A few days ago, Belgium’s new H145M helicopter completed its first test flight on the premises of Airbus Helicopters Germany in Donauwörth. The flight marked the start of the test phase – the final technical step before the aircraft is delivered. The H145M is intended to demonstrate the operational capability of the Belgian armed forces in the areas of transportation, medical evacuation, firefighting and special operations.
Last year, the Belgian Ministry of Defense ordered a total of 17 helicopters of this type from Airbus: 15 for the armed forces and two for the police. The first helicopter for the armed forces is scheduled for delivery in Bevekom in spring 2026. This will be followed by a delivery every month until the fleet is complete by the end of 2027.
The H145M will gradually replace the Agusta A109 helicopters, which have been in service since the 1990s and will be decommissioned at the end of 2027.
Training and preparation
The H145M is technically easier to maintain than the NH90 helicopter, but has its own procedures and terminology. For this reason, technicians have been completing six weeks of specialized training since September: two weeks of theory, two weeks of practice and two weeks of work on the engine.
The flight and ground personnel will mainly come from the current NH90 and Agusta A109 units. The first pilots will begin their training in January 2026 and the Ministry of Defense plans to have its own instructors by summer 2026.
International and European cooperation
In addition to Belgium, Germany (-> The Bundeswehr is ordering 20 more H145Ms), Luxembourg, Serbia, Ireland, the United States and Hungary are currently relying on the H145M. This joint decision promotes closer cooperation between the allies.
Interoperability with Germany is a major advantage for the Belgian special forces. Germany uses the same type of helicopter for its special forces, which facilitates joint operations and training.
In addition, the H145M has an advanced communication system for data exchange between all parties involved on the battlefield. This connectivity contributes to the digitalization of the battlefield and promotes closer cooperation with the ground forces.
Multifunctional strength
However, the biggest advantage of the H145M helicopter is probably its versatility. Thanks to modular mission kits, the helicopter can be converted for a different mission within an hour – from search and rescue operations, armed escorts, troop transportation, training, observation and lifting operations to patient transportation and firefighting.
Thanks to its wide range of weapon systems, the device is suitable for a variety of scenarios, from humanitarian missions to armed operations.
Here for more news about the Belgian armed forces and here for more news about Airbus Defense and Space.
