Bahrain's Ministry of Interior plans to acquire 9 Airbus H145 helicopters.
Bahrain to Acquire Nine Airbus H145 Helicopters for Law Enforcement and Emergency Services
The Kingdom of Bahrain has taken a significant step in enhancing its law enforcement and emergency medical services capabilities with the acquisition of nine Airbus H145 helicopters. This purchase, signed between Airbus Helicopters and Bahrain's Minister of Interior, marks a significant addition to the H145's growing presence in the Middle East.
The Airbus H145 is a versatile and advanced rotorcraft, renowned for its superior performance, modern avionics, ease of maintenance, and reduced environmental impact. This multi-mission aircraft is suitable for public safety missions, energy sector operations, law enforcement, utility missions, and emergency medical services.
One of the key advantages of the H145 is its versatility. Its spacious cabin with modular mission configurations allows quick adaptation to different roles and payload needs. The twin Safran Arriel 2E engines provide powerful, reliable performance suitable for diverse applications.
The H145's performance is impressive, with a maximum takeoff weight of about 3,800 kg (8,377 lbs), a top speed of approximately 268 km/h (145 knots), and a range near 650 km (351 nautical miles). Its advanced five-blade main rotor system enables a smoother flight experience and increased payload capacity compared to predecessor models.
Safety and maintenance are also top priorities for the H145. The helicopter features an enclosed Fenestron tail rotor design that enhances safety around ground personnel and reduces noise. Its modern Helionix avionics suite includes a 4-axis autopilot and digital cockpit displays that reduce pilot workload and improve situational awareness. The H145 is also equipped with full authority digital engine control (FADEC).
The H145's environmental credentials are noteworthy. Powered by upgraded Turbomeca Arriel 2E engines, the H145 benefits from better fuel efficiency and lower emissions than older variants. This makes it a more environmentally friendly rotorcraft option within its class. The H145's CO2 emissions are the lowest amongst its competitors, and it is the quietest helicopter in its class, contributing to a reduced acoustic footprint.
Olivier Michalon, EVP for Global Business of Airbus Helicopters, expressed pride about Bahrain joining the H145 worldwide community. With over 1,700 H145 family helicopters in service and demand continuing to grow for various missions in the region and around the world, the H145 is a preferred choice for multiple demanding civil and parapublic roles.
The H145 has logged a total of eight million flight hours, demonstrating its reliability and serviceability. With the addition of these nine helicopters, Bahrain's Police Aviation Command is set to embark on a new era of aerial law enforcement and emergency medical services, backed by the proven performance and versatility of the Airbus H145.
The acquisition of nine Airbus H145 helicopters by Bahrain not only strengthens its law enforcement and emergency medical services capabilities, but also solidifies the H145's presence in the finance, aerospace, and technology-driven industries due to its versatile and advanced features. The H145's adaptable design and advanced technology, including its digital avionics and fuel-efficient engines, make it a preferred choice for various missions in the industry.
