The Irish Department of Defence has signed a €91.7 million contract with Airbus Helicopters UK Limited to purchase four new Airbus H145M helicopters. Set for delivery starting in early 2027, these helicopters will support pilot training and enhance the operational capabilities of the Air Corps, including surveillance and reconnaissance. This acquisition follows the recent contract for a long-range Government jet and reflects the government’s commitment to modernizing the Defence Forces, according to Tánaiste and Minister for Defence Micheál Martin.