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A new video obtained by Kathimerini offers the first glimpse of the National Guard’s newly acquired H145M helicopters in action at the Andreas Papandreou Air Base, showcasing the powerful aircraft’s capabilities as part of Cyprus’ growing defense arsenal.
The sleek, multi-purpose helicopters, delivered earlier this year, mark a major upgrade for the country’s air capabilities. Defense Minister Vassilis Palmas said in May that the H145M is a "modern aircraft used by top-tier armies," including those of Germany, Hungary, Belgium, Ireland, and the United States.
Made in France, the H145M is officially classified as a light attack helicopter, but it’s far from one-dimensional. It can also handle missions like search and rescue, cargo transport, medical evacuations, and reconnaissance, day or night.
Built for combat and more
The helicopter is equipped with advanced defense systems and can fly in harsh conditions. It’s armed with 12mm and 20mm cannons, laser-guided rockets, and anti-tank missiles with a reach of up to 16 kilometers. It can even link up with drones for coordinated missions, something usually seen in more advanced military operations.
According to its manufacturer, the H145M is designed to be fast, quiet, and highly maneuverable, ideal for both battlefield support and intelligence gathering. It can protect ground troops, strike enemy targets, and deliver supplies or aid when needed.
A versatile addition to Cyprus' arsenal
The arrival of the H145Ms is being seen as a milestone in modernizing the National Guard. Military analysts say the helicopters' combination of speed, firepower, and versatility puts Cyprus in line with other modern European forces.
The helicopters are expected to be based at the Andreas Papandreou facility in Paphos, with crews now training intensively on operating the aircraft in both peacekeeping and combat scenarios.
