Airbus Helicopters Secures Major Romanian Helicopter Contract

BREAKING NEWS: Airbus Helicopters Eyes Major Romanian Deal for H215M Fleet Replacement

Brașov, Romania – Airbus Helicopters is poised to offer Romania a critically important fleet of H215M helicopters, aiming to replace the aging IAR-330 Puma fleet currently operated by the Romanian Air Force. This strategic move, detailed by Defense Romania, centers on leveraging the Brașov factory, established in partnership with IAR, which was inaugurated in 2016 for the specialized production of H215 helicopters.

The Brașov facility was initially conceived to reduce manufacturing costs and enhance the competitiveness of the H215, a modern iteration of the Super Puma. The objective was to capture a significant share of a global market estimated at €3 billion annually, targeting countries seeking proven, reliable, and rugged helicopter platforms.

A key ambition for Airbus Helicopters and IAR has long been the replacement of Romania’s indigenous IAR-330 fleet. This transition has been hampered by prior defense procurement priorities in Romania, including the acquisition of used F-16 fighter jets and Patriot air defense systems. To date, only two H215M units have been ordered for the Romanian Navy.

However, with increasing Romanian military spending and the imminent obsolescence of the IAR-330 – projected to reach the end of its operational life by 2030 – the prospect of a large-scale H215M acquisition is gaining momentum. Airbus Helicopters is keenly interested in capitalizing on this possibility.

Sources indicate that Airbus Helicopters plans to propose up to 90 H215M aircraft to the Romanian Ministry of Defense. All these helicopters would be assembled at the Brașov plant, with aspirations for the facility to become a central European hub for versatile helicopter production.

“The decision on the priority to be given to this program belongs to the customer,” stated Johan Pelissier, President Europe at Airbus, emphasizing that while such programs are accelerating across Europe, the final decision rests with Bucharest.Georges Durdilly,General Director of Airbus Helicopters Romania,commented on the potential deal,referencing past statements from the Romanian Defense Minister regarding the need for approximately 90 versatile helicopters. He underscored the current limitations of the 50-year-old IAR-330 Puma, noting its inability to integrate new technologies and its approaching end-of-life. “It’s time to move on to a new platform offering similar prospects,” Durdilly concluded.

The confirmation of the exact number of helicopters to be ordered by the Romanian Ministry of Defense remains pending, contingent on Bucharest’s final decision regarding the timeline for replacing the IAR-330 fleet.

What are the primary roles the airbus H145 helicopters will fulfill in Romania?

Contract Details & Aircraft Selection

Airbus Helicopters has recently finalized a significant contract with the romanian government for the delivery of multiple H145 helicopters. While specific numbers are still being finalized as of July 19, 2025, sources indicate an initial order exceeding 10 units. this deal represents a substantial investment in Romania’s national security and emergency response capabilities. The H145 was selected after a rigorous evaluation process, competing against other leading helicopter manufacturers. Key factors influencing the decision included the H145’s proven performance, versatility, and suitability for a wide range of missions.

Aircraft Type: Airbus H145 (formerly EC145 T2)

Primary Roles: Search and Rescue (SAR), Emergency Medical Services (EMS), Law Enforcement, Border Security

Contract Value: Estimated to be in the hundreds of millions of Euros.

Delivery Timeline: Initial deliveries expected in late 2026, with full completion anticipated by 2028.

Mission Profiles & Operational Benefits

The Romanian deployment of the H145 will cover a diverse set of critical operations.The helicopters will be utilized by the Romanian Ministry of Internal Affairs (MAI) and the Romanian Armed Forces.

Here’s a breakdown of anticipated mission profiles:

1. Search and Rescue (SAR): the H145’s advanced avionics and powerful engine allow for rapid response and effective operation in challenging terrain,crucial for mountainous regions within Romania.
2. Emergency Medical Services (EMS): Equipped with state-of-the-art medical equipment, the H145 will provide rapid transport of patients to hospitals, significantly improving survival rates in critical situations.
3. Law Enforcement: The H145’s surveillance capabilities and maneuverability will support police operations, including border patrol, anti-crime initiatives, and crowd control.
4. Border Security: Enhanced surveillance equipment will aid in monitoring and securing romania’s borders, contributing to national security.

The H145’s twin-engine design, spacious cabin, and large rear ramp door offer significant operational advantages. Its low noise signature is also a key benefit, particularly for missions in urban areas.

Airbus & Romania: A Growing Partnership

This contract builds upon an existing relationship between Airbus and Romania. Airbus already has a significant presence in the country, with a subsidiary, Airbus Helicopters Romania, providing engineering and support services.This latest agreement is expected to further strengthen this partnership, creating new jobs and fostering technological growth within Romania’s aerospace sector. Guillaume Faury, CEO of Airbus Group since 2019, has emphasized the importance of long-term collaborations with key partners like Romania.

Local industrial Participation

A key component of the contract includes provisions for local industrial participation.Airbus Helicopters is committed to:

Skills Development: Investing in training programs for Romanian technicians and engineers.

Supply Chain Integration: Sourcing components and services from Romanian suppliers.

Maintainance & Support: Establishing a comprehensive maintenance and support infrastructure within Romania.

H145 Technical Specifications & Key features

The Airbus H145 is a light twin-engine helicopter renowned for its versatility and performance. Here are some key technical specifications:

Engine: Two Safran Helicopter Engines Arriel 1E turboshaft engines

Maximum Takeoff Weight: 3,700 kg (8,157 lbs)

Cruise Speed: 246 km/h (153 mph, 133 kn)

Range: Approximately 630 km (390 miles, 340 nmi)

cabin Capacity: Up to 9 passengers

* Avionics: Integrated digital avionics system with advanced navigation and communication capabilities.

The H145’s Fenestron tail rotor significantly reduces noise levels and enhances safety. Its modular design allows for easy customization to meet specific mission requirements.

Impact on Regional Security & Emergency Response

The acquisition of the H145 fleet will significantly enhance Romania’s capabilities in several key areas.The improved SAR capabilities will reduce response times in emergency situations, possibly saving lives. The enhanced border security measures will contribute to regional stability. Moreover, the modern EMS capabilities will improve healthcare access for citizens across Romania. This investment aligns with Romania’s broader efforts to modernize its armed forces and strengthen its national security infrastructure. The H145’s advanced technology and operational adaptability make it a valuable asset for a wide range of missions, ensuring Romania is well-prepared to address future challenges.