Defense & Military
Germany Expands Airbus H145M Fleet to 82 Units by 2028
Germany orders 20 additional Airbus H145M helicopters, boosting its fleet to 82 units replacing the Tiger attack helicopter by 2028.
This article is based on an official press release from Airbus.
Germany has officially exercised an option to acquire 20 additional Airbus H145M helicopters, bringing the total volume of its light combat helicopter program to 82 aircraft. According to an announcement from Airbus, this move finalizes the framework contract originally signed in December 2023, marking a significant step in the Bundeswehr’s modernization efforts.
The additional rotorcraft are designated as “Leichter Kampfhubschrauber” (LKH), or Light Combat Helicopters. They are intended to serve as a critical “bridge solution” for the German armed forces, replacing the troubled Tiger attack helicopter fleet which is currently being phased out. Deliveries for the program are already underway, with the first units handed over in November 2024.
This procurement underscores the rapid pace of Germany’s “Zeitenwende” defense policy. By converting a commercially successful platform into a militarized asset, the Bundeswehr aims to restore operational readiness and combat capability on an accelerated timeline, with all 82 units expected to be delivered by 2028.
The execution of this option completes the acquisition structure established two years ago. The original agreement included a firm order for 62 helicopters with an option for 20 more, which has now been fully realized. According to program details, the fleet will be divided between two branches of the German armed forces:
Stefan Thomé, Managing Director of Airbus Helicopters in Germany, highlighted the significance of the order in a company statement:
“We are honoured and proud that Germany has decided to order 20 additional H145M LKH helicopters. This further commitment by one of our home countries is a powerful sign of trust in the H145M’s exceptional performance and multi-role capabilities.”
The H145M LKH is a militarized derivative of the twin-engine H145 civil helicopter, heavily customized for the battlefield. Central to its combat utility is the HForce weapon management system, which allows the aircraft to be rapidly reconfigured from transport duties to light attack missions.
To fulfill the anti-tank role previously held by the Tiger, the LKH fleet is being integrated with precision weaponry. The loadout options include 12.7mm machine gun pods, 20mm cannons, and 70mm laser-guided rockets. Crucially, the platform is designed to deploy the Spike ER2 anti-tank missile, providing precision strike capabilities at ranges exceeding 10 kilometers.
The aircraft are powered by two Safran Arriel 2E engines, known for their low acoustic signature, making the H145M the quietest helicopter in its class, a vital trait for special operations. The cockpit features the Helionix digital avionics suite with a 4-axis autopilot, reducing pilot workload during complex day and night operations. The decision to procure the H145M in such large numbers is a direct consequence of the operational challenges facing the Tiger UHT attack helicopter. Plagued by low availability rates and high maintenance costs, the Tiger is set to be retired by 2032. Rather than investing in the costly MkIII mid-life upgrade pursued by France and Spain, Germany opted for a “bridge solution” utilizing a Commercial-Off-The-Shelf (COTS) philosophy.
This shift prioritizes availability and logistics over specialized heavy armor. The H145M offers availability rates often exceeding 90%, a stark contrast to the struggles of the Tiger fleet. The new helicopters will be stationed at key bases including Bückeburg for training, Fritzlar for combat operations, and Laupheim for special forces support.
The execution of this option signals a pragmatic shift in German defense procurement. Historically known for lengthy development cycles and bespoke requirements, the Bundeswehr’s embrace of the H145M, a militarized civilian platform, demonstrates a new focus on speed and reliability. Delivering 82 helicopters within a four-year window (2024–2028) is an ambitious target that, if met, could serve as a model for future European defense acquisitions. However, while the H145M offers superior readiness, it lacks the heavy armor and crash survivability of a dedicated attack helicopter like the Tiger or Apache, suggesting a change in doctrine toward agility and standoff precision over close-range durability.
What is the primary role of the H145M LKH? When will the deliveries be completed? What weapons can the H145M carry?
Germany Expands H145M Fleet to 82 Units, Solidifying Tiger Replacement Strategy
Contract Breakdown and Fleet Allocation
Technical Capabilities: The LKH Configuration
Armament and Avionics
Strategic Context: Replacing the Tiger
AirPro News Analysis
Frequently Asked Questions
It serves as a light combat helicopter for ground support, reconnaissance, and anti-tank warfare, acting as a replacement for the Tiger attack helicopter.
Deliveries began in November 2024 and are scheduled to conclude by 2028.
It is equipped with the HForce system, capable of firing machine guns, cannons, guided rockets, and Spike ER2 anti-tank missiles.
Sources
Photo Credit: Airbus