Ireland strikes $95m deal for advanced Airbus H145M helicopters

The Irish Department of Defence has finalized a €91.7 million ($94.6 million) agreement with Airbus UK to acquire four H145M light-utility helicopters, signaling a significant upgrade for the nation’s defense capabilities.

Announcing the deal, Micheál Martin, Ireland’s deputy prime minister and minister for defence, highlighted the helicopters’ versatility. “These helicopters will not only significantly boost the capacity of the Defence Forces pilot training programmes, but also enhance intelligence, surveillance, reconnaissance and light combat capabilities of our Air Corps,” Martin said.

The H145Ms will replace two aging EC-135 aircraft, with deployment plans including intelligence, surveillance, reconnaissance (ISR), light attack operations, police air support, and training. Additionally, the aircraft will bolster operational support for Ireland’s Special Forces and the Army Ranger Wing.

“These helicopters will provide vital light tactical transport support to the Army, Navy, and Army Ranger Wing, reinforcing our interoperability with Special Operations Forces,” said Brig. Gen. Rory O’Connor, General Officer Commanding of the Irish Air Corps. He also emphasized their role in modernizing the force: “These helicopters will also play an important role in shaping the next generation of rotary-wing pilots, ensuring the Irish Air Corps remains agile, adaptable, and mission-ready for years to come.”

While the specific weapons to be fitted on the H145M fleet remain undisclosed, Airbus literature reveals that the aircraft is typically equipped with the HForce weapons management system. This system supports a variety of armaments, including machine guns, cannons, rockets, and guided missiles. The first delivery of the H145M is scheduled for Q1 2027.

This helicopter acquisition follows Ireland’s recent €53 million deal with France’s Dassault for a Falcon 6X multipurpose aircraft, expected to serve in transport, airlift, and medical roles. The Falcon 6X is set to be delivered in December 2025, ahead of Ireland assuming the presidency of the European Union in 2026.

These purchases align with Dublin’s broader commitment to modernize its defense forces by 2028, a goal rooted in recommendations from the Commission on the Defence Forces. The plan includes addressing “priority gaps” to safeguard Irish sovereignty and implementing the Commission’s Level of Ambition 2 (LOA2) framework to transform military readiness.

As Ireland enhances its defense strategy, these acquisitions underscore a growing focus on equipping its forces to remain agile and prepared for emerging challenges.