Bahrain signs contract with Airbus to purchase 9 multi-role H145 helicopters

Europe, Middle East, News December 18, 2024 , by IRIA No Comments

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Bahrain’s Ministry of Interior signed a pivotal agreement with Airbus Helicopters to acquire nine multi-role H145 helicopters. Sheikh Rashid bin Abdullah Al Khalifa, Minister of Interior, formalized the contract.

Bahrain’s Police Aviation Command will operate these helicopters, enabling improved capabilities in law enforcement and emergency medical services (EMS). Discussions for this procurement began in 2023, culminating in the final agreement in late 2024. While the exact contract value remains undisclosed, previous estimates put the unit cost of an H145 helicopter at approximately $9 million in 2021.

Olivier Michalon, Executive Vice President for Global Business at Airbus Helicopters, expressed enthusiasm about the deal, welcoming Bahrain to the global network of H145 operators. “The proven versatility of the aircraft is well-established, and we are proud to see Bahrain join other nations in the region that rely on the H145 for critical operations,” Michalon stated.

The H145 has gained significant traction across the Middle East due to its reliability and performance in diverse environments. Since 2018, Saudi Arabia has operated 15 H145 helicopters for emergency medical services. In 2020, the United Arab Emirates integrated a fleet of 10 H145 helicopters into its police force, while Kuwait currently operates five units for search and rescue missions. Regionally, over 60 H145 helicopters are in service, performing roles ranging from law enforcement to EMS and utility operations.

Launched by Airbus in 2014 the H145 features major advancements compared to its predecessors, including the integration of Safran Arriel 2E engines and the cutting-edge Helionix avionics suite. The latest five-bladed rotor version, introduced in 2020, brought a 150 kg increase in payload capacity and simplified maintenance requirements, further solidifying the H145’s reputation as a versatile and efficient platform.

*^{Airbus H145 helicopter is equipped with a modern mission management system for law enforcement operations. (Image Credit: Airbus)}*

Globally, the H145 is celebrated as a leader in the light twin-engine helicopter segment. With over 1,700 units in service and more than eight million flight hours logged, it is a trusted platform for military, law enforcement, and EMS missions across 150 countries. Notably, Germany adopted the H145 for its armed forces and police operations in 2015, while the United Kingdom expanded its EMS fleet with the model in 2017.

Powered by two Safran Arriel 2E engines equipped with full authority digital engine control (FADEC), it offers unmatched reliability and performance. The Helionix avionics suite, which includes a four-axis autopilot, enhances safety and reduces pilot workload, making it ideal for complex missions.

The latest version of the H145 has a payload capacity of 3,800 kg with a cruising speed of 246 km/h and a range of 650 km. Additionally, its low noise levels and reduced carbon emissions make it an environmentally friendly choice for law enforcement, EMS, and utility tasks in urban environments.

The Royal Air Force of Bahrain operates a diverse fleet of helicopters, tailored to its operational requirements. Since the 1980s, Bahrain has relied on Bell AH-1 Cobras for attack missions, acquiring 14 units after the Gulf War in 1991. In 2018, Bahrain ordered 12 AH-1Z Vipers, an upgraded version of the Cobra, with deliveries completed between 2022 and 2023.

For utility transport and support roles, Bahrain also operates Agusta-Bell AB212s and Sikorsky UH-60 Black Hawks. The Black Hawks, introduced in the 1990s and 2000s, continue to play a crucial role in Bahrain’s military and law enforcement operations. The addition of the H145 helicopters complements this fleet, specifically enhancing police aviation and EMS services.