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MBB Eurocopter BK 117 / EC145 / H145

MBB · Utility/Transport · Germany · Cold War (1970–1991)

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Joint MBB/Kawasaki development evolved into EC145/H145. Clamshell rear doors for quick patient loading — dominant EMS helicopter worldwide. H145 with 5-blade rotor (bearingless) is current version. Used by German Army, HEMS globally, and US Army UH-72A Lakota for training.

Specifications

Category
Rotorcraft
Sub-Category
Utility/Transport
Domain
Dual-Use
Era
Cold War (1970–1991)
Country
Germany
Manufacturer
MBB
Co-Manufacturer
Kawasaki / Eurocopter / Airbus
Operator
Civil and military worldwide (civil dominant)
Status
In Service
Service Entry
1983
Produced
1600
Unit Cost (2026$)
~$7M (H145)
Propulsion
Turboprop
Engine
2x Turboméca Arriel 1E2 turboshaft
Thrust / Power
1,432 shp total
Launch
Ground
Length (ft)
43
Wingspan (ft)
36.1
Empty Weight (lb)
3968
MTOW (lb)
7385
Payload (lb)
2370
Endurance (hr)
3.5
Service Ceiling (ft)
17000
Range (mi)
335
Max Speed (mph)
150