The Department of Defence recently signed a €91.7 million contract with Airbus Helicopters UK Ltd for the delivery of Airbus H145M helicopters. These aircraft will support pilot training for Defence Forces operations and the Garda Air Support Unit. Delivery is expected to begin in early 2027.

Mr. Martin stated: “These helicopters will significantly enhance the Defence Forces’ pilot training capacity while boosting the Air Corps’ intelligence, surveillance, reconnaissance, and light combat capabilities.

“This investment underscores the government’s commitment to modernizing our Air Corps, as demonstrated by the delivery of two maritime patrol aircraft in the past 18 months and the anticipated arrival of a military transport aircraft next year. Additionally, this will be complemented by the acquisition of the new Falcon 6X multi-purpose strategic reach aircraft, for which the contract was signed earlier this month.”

The H145Ms will support various missions, including maritime security, intelligence gathering, target acquisition, utility operations, and light attack missions. They will feature advanced electro-optical and thermal imaging capabilities, surpassing the current rotary fleet.

Defence Forces Chief of Staff Lieutenant General Seán Clancy welcomed the procurement, calling it a pivotal step in the Defence Forces’ transformation. “These new light multi-role helicopters, proven in military use worldwide, will enhance the Irish Air Corps’ rotary capabilities and act as critical support for the Army, Naval Service, and Special Operations Forces,” he said.