Airbus Helicopters has successfully handed over the 14th and 15th H135 training helicopters to the Japan Maritime Self-Defense Force (JMSDF). This marks the delivery completion of 15 H135s over the last six years. Designated as TH-135 by JMSDF, the 13 units delivered prior have been in operation since 2011.
The TH-135 is a variant of Airbus Helicopters’ light twin-engine H135, specially customized for JMSDF’s specific requirements for advanced training missions. The H135 was selected as the replacement for its single-engine training helicopter fleet, thanks to its unrivalled performance and easy maintenance which translates to high availability rate.
“We are delighted to be able to deliver all fifteen TH-135s on time,” said Stephane Ginoux, Managing Director of Airbus Helicopters Japan. “We are committed to upkeep the highest quality of safety and efficiency of their training missions by providing prompt parts procurement, maintenance and technical support services.”
The H135 is one of Airbus Helicopter’s most successful light twin-engine helicopters in the 3-ton class, with a seating capacity of seven to eight passengers (five for TH-135). It provides higher payload over longer distances than other rotorcraft in its category, and delivers supreme performance envelope along with low fuel consumption. Other features include the use of a bearingless main rotor and Airbus Helicopters’ signature Fenestron® shrouded tail rotor. The results are enhanced cost effectiveness, noise reduction and ground safety.
In Japan, there are currently 80 H135s operating for emergency medical services, police work, electronic news gathering, VIP transport and business aviation.