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Germany Gets First H145M LUH SOF Helicopters
Germany’s Bundeswehr has received its first H145M LUH SOF helicopters at Laupheim Air Base.
The H145M LUH SOF (Light Utility Helicopter — Special Operations Forces) variant from Airbus Helicopters arrives configured for special-operations work with upgraded avionics, self‑protection systems and mission equipment tailored to rapid deployment tasks.
The initial delivery marks the start of a wider procurement programme for up to 82 aircraft intended to modernise the German rotary‑wing fleet. The Bundeswehr says the new helicopters will gradually replace older types and are being phased into service with a target of full operational capability by 2027 to support NATO and EU missions.
H145M LUH SOF: what makes it special
The H145M LUH SOF is optimised for special forces missions including fast insertion and extraction, multi‑role support and operations in contested environments. Airbus Helicopters has integrated mission systems and defensive aids suited to the Bundeswehr’s requirements while retaining the H145 family’s proven twin‑engine performance and compact footprint for forward bases like Laupheim.
- H145M LUH SOF — Airbus Helicopters’ special-operations variant delivered to the Bundeswehr at Laupheim Air Base.
- Contract scope: up to 82 helicopters for Germany’s rotary‑wing modernisation programme.
- Operational timeline: deliveries will be phased; full operational capability targeted by 2027 to back NATO and EU deployments.
For the German armed forces, the arrival of the first H145M LUH SOF helicopters is a visible step toward upgrading special‑operations mobility and interoperability with alliance partners. Expect a mix of training, systems integration and incremental capability upgrades as aircraft move from delivery to squadron service over the coming years.
