In a groundbreaking move, Airbus Helicopters is proud to unveil their AH-125 and MH-125 Ares helicopters, the first U.S.-built military configurations joining the prestigious Airbus range. Designed to meet the specific needs of military and parapublic allies worldwide, these combat-ready aircraft promise enhanced capabilities and versatility.
The AH-125 Ares takes the spotlight as the armed variant, boasting a formidable arsenal to handle diverse combat situations. On the other hand, the MH-125 Ares steps forward as a multi-role helicopter, perfectly suited for an array of operations. Both models complement the existing lineup of military helicopters manufactured by Airbus, including the highly regarded H125M.
Scott Tumpak, Vice President of Military Line of Business for Airbus U.S. Space and Defense, expressed his enthusiasm for the new additions, stating, “The AH-125 and MH-125 Ares helicopters will offer the capability, reliability, and flexibility needed by America’s allies and partners. From light attack missions to disaster response and other parapublic tasks, these helicopters represent the latest evolution of Airbus’ H125 family, produced right here in the U.S.”
With the H125 family already dominating the single-engine market worldwide, accounting for nearly 80% of all sales, the inclusion of flexible weapons capability enhances its appeal further. The H125 can now be easily reconfigured between various mission sets in under 30 minutes, facilitating rapid adaptations for light attack, air assault, search and rescue, casualty evacuation, disaster response, combat operations, and parapublic duties.
MAG Aerospace will take charge of the weapons installation design, engineering, certification and manufacturing processes. The AH-125 and MH-125 Ares helicopters will be equipped with a diverse range of weapons, from .50 cal (12.7 mm) guns and unguided rockets to precision-guided armaments as a growth option. Notably, the design allows for doors-on flight throughout the entire mission.
Matt Bartlett, President of MAG Aerospace, expressed his excitement about the collaboration with Airbus, saying, “It’s an honor to work with Airbus and expand our ability to serve our partners in the U.S. and around the world. Combining our unique platform engineering and modification capabilities with the world-class leader in the single-engine helicopter market opens up new possibilities for us.”
With a strong track record in the U.S. law enforcement and government sectors, the H125 helicopter has proven its worth over the years. Currently it serves as the primary enforcement helicopter for U.S. Customs and Border Protection, with a fleet of over 100 H125 family aircraft in service. As the single largest customer and operator, the U.S. government reaffirms its confidence in Airbus.
Airbus remains committed to providing reliable and versatile helicopters to the U.S. government and military. The UH-72A and UH-72B Lakota helicopters, with over 480 units delivered since 2006, continue to play a crucial role in various missions for the U.S. Army and National Guard. Additionally, Airbus supports the U.S. Coast Guard’s fleet of nearly 100 MH-65 helicopters, vital for homeland security, drug interdiction, and lifesaving operations.
Photo: Airbus
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