Airbus Helicopters H145M / EC645

Summary

Category	Helicopter
Origin country	🇫🇷 France
First flight	12 June 1999
Year of introduction	2002
Number produced	1500 units

Description

The EC145, also known as the H145M in its military variant, is a twin-engine light utility helicopter originally developed by Eurocopter, which later became Airbus Helicopters. It was derived from the BK 117, a collaboration between MBB of Germany and Kawasaki of Japan. The EC145 was introduced in 2002 and is used for a variety of roles including law enforcement, medical transport, and military missions.

The EC145 program originated as an evolution of the BK 117, aiming to produce a more advanced and capable light utility helicopter. The BK 117 itself was a collaborative effort between Messerschmitt-Bölkow-Blohm (MBB) of Germany and Kawasaki Heavy Industries of Japan. The EC145 was launched by Eurocopter (now Airbus Helicopters) to meet the growing demand for a multi-role helicopter with improved performance, advanced avionics, and greater cabin space.

Development began in the late 1990s, and the helicopter made its first flight in 1999. The design incorporated new technologies and materials to enhance its capabilities, such as the fenestron tail rotor for improved safety and noise reduction. The EC145 was officially introduced into service in 2002.

The EC145/H145M features a fenestron tail rotor, which enhances safety and reduces noise. It is equipped with two Turbomeca Arriel 1E2 engines that provide improved performance and reliability. The helicopter has a spacious cabin that can be configured for different missions, including medical evacuation with room for two stretchers, or seating for up to nine passengers. The cockpit is designed for single or dual-pilot Instrument Flight Rules (IFR) operation and is equipped with modern avionics. The H145M military variant also has provisions for weapon mounts and other mission equipment.

Operational history

The EC145 entered service in 2002 and quickly gained traction in various civilian roles such as emergency medical services (EMS), search and rescue (SAR), and law enforcement. It is used by various organizations worldwide, including police forces, fire departments, and medical service providers.

The H145M, the military variant, has seen service with several armed forces. Notably, it has been used by the German Armed Forces for medical evacuation and utility missions, and it has also been adopted by the U.S. Army as the UH-72 Lakota. The UH-72 is primarily used for logistics and support roles within the United States but has also been deployed overseas for various missions.

The helicopter has seen use in disaster relief operations, where its versatility and lift capabilities have been particularly valuable. For instance, EC145s were deployed in hurricane relief efforts in the United States.

The H145M has seen some combat deployment as well, fitted with the HForce weapon system that allows it to carry out armed scout and light attack roles. Its modular design has made it adaptable for multiple mission types, from armed reconnaissance to troop transport.

Variants

EC145 (Original): The baseline model with standard avionics and configuration options for multi-role capabilities.
EC645 T2: An upgraded version featuring more powerful engines, advanced avionics, and the incorporation of a fenestron tail rotor for increased safety and reduced noise.
H145M: The military version of the H145, capable of being armed with various types of weaponry, including machine guns and rockets. It can also be fitted with advanced mission equipment like electro-optical sensors and defensive aids.
UH-72A Lakota: A specific version of the EC145 used by the U.S. Army primarily for logistics, support roles, and training. It features specific avionics and equipment tailored to meet the Army's needs.
EC145e: A simplified, lower-cost version designed for utility missions, including cargo transport and aerial work.
BK117 C-2: Though not strictly an EC145 variant, the BK117 C-2 shares many components with the EC145 and serves similar roles. It is often considered in discussions related to the EC145 family.

Technical specifications

Version: UH-72A (ÉU : Lakota)
Height	3.5 m (11.3 ft)
Length	13.0 m (42.7 ft)
Service ceiling	5486 m (17999 ft)
Empty weight	1792 kg (3951 lbs)
Max. takeoff weight	3585 kg (7904 lbs)
Climb rate	8.13 m/s (26.7 ft/s)
Powerplant	2 × turbines Turbomeca Arriel 1E2 delivering 550 kW

Current operating countries

Country		Units
	United States	475 (+38)
	Germany	23 (+3)
	Hungary	20
	Thailand	10 (+15)
	United Kingdom	7
	Ecuador	6
	South Africa	6
	Serbia	5
	Albania	2
	Bolivia	2
	Mexico	2
	Kazakhstan	1 (+20)
	Cyprus	0 (+12)