The Hungarians have Europe’s most modern helicopter fleet

Kristóf Szalay-Bobrovniczky said that these helicopters are not only modern, reliable ones with versatile functionality, but also complex systems that fundamentally change the response capability of the Hungarian Defence Forces, as well as their mobility and integrability into international military operations.

He added that within the framework of the military development program, the full equipment system of the Hungarian Defence Forces is being replaced, not only that of the air force. He noted that the now complete fleet of 16 helicopters is a quality leap in the operational possibilities of the Hungarian Defence Forces.

The ten tactical medium-lift helicopters facilitate an entirely different kind of mobility, be it about the rapid and safe transport of troops, equipment and supplies to their destination – he went on. Besides, there are also six helicopters in the fleet that are used as special operations platforms and are equipped with HForce weapon management systems developed for the Hungarian air force, and the last two of them has by now arrived – said the minister.

The helicopters of the fleet already in service had proven themselves – he said. By way of example, he mentioned the raging wildfires in North Macedonia last August, where the Hungarian Defence Forces provided quick and effective assistance. Furthermore, the helicopters performed professionally during the fire that blazed up in Vas County last September. In his words, the machines and the technology are very important, but humans are even more so. He pointed out that the Hungarian Defence Forces, and especially the air force, pay special attention to the proper training and selection of personnel.

The minister said thanks to Airbus for the excellent job, and to the HDF 86th Helicopter Wing for the high-level service. “The complete fleet should increase the strength of the Hungarian Defence Forces, and, through it, serve the security of Hungary and the Hungarian people” – said Kristóf Szalay-Bobrovniczky.

At the handover ceremony, Dennis Bernitz, Head of Sales Western Europe, Airbus Helicopters said that the Hungarian helicopter fleet is the most modern one in Europe.

Speaking about the completion of the fleet, General Dr. Gábor Böröndi noted that the process of phasing out the old Soviet Mi-8 and Mi-24 fleet and gradually replacing them with the H145M and H225M helicopter family of French Airbus had started in 2018. The aircrews flying earlier types underwent conversion training, while the younger generation has already been able to learn to fly this type in the first place.

“We are witnessing a shift of rotary-wing culture here, in Szolnok” – emphasized the Chief of Defence. He added that “A lot of investments have been made so that we can use the state-of-the-art equipment available in Europe under the best possible circumstances and the best pilots”.

He said that earlier the “good pilots” had been those who had good flying skills, whereas today the high-level knowledge and use of digital systems that make the equipment modern are indispensable. “Although flying itself has become easier, this means that the pilots must pay attention to more factors and they have more tasks as well” – noted General Dr. Gábor Böröndi.

“Not only did we enter these helicopters into service, but also created the conditions for their use. This enables us to lay emphasis on participation in different operations, including special operations and disaster management tasks” – said the Chief of Defence.

The event also involved dynamic and static displays. The maximum takeoff weight of the H225M helicopter is 11 tons. Its full length is 19.5 meters, and its height is 4.97 meters. Its maximum speed is 324 km/h, whereas its cruise speed is 262 km/h.

The ten medium-lift helicopters can be used to transport troops and cargo. Besides, the rotorcraft can carry external sling loads and have firefighting capabilities, even on nighttime missions carried out with NVGs.

The six helicopters used as special operations platform are also equipped with HForce weapon management systems. The package includes a 20mm autocannon, as well as a pod for 70mm unguided rockets. Anti-tank guided missiles (ATGMs) will be available at a later time. In addition, a complex Triple Inertial Navigation System (TINS), a multifunctional load management system, a winch and elements providing rappelling/fast roping capabilities are also available on the type.