Belgium H145M first flight credit Airbus Helicopters 640First flight of Belgian Air Force H145M

On 14 November 2025, the first H145M for the Belgische Luchtmacht (Belgian Air Force) completed its maiden flight at Airbus Helicopters’ facility in Donauwörth, Germany.

The twin-engine light utility helicopter (LUH), carrying the test registration D-HBTF (c/n 21433), is the first of fifteen H145Ms for the Belgian Air Force. These helicopters will replace the Agusta A109 Hirundo, in service since the 1990s, as well as the NH90-TTH.

The new aircraft will carry serials RL01 to RL15, with deliveries expected to begin in spring 2026. In May 2024, Belgium confirmed an order for seventeen H145Ms through the NATO Support and Procurement Agency, including two for the Federal Police. The contract also covers training, spare parts, and five years of support.

Credit photo: Belgian Air Force via Airbus Helicopters/Cara Irina Wagner

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