Honvéd high-tech – Haditechnikai magazin – 8. rész

Summary

The Hungarian defense forces ordered 20 H145M helicopters, with the first two arriving in November 2019. Pilots underwent extensive training, transitioning from analog to digital systems. The H145M, used by many countries, is versatile for transport, combat, and rescue missions. It features a defensive system, can carry up to 272 kg with a winch, and has a communication system with active noise filtering. It participated in training and disaster relief, including flood rescue in Slovenia.

Takeaways

• 🇭🇺 The Hungarian Defense Forces ordered 20 H145M helicopters.
• 📅 The first two helicopters arrived on November 18, 2019.
• 🛫 The training for technical personnel and helicopter pilots is extensive and can take several years.
• ⏱️ The transition from analog to digital helicopter types can take between three to six months.
• 🇩🇪 Hungary is closely cooperating with Germany, which also uses the H145M helicopter type.
• 🚁 The H145M helicopter's range greatly influences its mission preparation, including passenger capacity and payload weight.
• 📏 The H145M has a maximum height of 3.95m, a rotor diameter of 11m, and a total length of 11.7m.
• 💺 The empty weight varies between 2400 to 2500 kg, and the maximum takeoff weight is 3700 kg.
• 🏃‍♂️ The helicopter is equipped with an active defense system, including two flare dispensers.
• 🔫 It can be armed with guided and unguided missiles, a 20mm gun pod, and a MAG58 machine gun.
• 🛰️ The helicopter is also equipped with a Fenestron tail rotor system, which is safer and reduces noise emissions.
• 🔊 It has a communication system with active noise filtering for the rear crew during search and rescue missions.

Q & A

What is the significance of the H145M helicopter acquisition for the Hungarian Defence Forces?

The Hungarian Defence Forces acquired 20 H145M helicopters starting in 2019, with the first two arriving in November. This acquisition is part of a broader modernization effort, as these helicopters are versatile and used for a wide range of missions, including combat, search and rescue, and special operations.

What challenges did Hungarian pilots face when transitioning to the H145M helicopter?

Hungarian pilots faced challenges due to their previous experience with Russian helicopters, which used analog instruments. Transitioning to the H145M, a more advanced digital helicopter, required extensive retraining that took 3 to 6 months depending on the pilot's prior experience.

Which countries are Hungary closely collaborating with in operating the H145M helicopters?

Hungary works closely with Germany, which also uses H145M helicopters for special operations. The two countries share operational experience and collaborate on training and technical aspects.

How does the payload and mission type affect the fuel capacity of the H145M helicopter?

The payload and mission type directly influence the amount of fuel the helicopter can carry. Factors such as the number of passengers and weight of the cargo determine how much fuel can be loaded for the specific mission.

What is the maximum altitude and speed of the H145M helicopter?

The maximum altitude of the H145M is 3,950 meters, with a top speed of 278 km/h. It can operate for up to 3 hours and 32 minutes with its internal fuel tanks.

What are the primary uses of the H145M helicopter in different configurations?

The H145M can be configured for various missions, including search and rescue, combat operations, special air missions, parachute drops, and transport tasks. Each configuration is tailored for specific tasks, like the addition of winches for search and rescue or weapon systems for combat.

What defensive systems are equipped on the H145M helicopter?

The H145M is equipped with both active and passive defense systems. Passive systems detect potential threats, while active systems deploy countermeasures such as flares to divert heat-seeking missiles. The helicopter also has radar warning receivers and chaff dispensers.

How is the H145M helicopter's tail rotor designed for increased safety?

The tail rotor of the H145M is designed with a fenestron system, which encases the rotor blades. This design enhances safety, especially during loading and unloading operations, by reducing the risk of damage to the blades and minimizing noise, making the helicopter less detectable.

What are the features of the H145M helicopter’s weapon systems?

The H145M's weapon systems include guided and unguided rockets, a 20mm cannon, and MAG58 machine guns mounted on the doors. These weapons allow the helicopter to be effective in both offensive and defensive combat operations.

How did Hungarian H145M helicopters contribute during the 2023 Slovenian flood relief efforts?

Hungarian H145M helicopters were involved in life-saving operations during the 2023 Slovenian floods. They played a critical role in transporting personnel and supplies, and conducting rescue operations in affected areas.