The first Jupiter HC2 helicopter of the Royal Air Force (RAF) has officially begun its flight test program in the United Kingdom, marking a new milestone in the modernization process of the country’s rotary-wing capabilities. The aircraft started operations at RAF Benson, where it will be used for the training of pilots and aircrews prior to its operational deployment to Brunei and Cyprus in early 2026.
The Jupiter HC2 program, managed by the Joint Aviation Command (JAC) and developed in partnership with Airbus Helicopters UK, includes the acquisition of six Airbus H145 D3 helicopters. These aircraft will progressively replace the Bell 212 and 412 helicopters currently in service in both theaters of operation.
According to official information, the Jupiter HC2 will carry out troop transport missions, jungle training operations in Brunei, and emergency response tasks, including aerial firefighting, in Cyprus. The helicopters will be assigned to the 667 Squadron Army Air Corps in Brunei and to No. 84 Squadron of the RAF in Cyprus.
During the presentation marking the start of flight operations, Group Captain James Brooks, Senior Responsible Owner of the Jupiter HC2 program, stated: “The delivery of the first aircraft, in less than two years, to address critical capability gaps is a testament to the excellent collaboration between the UK Armed Forces, DE&S and Airbus Helicopters UK. This rapid acquisition program will provide significant capability to Brunei and Cyprus, while reinforcing the UK’s global overseas presence and investing in British industry. Operating the Jupiter HC2 at RAF Benson is the first important step towards full delivery.”
In this initial phase, RAF Benson will serve as the qualification and training hub for instructor personnel who will operate the helicopters overseas. In this regard, Wing Commander John Longland, Commander Air Wing at RAF Benson, said: “It is incredibly exciting to see the first Jupiter HC2 operating from RAF Benson under the Joint Aviation Command. To be flying the aircraft just 18 months after the first order is extraordinary and represents the culmination of exceptional teamwork and dedication from all involved. RAF Benson will provide a safe and supportive environment for this new capability to take off, and we look forward to its deployment to Brunei and Cyprus next year.”
The first flights demonstrated the joint operating concept of the Jupiter program. The maiden sortie was conducted by an RAF aircraft commander alongside the Jupiter HC2 Principal Flying Instructor, in coordination with the commanding officer of 667 Squadron Army Air Corps and Joint Aviation Command aircrews.
The acquisition of the six H145 helicopters was confirmed in April 2024 through a contract awarded by Defense Equipment & Support (DE&S) worth £122 million. Subsequently, in 2025, DE&S awarded Airbus an additional £33.6 million contract for the initial maintenance and support of the fleet for two years. This agreement provides for technical personnel to be deployed in the United Kingdom, Cyprus, and Brunei.
According to the official schedule, training flights will continue in the United Kingdom before the first aircraft are transferred to Brunei in February 2026 and to Cyprus in March of the same year. All Jupiter HC2 helicopters are expected to be fully deployed to both locations before the end of June 2026.
Images sourced from the Royal Air Force.
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