Ireland’s deputy prime minister and Minister for Defence Micheál Martin announced that the Irish Air Corps is to receive four new Airbus H145M multi-purpose helicopters to replace its fleet of older EC135 helicopters in a deal worth EUR 92 million.
The Irish Department of Defence recently signed contracts with Airbus Helicopters UK for the new twin-engine H145M helicopters, with delivery expected to begin in early 2027.
Mr Martin said: “These helicopters will not only significantly boost the capacity of the Defence Forces’ pilot training programmes, but also enhance intelligence, surveillance, reconnaissance and light combat capabilities of our Air Corps.”
“This investment is further evidence of the government’s commitment to enhancing our Air Corps, illustrated by the delivery of two C295 maritime patrol aircraft over the last 18 months, and the expected delivery of a C295 military transport aircraft next year.”
“These significant additions to the Air Corps’ capability will also be complemented by the acquisition of the new Falcon 6X multi-purpose strategic reach aircraft, the contract for which was signed earlier this month.”
The H145Ms will be equipped for a range of operations including maritime security missions, utility missions, intelligence, surveillance, target acquisition and reconnaissance (ISTAR) and light attack missions. They will also feature enhanced electro-optical and thermal imagery features not available in the current helicopter fleet.
Irish Defence Forces Chief of Staff Lieutenant-General Sean Clancy added: “The procurement of the Airbus H145M helicopter platform is another important step on the journey of transformative change of our Defence Forces.”
“These new light multi-role helicopters, proven in their service in other militaries, will not only enhance the Irish Air Corps’ rotary capability but will also serve as a critical enabler to the Army, Naval Service and Special Operations Forces.”
H145M helicopter
The H145M is the military variant of the H145 and is designed for enhanced operational capabilities. It can be equipped with features such as ballistic armour, self-sealing fuel tanks, and advanced electro-optical/infrared sensors. Additionally, it may include retractable pintle-mounted 7.62mm FN MAG machine guns or M134 miniguns, along with military-grade communication and navigation systems, as well as an electronic warfare self-protection system.
The H145M is also compatible with the HForce weapon system, allowing for precise targeting of 12.7 mm and 20 mm gun pods, as well as 70 mm guided and unguided rockets. Furthermore, the integration of the SPIKE ER2 missile enhances the helicopter’s anti-armour capabilities.
