Serbia receives first H145M
Airbus Helicopters has announced that following the delivery of the first H145M helicopter to Serbia in 2018, a local maintenance plant for SA 341/342 Gazelle helicopters in country has now been certified.
The Moma Stanojlovic aeronautical plant, located near Belgrade, has been certified by the company to carry out maintenance work on the Gazelle, which will be used to support regional operators of the type.
More than 160 Gazelle SA 341/342 were produced under license by the Soko plant in Mostar from 1971 to 1991, and these helicopters are still operated in Serbia and by neighbouring countries.
Serbia showcased its first H145M at the Partner Defence Exhibition in Belgrade on 25 June - the first of nine that are on order for the air force and ministry of interior.
The Serbian aircraft are equipped with a fast roping system, camera, fire support equipment, ballistic protection, and electronic countermeasures system. Airbus’ HForce system will additionally allow it to equip and operate its aircraft with air-to-ground and air-to-air weapons.
Serbia has also ordered three H215 medium utility helicopters for the ministry of interior.
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