Brand-new Jupiter HC2s arrive at RAF Akrotiri for firefighting and emergency response
Two new emergency response helicopters have arrived at RAF Akrotiri in Cyprus.
The Airbus H145 Jupiter HC Mk2s will be operated by the resident helicopter force 84 Squadron for aerial firefighting and search and rescue.
The well-wrapped helicopters travelled 3,218km (2,000 miles) from the UK across Europe, by land and sea, to their new home.
A £148m Ministry of Defence programme with Airbus took the contract to operational capability in two years, supporting hundreds of jobs.
"It's really exciting," said Wing Commander Johnny Longland, Jupiter HC2 Delivery Duty Holder.
"I've been part of this programme for the last two years, and to finally see the capability arrive here is a momentous effort by a lot of people."
Wing Cdr Longland added: "The squadron here have been waiting a year since Puma retired to receive an aircraft back onto 84 Squadron, and to see it flying will be brilliant.”
The aircraft will take on a wide range of tasks, including emergency response, aerial firefighting, troop transport, medical evacuation, and intelligence surveillance and reconnaissance.
The helicopters replace the Puma HC2 and Griffin, which were retired from service in recent years.
Cyprus' long history with helicopters
"Cyprus and 84 Squadron have a long history with helicopters," said Squadron Leader Steve Bradley, Officer Commanding 84 Squadron.
The first helicopter used by British Forces Cyprus was the Whirlwind 54 years ago.
"It's really exciting to bring the next level of capability and our fifth aircraft to the island," Sqn Ldr Bradley added.
Two other Jupiter HC2s are being flown in Brunei by the Army Air Corps' 667 Squadron.
"The H145 programme clearly demonstrates our ability to safely deliver a modern and reliable capability at pace whilst providing value for money," said Mark Langrill, director Rotary Wing and Uncrewed Air Systems, National Armaments Director (NAD) Group.
An additional aircraft is expected to be delivered to Cyprus and Brunei by the end of July, boosting the numbers in each location to three.
"With the addition of this six aircraft contract, the UK MOD will have a total fleet of 13 H145s across training and operational roles," said Richard Atack, managing director of Airbus Helicopters in the UK.
The helicopters will primarily be used for aerial firefighting in the Sovereign Base Areas and the Republic of Cyprus during the summer.
CH-47 Chinooks from 1310 Flight have filled the capability gap since spring 2025 and will remain at RAF Akrotiri for the rest of the year.
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