Updates and Upgrades Continue for Allied Operator

Airbus Helicopters has signed a contract with the Ministry of Defence of Brunei for the acquisition of six H145M helicopters. 

The new aircraft will replace the country's older Messerschmitt-Bolkow-Blohm BO-105s. The West German platform was pretty good for its day, offering the country a nimble twin-engine helo that could pull off missions outside strike roles alone. That's a nice value add for more cash-strapped nations, since they can't necessarily purchase and maintain an expansive fleet of single-purpose airframes. 

The Airbus H145M is a fine selection to replace the old German plow horse, with a host of modern updates to improve economy and functionality. Its new Turbomeca Arriel 2E engines provide a solid foundation for a host of similarly fashion-forward avionics like a 4-axis autopilot and next-gen Flight Data Management. Even better for those missions where it's pressed into the scouting role, and somewhat under advertised by Airbus, is the H145's modest acoustic footprint, ensuring it can sneak around just a little more effectively than a number of competing designs. 

“We are greatly honoured by the selection of the H145M to support the Royal Brunei Air Force’s expanded missions,” said Bruno Even, CEO of Airbus Helicopters. “The H145M is well regarded for its high performance and versatility, and we are confident that it will bring a step change in operational readiness to Brunei.”

The sale follows other acquisitions in a similar vein, where the country purchased $2 billion in M1 Abrams tanks, ordered two dozen surplus AH-1W SuperCobras, or took delivery of brand-new F-16 Block 70 aircraft. It's not too surprising, given their stance and strategic location, but it does seem like an awful lot of fancy new gear bought in quick succession - and that usually signals a rise in geopolitical blood pressure somewhere.

FMI: www.airbus.com