U.K. MOD Receives First Airbus H145 to Replace Retired Puma Fleet in Cyprus, Brunei

The United Kingdom Ministry of Defence (MOD) has taken delivery of the first of six Airbus H145 helicopters, marking the start of a fleet replacement program for the now-retired Puma aircraft operating in Cyprus and Brunei.

Ordered more than a year ago, the new H145 fleet will support overseas deployments, with helicopters flown by the Royal Air Force's 84 Squadron in Cyprus and the British Army’s 667 Squadron Army Air Corps in Brunei. The aircraft are primarily designated for aerial firefighting and jungle training missions.

The Puma fleet, which was retired in March, had fulfilled these same mission requirements for decades. By selecting the H145—a helicopter already in use in the U.K. Military Flying Training System (MFTS) at RAF Shawbury and RAF Valley—the MOD aimed to streamline procurement and reduce costs.

The H145 is powered by two Safran Arriel 2E turboshaft engines, can reach speeds of up to 265 kilometres per hour, and has a maximum range of 651 kilometres. It features a five-blade main rotor, measures 13.64 metres in length, and has a maximum take-off weight of 3,700 kilograms—making it suited to both jungle and fire support roles.

Testing of the aircraft in its new operational roles is currently underway, with full deployment expected by 2026.