Airbus Helicopters (formerly Eurocopter) is displaying its newest newest military helicopter at Eurosatory, the twin-engine EC645 T2, which has been ordered by Germany for Special Forces Command (Kommando Spezialkräfte). Airbus is scheduled to deliver the first helicopters under this order next year. The US Army is operating the UH-72A Lakota version of this model. More than 250 have already been delivered, demonstrating an availability rate of more than 90 percent. Designed for multi-role capability, the EC645 T2 has enough power to carry out missions with maximum speed and agility carrying full payload. For special ops, the helicopter’s small footprint allows safe and easy access to confined areas, for fast roping, rappelling and direct air assault. Typical special operations configuration accommodates door mounted or podded machine guns, leaving maximum internal cabin volume for a fully-equipped combat team-ready to operate by day or night.
The helicopter has a spacious unobstructed cabin, which is accessible through the side and rear doors, and can be fitted with a wide selection of armament – ranging from ballistic to guided ammunition, providing outstanding flexibility for all force operations from light utility to light attack.
