Airbus Helicopters has received an order for 42 new H145 helicopters from the French Armament General Directorate, with deliveries scheduled to commence in 2024 to be deployed for rescue and air medical transport services across France.
Airbus Helicopters has received an order for 42 new H145 helicopters from the French Armament General Directorate (DGA) in a significant move to bolster its emergency response and law enforcement capabilities. The order, finalized at the end of 2023, on behalf of the Ministry of Interior, with deliveries scheduled to commence in 2024. The Sécurité Civile, which currently operates four five-bladed H145s ordered in 2020 and 2021, will see its fleet gradually replaced by the 36 new H145s. These helicopters will be deployed for rescue and air medical transport services across France.
Of the 42 helicopters ordered, 36 will be allocated to the French rescue and emergency response agency, Sécurité Civile, while the remaining six will be utilized by the French law enforcement agency, Gendarmerie Nationale. The contract includes provisions for an additional 22 H145s for the Gendarmerie Nationale, along with comprehensive support and service solutions, ranging from training to spare parts.
Bruno Even, CEO, Airbus Helicopters said,“We have a long standing relationship with the Gendarmerie Nationale and the Sécurité Civile and I am very proud that we will add another chapter to our shared story. The H145 has already proven its worth with the Sécurité Civile conducting many rescue missions in the difficult mountainous environment of the French Alps. The H145 is operated by many law enforcement agencies across the world. The Gendarmerie will benefit from a state-of-the-art helicopter equipped with the latest mission systems.”
The six H145s designated for the Gendarmerie will mark the initiation of fleet renewal, replacing existing helicopters such as Ecureuils, EC135s, and EC145s. The new H145s for law enforcement will feature advanced capabilities, including an electro-optical system and a mission computer, making them well-suited for demanding law enforcement missions.
Certified by the European Union Aviation Safety Agency in June 2020, the H145 features an innovative five-bladed rotor that enhances its useful load by 150 kg. Powered by two Safran Arriel 2E engines with full authority digital engine control (FADEC) and equipped with the Helionix digital avionics suite, the H145 offers increased comfort, simplicity, and connectivity. Its 4-axis autopilot enhances safety and reduces pilot workload, while its low acoustic footprint makes it the quietest helicopter in its class.
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With more than 1,675 H145 family helicopters in service worldwide, accumulating over 7.6 million flight hours, Airbus continues to be a leading provider of advanced helicopters for various missions.
Question – Why did Airbus Helicopters win this significant order from France?
Answer- A total of 36 H145s will be deployed for rescue and air medical transport missions by the Sécurité Civile, while the remaining six will be equipped for demanding law enforcement tasks by the Gendarmerie Nationale.
Question- What are the key features of the H145 helicopters chosen by France?
Answer- The five-bladed rotor H145s boast increased payload capacity, advanced avionics with 4-axis autopilot, and mission-specific equipment like electro-optical systems for law enforcement variants.
Question- How will the new H145 helicopters be used in France?
Answer- Airbus’ proven track record with the Sécurité Civile, the H145’s versatility and advanced capabilities, and Airbus’ comprehensive support and service package were key factors in securing the deal.
Note– MRO Business Today is the Principal Media Partner of the 5th MRO SOUTH ASIA SUMMIT 2024 co-located with the MRO XPO INDIA & AIRCRAFT INTERIORS INDIA 2024 to be held on 27,28 & 29 February 2024 at the Le Méridien New Delhi, India.
