Missions, advantages, components… Here are the details and advantages of the H135 helicopters that the Royal Air Forces (FRA) are preparing to receive.
Earlier this month, the first images of Airbus Helicopters’ H135 helicopters which will replace the Royal Air Force’s AB206s for training, transport and search and rescue missions were unveiled. The images of the five helicopters were taken at the Manching Airbus Center, located at Ingolstadt airfield, and bear the codes D-HCBB, D-HCBQ, D-HCBJ, D-HCBK and D-HCBL, according to the specialized site Spanish Defense.
It should be recalled that in July 2022, the European manufacturer Airbus Helicopters announced that the Royal Moroccan Air Forces have ordered a fleet of H135s for primary military training missions. These H135s will be used to train pilots to perform a wide range of demanding missions, including search and rescue missions.
The purchase agreement, according to the manufacturer’s press release, covers a full package of support services, including the delivery of flight training devices and the training of trained instructor pilots as well as maintenance teams. .
These multirole and economical H135 helicopters are powered by the Arrius 2B2 plus engine from Safran Helicopter Engines or the 206B3 from Pratt & Whitney Canada, depending on the option chosen. These two reliable turboshaft engines deliver exceptional performance and vital power reserves, even in one engine inoperative (OEI) scenarios, along with low fuel consumption.
Their alternative gross weight further increases the payload up to 120 kg (265 lb). With this development, operators will be able to carry an additional passenger (5 to 6 passengers), more equipment, more fuel, and also fly further, since the autonomy has been extended by 40 minutes and its range by 75 NM.
The training program will enable the Royal Air Force to take full advantage of the H135’s multi-mission capabilities, such as NVGs (Night Vision Goggles). It will replace the obsolete Bell 206 helicopters used for pilot training and currently used by the Air Force.
The H135 helicopter is known for its endurance, compact construction, low noise level and reliability and is perfectly suited for the transition to more complex aircraft. Its state-of-the-art cabin or cockpit with its new 4-axis autopilot offers the highest possible levels of safety.
The cockpit is designed to increase the crew’s situational awareness, counting to manage the aircraft with three large multifunction displays, one of which provides essential engine data, while the other two touchscreens allow the management of navigation systems via the GTN-750 GPS/Nav/Comm system and the integrated communication system.
The Airbus-designed Helionix avionics system provides operators with undisputed superiority in in-flight envelope protection, pilot assistance and situational awareness, resulting in unprecedented levels of flight safety. The new Helionix is also available on the H145, H175 and H160.
The rotorcraft’s tall main rotor and Fenestron ducted tail rotor also contribute to operational safety. They provide improved pilot safety margins and improved performance even in one-engine-inoperative scenarios.
The H135 is notably equipped with a night vision imaging system (NVIS) and can be equipped with a cockpit suitable for night vision goggles (NVG), cabin amenities and exterior lighting.