**New RAF Helicopters to Enhance Cyprus Firefighting and Emergency Response Capabilities**
The British Bases in Cyprus announced on Friday that the first of three new Airbus H145 Jupiter HC Mk2 helicopters has successfully completed its maiden flight from RAF Akrotiri. This marks a significant advancement in year-round emergency response capabilities on the island.
The new H145 helicopters are set to undertake a variety of critical missions, including aerial firefighting, search and rescue operations, emergency responses, troop transport, medical evacuations, and intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance tasks. They are expected to take over the aerial firefighting responsibilities currently managed by Chinook helicopters stationed at RAF Akrotiri, particularly in preparation for the upcoming 2027 wildfire season.
Squadron Leader Steven Bradley, Officer Commanding 84 Squadron, emphasized the importance of these helicopters in enhancing the operational capacity of British Forces in Cyprus. “Our ability to protect and support those in Cyprus, and further afield, is a key pillar of our operations here. The arrival of the H145s in Cyprus provides the UK and its allies with a modern and agile fleet capable of fulfilling diverse operational requirements year-round,” he stated.
The RAF 84 Squadron pilots will continue their training on the new helicopters in Cyprus, with the assistance of specialist engineers from Airbus, before the aircraft enter full operational service. The helicopters were acquired under a £148 million program from the UK Ministry of Defence and are expected to provide a 24-hour, 365-day response capability once fully operational.
These H145 helicopters replace the capabilities previously offered by the retired Puma HC2 helicopters, as well as the earlier Griffin fleet. The British Bases noted that the H145 is one of the most widely operated helicopters in its class, utilized by military, emergency service, and civilian operators across more than 40 countries. Its modern systems are designed to reduce maintenance demands and ease crew workload, thereby enhancing operational availability.
Mark Langrill, Director of Rotary Wing and Uncrewed Air Systems at the Ministry of Defence’s National Armaments Director Group, described the arrival of the helicopters as a “significant milestone for Defence.” He highlighted that this development not only strengthens support to British Forces Cyprus but also contributes to the broader modernization of the UK’s rotary-wing fleet.
As Cyprus faces increasing challenges related to wildfires and other emergencies, the introduction of the H145 helicopters is seen as a vital enhancement to the island's firefighting and emergency response capabilities. The British Bases' commitment to maintaining a robust aerial response system is expected to improve safety and support for both local communities and military operations in the region.