The UK Ministry of Defence has taken delivery of the first Airbus H145 helicopter from a batch of six, marking a key step in replacing the aging Puma HC2 fleet. The aircraft, which will be stationed in Brunei and Southern Cyprus, was handed over at Airbus Helicopters UK’s facility in Oxford.

Ordered just over a year ago by Defence Equipment & Support (DE&S), the helicopters have been modified in the UK to meet operational requirements. Once fully introduced, the H145 will take over the roles previously filled by the Puma HC2, which began retirement earlier this year.

Operated by 84 Squadron of the Royal Air Force in Southern Cyprus and 667 Squadron of the Army Air Corps in Brunei, the H145s are expected to support aerial firefighting and jungle warfare training, respectively.

The procurement, valued at £122 million, has led to the creation of around 20 engineering positions and involved approximately 250 personnel at Oxford Airport in Kidlington. Maintenance of the helicopters in both deployment locations will be primarily managed by Airbus Helicopters UK.

The decision to acquire the H145 — already in use within the UK Military Flying Training System at RAF Shawbury and RAF Valley — allows for operational consistency, streamlined training, and logistical efficiencies, avoiding the need for a new, bespoke platform.

Group Captain Rob Hart, Senior Responsible Owner for the H145 programme, accepted the first helicopter on behalf of the MOD and confirmed that test and evaluation activities have begun at MOD Boscombe Down.

Known in service as the Jupiter HC Mk2, the helicopter is powered by twin Safran Arriel 2E engines and features a five-blade rotor. It can reach speeds of up to 265 kph and has a range of 651 km. Its maximum take-off weight is 3,800 kg.

Deployment of the aircraft to Brunei and Southern Cyprus is expected to commence in 2026.

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