The first of three new Airbus H145 Jupiter HC Mk2 helicopters has made its maiden flight from Akrotiri Air Force Base (RAF Akrotiri), marking a significant step towards strengthening the UK's operational capacity to respond to crises in the Eastern Mediterranean
In a statement, the British Bases states:
"The arrival of the H145 helicopters now establishes the possibility of operational response in Cyprus on a 24-hour basis, 365 days a year. The H145 is a versatile and highly capable platform, which can be adapted to a wide range of missions, including aerial firefighting, intelligence gathering, and search and rescue operations.
It is one of the most widespread helicopters in its class, which is in service with military forces, emergency services and civilian actors in more than 40 countries. Its modern systems reduce both maintenance requirements and crew workloads, ensuring increased availability when it is most needed.
The Commander of 84 Squadron RAF, Captain Steven Bradley, said: "Our ability to protect and support those in Cyprus, and beyond, is a key pillar of our operations.
The arrival of the H145 helicopters in Cyprus provides the UK and its allies with a modern and flexible fleet, capable of meeting a wide range of operational requirements throughout the year." The pilots of the 84th Squadron of the RAF will continue their training in the new helicopters in Cyprus, with the support of specialized Airbus engineers.
The H145 helicopters are expected to take over aerial firefighting missions from the Chinook helicopters currently stationed at RAF Akrotiri, before the start of the next fire season."
