UK finalises Airbus H145 helicopter order while NMH programme timeline continues to slip
The six rotorcraft now on order were expected to take over duties during 2026. (Photo: UK Crown Copyright)
The UK signed a $150 million contract for six Airbus H145 helicopters to enhance military operations in Brunei and Cyprus, replacing aging Puma HC2s. At the same time, questions remain over the fate of the New Medium Helicopter programme amidst uncertainties surrounding procurement plans and delivery timelines.
The UK has signed a £122 million (US$151.9 million) contract for six Airbus H145 (known as Jupiter HC2 in UK service) medium helicopters to fulfil missions in Brunei and Cyprus. As Shephard previously reported, the UK government published a notice referencing the potential deal last November – for £140 million then. The UK already operates the H145 in the trainer configuration (Jupiter HC1).
“The additional helicopters will be used to support UK troops conducting jungle training in Brunei, including essential medical evacuation,” said the UK MoD’s Defence Equipment & Support (DS&E). “The aircraft based in the Sovereign Base Areas (SBAs)
Our news & analysis is now part of Defence Insight®
A Basic-level or higher Defence Insight subscription is now required to view this content.
More from Air Warfare
-
![What opportunities remain for European airborne early warning requirements?]()
What opportunities remain for European airborne early warning requirements?
With a pending NATO AWACS replacement on the horizon, the demand and market opportunities for airborne early warning aircraft remain strong as countries look to bolster their capabilities, with industry eyeing gaps in the market.
-
![April Drone Digest: Why militaries are rethinking high-end drones]()
April Drone Digest: Why militaries are rethinking high-end drones
From France to Romania, there has been a clear shift away from expensive, vulnerable MALE UAVs in April towards lower-cost, expendable systems. Hard lessons from Ukraine and Iran have driven this shift.
-
![Bundeswehr launches loitering munition spending spree with $2.16 billion unassigned]()
Bundeswehr launches loitering munition spending spree with $2.16 billion unassigned
After months of delays, Rheinmetall has inked a €300 million deal with Germany for its FV-014 drone this week as part of a wider framework contract worth €2.4 billion for loitering munition procurement. Shephard looks at how the as-yet-unawarded funds could be spent.
