and light attack operations to bolster the capabilities of both army and naval forces.
Government Commitment to Air Corps Enhancement
Defense Minister Micheál Martin highlighted the government’s dedication to strengthening the Air Corps with this investment. As quoted by the Irish Independent, he noted that the recent acquisition of two C295 maritime patrol aircraft over the past 18 months, along with the expected delivery of another C295 military transport aircraft next year, underscores this commitment.
Additionally, Minister Martin pointed out that the new Falcon 6X multi-purpose strategic reach aircraft, for which a contract was signed earlier this month, will further enhance the operational capabilities of the Air Corps.
Technical Specifications of the Airbus H145
The Airbus H145 is an impressive helicopter, measuring 43 feet (13 meters) in length with a wingspan of 36 feet (11 meters). It is powered by a twin Turbomeca engine and boasts a fuel capacity of 1,500 pounds (680 kilograms), making it a reliable option for various missions.
Equipped with Airbus’ advanced HForce weapon suite, the H145 allows operators to integrate sophisticated display, control, tracking, and firing capabilities. This helicopter can be armed with a range of weaponry, including cannons, rockets, machine guns, and multi-domain missiles, enhancing its versatility in operational scenarios.
Operational Capabilities and Performance
In terms of capacity, the H145 can accommodate up to 10 personnel or carry a payload of 3,500 pounds (1,588 kilograms). With a maximum speed of 143 knots (265 kilometers/165 miles per hour) and an operational altitude reaching 12,550 feet (3,825 meters), it is well-suited for a variety of missions.
The combination of speed, payload capacity, and advanced weaponry makes the Airbus H145 a formidable asset for the Irish Air Corps, ensuring they are well-equipped to handle both training and operational demands in the years to come.
