Hungarian Defence Forces get new Airbus H225M helicopters completing the fleet – VIDEO
The Hungarian Defence Forces’ air fleet has reached a new milestone with the arrival of the final two Airbus H225M helicopters in the country, completing the previously ordered fleet. A short film documents their journey from the French factory to Szolnok, highlighting the logistical and technical steps required to bring the modern rotorcraft into operational service.
New Airbus H225M helicopters arrived from France
The H225M is a medium-sized, multi-role military helicopter developed primarily for long-range transport, search and rescue, and special operations missions. Powered by two robust Turbomeca Makila 2A1 engines, it delivers high performance even under extreme conditions.
Its range reaches 850 kilometres, extendable to over 1300 kilometres with auxiliary fuel tanks. The helicopter can carry up to 28 fully equipped troops, and its flexible design can accommodate medevac operations, cargo drops, or paratrooper deployment. The Hungarian Defence Forces‘ aircraft are outfitted with advanced self-defence systems, night-vision compatible cockpits, and precision navigation and communication tools.
This is how Hungary is modernising its military technology
Hungary is undertaking a broad effort to modernise its armed forces through the acquisition and development of various advanced military technologies, including hand-held weapons, tanks, combat vehicles, air defence systems, helicopters, aircraft, and artillery. In recent years, the following assets have been procured:
- Replacement of small arms: CZ Bren 2 rifles, Scorpion EVO3 submachine guns, CZ P-09 and P-07 pistols, and Carl Gustaf M4 anti-tank launchers.
- Helicopters: Acquisition of H145M and H225M types, along with ongoing development of combat helicopters.
- Tanks: Replacement of Cold War-era T-72s with Leopard 2A7 main battle tanks.
- Combat Vehicles: Procurement of Gidrán 4×4 MRAP all-terrain vehicles, Lynx infantry fighting vehicles, and tracked IFVs, supported by Spike anti-tank missiles.
- Air Defence: Modernisation of the Mistral system and deployment of the new NASAMS medium-range surface-to-air missile system across multiple batteries, along with Phase I of a self-propelled air defence system mounted on Lynx IFV chassis.
- Aircraft: Introduction of L-39 Skyfox trainer and light attack aircraft, KC-390 transport planes, and upgrades and expansion of Gripen fighter jets.
- Artillery: Acquisition of PZH2000 self-propelled howitzers, 120mm towed mortars, and fire control systems.
- New turret weaponry and multi-purpose anti-tank systems (shoulder-launched, recoilless) are being acquired for tanks and infantry vehicles.
NATO and the 5%
This initiative aims to standardise equipment, close military technology gaps, and establish NATO compatibility and cutting-edge defence capabilities suitable for Central and Eastern Europe by the 2030s. Former U.S. President Donald Trump previously urged NATO member states to increase defence spending to 5% of GDP. Under a 2025 NATO decision, member states have committed to gradually reach this target by 2035. The decision—made in The Hague with Trump’s presence—responds to increased security risks triggered by the war in Ukraine.
Currently, Hungary spends around 2% of its GDP on defence and must incrementally raise this figure to meet the new NATO target. Reaching the 5% goal will place a significant additional burden on Hungary’s national budget, with gradual increases planned for several years. For example, reaching 3.5% by 2032 is among the projected milestones.
Read more news: Hungarian military
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