Germany's military upgrade: Airbus H145M helicopters to modernize forces
Germany has decided to purchase up to 82 lightweight assault helicopters (LKH - Leichter Kampfhubschrauber), specifically the Airbus H145M. A confirmed demand for 62 helicopters has already been made, with the remaining 20 described as optional.
In their search for a tank warfare suitable helicopter, the Germans opted for a completely different solution: they preferred lighter, versatile helicopters rather than specialized assault machines.
This contract, estimated at 2.1 billion euros, marks the largest purchase by the German military in recent years. The ground forces are expected to receive at least 57 units, with the remaining five earmarked for the Luftwaffe's special units.
Issues with the Tigers
The deliveries are scheduled for 2024-2028, with the new helicopters set to replace the lean, assault EC665 Tiger UHT machines in the German army – these specialized assault helicopters were designed at the end of the Cold War for anti-tank roles.
This design, developed by Germany in collaboration with France and Spain, has presented users, including Australia, with numerous issues over the years.
The Bundeswehr has chosen to discontinue further developments, upgrades, and gradually phase these machines out. The last Tigers are expected to retire from service by 2038.
The Airbus H145M light helicopter
The German army selected a helicopter with completely different characteristics as the successor for assault helicopters - the light helicopter Airbus H145M, which is already in use by the Bundeswehr. This machine has a take-off weight just over 7716 lbs, a fuselage length of 33 feet, a main rotor with a diameter of 36 feet, and a classic structural layout with a tail rotor.
The H145M, produced since 2002, is offered in various versions — as a passenger aircraft, a multipurpose transport helicopter, and as a unit intended for a range of uniformed services or rescue services.
The German army has ordered helicopters customized to meet military requirements, equipped with additional ballistic protection, self-defense systems, and optoelectronic gear that allows operations to be carried out irrespective of weather and time of day.
The Airbus H145M as an anti-tank helicopter
A minimum of 24 helicopters will be adapted to serve as anti-tank machines, replacing the Tigers. For this role, they will be equipped with Spike LR anti-tank missiles.
By introducing this variant, the Bundeswehr is reverting to a strategy from the Cold War era. Instead of specialized, heavy assault machines, they utilized light helicopters, the Bolkow Bo 105 equipped with HOT anti-tank missiles, for tank warfare.
The acquisition of H145M helicopters is deemed a transitional solution. Eventually, Germany aims to replace them with unmanned machines once the appropriate technology has been developed.
