Login
iscover
Airbus Australia Pacific has announced that it would offer the H145M multi-role helicopter to the Commonwealth government to support Australian Special Forces.
To continue reading the rest of this article, please log in.
Create free account to get unlimited news articles and more!
The H145M is a medium-sized military multi-role helicopter capable of performing a wide spectrum of missions with a common platform, from transport, search and rescue (SAR) and medevac to armed scout.
This high-performance, versatile, rugged and reliable helicopter can be equipped with a large range of equipment and provides outstanding mission flexibility to military operators.
Airbus Australia Pacific managing director Andrew Mathewson said, "The Airbus H145M helicopter is the military version of the H145 – the most advanced member of Airbus’ multi-purpose twin-engine category. It is based on a commercial off-the-shelf (COTS) platform with military-specific modifications and is an operationally proven, affordable and low-risk option for Australia."
The H145M platform is capable of supporting a number of different roles, including light attack, transport and utility, intelligence, surveillance and reconnaissance (ISR), medical and casualty evacuation, and maritime security. In addition, the H145M presents a number of tactical and strategic strengths for Australian special forces operators, including:
- Excellent access and cabin space;
- Compact footprint for maximum agility;
- Excellent hot and high flight performance;
- Airbus Helionix cockpit, which reduces pilot workload and allows greater situational awareness;
- High availability, reliable and robust systems, a small logistic footprint, proven by operations in similar configuration, roles and environment; and
- High rotor clearance and shrouded Fenestron for operations close to obstacles.
"The Airbus Australia Pacific response included selected industry partners and the provision of training, maintenance, logistics and engineering activities. A comprehensive transfer of technology and skills will make Airbus Australia Pacific a regional centre able to proactively support Australian operational needs, and export this knowledge back into the wider H145M community," Mathewson explained.
Defence is planning to acquire a fleet of up to 16 light helicopters to enhance the aviation capability of Australian Special Operations Forces through increased mobility, direct air support and ISR as part of LAND 2097 Phase 4.
The Defence request for tender (RFT) established that the helicopter should be a proven design (already in service either in commercial or military capacities), optimised for operating in dense urban environments and capable of rapid deployment by air transport in the Royal Australian Air Force's C-17 Globemaster strategic airlifters.
The successful helicopters are intended for use by the Australian Army’s 6th Aviation Regiment, based at Holsworthy, south of Sydney, and will complement a squadron of larger MRH-90 Taipan helicopters, more information regarding the program, including tender applications, is available here.
