German Armed Forces Expand Light Combat Helicopter Fleet Amid Modernization Efforts

Germany has exercised an option to acquire 20 more Airbus H145M light combat helicopters, bringing the total number of aircraft ordered under its framework agreement with Airbus Helicopters to 82 units. The decision follows a contract signed in December 2023 and deliveries began in November 2024. According to AeroTime, Airbus Helicopters Germany Managing Director Stefan Thomé described the additional order as a ‘strong vote of confidence’ in the helicopter’s performance and versatility. The H145M is intended to replace several legacy light helicopter types across the armed forces.