Five More H145M Helicopters for Belgian Internal Security
Belgium expands its fleet of versatile H145M helicopters to strengthen both defence and domestic emergency response capabilities.
The Belgian government has approved the purchase of five additional Airbus H145M helicopters to strengthen its internal security and defence capabilities, a move that underscores both ongoing military modernisation and heightened focus on domestic emergency response. The decision follows earlier orders of H145M rotorcraft and comes amid broader strategic reviews of Belgium’s air mobility and national security priorities.
The expanded fleet — which adds to the existing group of H145Ms already planned for the Belgian Armed Forces and Federal Police — reflects a dual mission profile: supporting military operations and improving response capacity to crises such as natural disasters, civil unrest, and critical infrastructure protection. Under the latest plan, three of the five new helicopters will go to the Defence Component, while two will serve the Federal Police, enhancing cooperation across security services.
Strategic Context and Capability Gaps
Belgium’s decision fits within a larger trajectory of modernising its military aviation assets. In 2024, Belgium signed a contract to procure a fleet of 15 H145M helicopters for its army and two for the federal police via the NATO Support and Procurement Agency (NSPA), aiming to replace ageing platforms like the Agusta A109 and some older rotary‑wing assets.
The H145M is a light multirole helicopter designed to perform a wide range of missions. It can be rapidly reconfigured for troop transport, medical evacuation, reconnaissance, tactical lift, and support operations — qualities that make it suitable for both armed forces and law enforcement requirements. The platform’s flexibility has helped it gain traction across European militaries, with several countries adopting it for a variety of missions.
Belgium’s emphasis on the H145M also aligns with broader trends in European defence procurement. Germany, for example, has ordered dozens of H145Ms and variants to expand its own rotary‑wing capabilities, while other nations such as Cyprus and Ireland have added the aircraft to their fleets, highlighting the model’s growing footprint on the continent.
Enhancing Internal Security and Civil Support
Beyond military missions, the additional H145Ms will play a critical role in domestic security operations. In recent years, Belgian authorities have been investing in capabilities that strengthen national responsiveness to emergencies, including natural disasters, search‑and‑rescue operations, and large‑scale public safety events. The Federal Police’s expanded access to these helicopters will support aerial surveillance, rapid deployment of specialized units, and coordination during crises.
Defence Minister Theo Francken has described the expansion as “an efficient and forward‑looking choice,” arguing that it not only increases the armed forces’ operational flexibility but also reinforces Belgium’s capacity to safeguard its citizens at home. Government officials have repeatedly noted that modern, versatile helicopters are vital tools for both everyday security tasks and extraordinary situations, such as severe weather responses or urgent medical transport.
Budget, Deliveries and Operational Timeline
While the precise cost of the additional five helicopters has not been publicly detailed, the acquisition builds on earlier investment frameworks that accounted for the initial H145M orders. Typically, such procurements include not only the airframes but also associated training, support services, and logistical arrangements to ensure effective operational use.
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Deliveries of the new helicopters are expected to occur over the next few years, with integration into existing fleets planned to begin as earlier H145Ms are delivered and enter service. Belgium’s air bases and supporting infrastructure are already being adapted to host the expanding helicopter fleet, reflecting a long‑term commitment to improving air mobility and security operations across the country.
Broader Defence and Regional Implications
Belgium’s move to expand its H145M fleet also occurs against the backdrop of evolving NATO and European defence strategies. With heightened focus on collective security and readiness following geopolitical shifts across the continent, investments in flexible, multirole platforms like the H145M contribute to both national capability and alliance interoperability.
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Furthermore, the expanded fleet may help alleviate capacity gaps caused by the retirement of older helicopters and align Belgium’s air capabilities with those of several neighbouring countries, fostering deeper cooperation in joint operations and training exercises.
About the Creator
Fiaz Ahmed
I am Fiaz Ahmed. I am a passionate writer. I love covering trending topics and breaking news. With a sharp eye for what’s happening around the world, and crafts timely and engaging stories that keep readers informed and updated.
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