BERLIN- Germany’s new H145M light attack helicopter programme is facing significant weapons integration delays, raising questions about the combat readiness of an aircraft intended to strengthen the Bundeswehr’s battlefield capabilities. Reports published in November 2026 indicate that the helicopter has encountered problems involving its 20mm cannon ammunition.
The difficulties have put the German procurement programme under scrutiny because the Bundeswehr selected the H145M as a relatively affordable and readily available platform to provide light attack capabilities. Germany originally ordered 62 helicopters in December 2023, with an option for another 20, subsequently bringing its planned fleet to 82 aircraft. The programme is valued at approximately €2.5 billion, including associated equipment and support.
H145M Weapons Problems
According to reporting by German magazine Der Spiegel, based on a Federal Court of Audit report submitted to the Bundestag, the H145M programme has encountered problems that could delay its operational readiness by several years.
One of the main concerns involves the helicopter’s 20mm automatic cannon. The ammunition intended for the weapon reportedly raised safety concerns because of the electrostatic sensitivity of its primer, preventing authorities from certifying it as safe for operational use.
The audit report also highlighted delays in testing ammunition intended for the new light attack helicopter. Testing had reportedly been planned since 2020, but the necessary work had not been completed when the findings emerged.
The Spike anti-tank missile integration presents another challenge. These Israeli-made guided weapons were intended to give the H145M the ability to engage armoured targets, but their delivery to the German military is not expected before the end of 2027.
Furthermore, the subsequent testing programme could extend until 2029, making the original operational timeline increasingly difficult to achieve. Germany’s Defence Ministry has reportedly described this schedule as highly ambitious.
Airbus Responds To Issues
Airbus Helicopters has avoided directly addressing the specific allegations surrounding the weapons integration programme, Defense Express reported.
When contacted by the German defence publication Hartpunkt about the reports, the manufacturer said it did not comment on statements made by third parties.
Airbus also highlighted the complexity of the project, its cooperation with relevant authorities and the number of H145M attack helicopters already delivered to customers.
However, deliveries do not necessarily mean that all planned combat capabilities are ready for operational deployment. The distinction between receiving the aircraft and completing its weapons qualification remains central to the programme’s difficulties.
The German Defence Ministry has separately acknowledged delays in the H145M’s operational readiness. A ministry spokesperson said the problems were known and stressed that industry must demonstrate significant progress in delivering the required capabilities.
Germany And Spain Orders
Germany’s original December 2023 contract covered 62 firm H145M orders, with an option for another 20. Airbus subsequently confirmed the additional 20-helicopter order in December 2025, bringing the total to 82.
The German Army is scheduled to receive 72 helicopters, while the remaining 10 will support special operations missions for the Luftwaffe. The aircraft will perform light attack, reconnaissance, training and special forces support missions.
Spain has also selected the H145M as part of a major military helicopter modernisation programme. In December 2025, Madrid ordered 50 helicopters for its Army, with missions including pilot training, light attack, utility operations and disaster relief.
Poland has also emerged as a potential additional customer for the platform, although it continues to implement its separate contract for 96 Boeing AH-64 Apache attack helicopters.
The weapons integration difficulties therefore carry implications beyond Germany’s procurement programme.
With multiple countries selecting the H145M, Airbus will need to address the outstanding technical and qualification challenges to ensure that the helicopter delivers the combat capabilities promised to customers.
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