The Royal Brunei Air Force will soon use new Airbus helicopters to support its operations and missions after the country’s Ministry of Defence signed a contract to order six H145M helicopters.
The H145M helicopters will replace Royal Brunei Air Force’s old BO105 fleet and will be used to enhance the air force’s operational capabilities which includes close air support and aerial observation.
The H145M is a multi-role military helicopter that provides a broad range of mission capabilities. According to Airbus, its global fleet of Airbus’ H145 family has accumulated more than seven million flight hours. Brunei is the latest nation to order the H145M, after Cyprus, Germany, Hungary, Luxembourg, Serbia and Thailand.
“We are greatly honored by the selection of the H145M to support the Royal Brunei Air Force’s expanded missions,” Bruno Even, CEO of Airbus Helicopters said in a press statement.
“The H145M is well regarded for its high performance and versatility, and we are confident that it will bring a step change in operational readiness to Brunei,” Even added.
The H145M is powered by two Turbomeca Arriel 2E engines, and is equipped with full authority digital engine control (FADEC). The helicopter also uses Helionix digital avionics suite which, alongside innovative flight data management, includes a high-performance 4-axis autopilot. Airbus said that the helicopter’s low acoustic footprint makes it the quietest helicopter in its class.