France’s NH90 Special Forces Variant Begins Flight Testing
81 NH90 TTH Helicopters On Order
Airbus Helicopters has initiated the flight testing phase for the NH90 Standard 2 prototype, a unique configuration tailored to the French Army Aviation’s special forces operations.
The NH90 Standard 2 configuration, which incorporates advanced features such as the Safran Euroflir 410 electro-optical system, a new digital map generator, and provisions for a third crew member, is undergoing a comprehensive testing process until the end of the year.
These tests, conducted in collaboration with the French Armament General Directorate (DGA), are a testament to the commitment to quality and adherence to the scheduled developmental milestones.
Key improvements in the Standard 2 variant include enlarged rear sliding windows capable of accommodating self-protection guns. The ongoing flight tests are designed to validate the design’s performance under various operational scenarios, from high-altitude mountain operations to low-level urban insertions, enhancing the helicopter’s adaptability and capability to support special forces in diverse and demanding environments.
Future Integration
Furthermore, the prototype NH90 has provisions for future integration of the Distributed Aperture System and a new generation Helmet-Mounted Sight Digital Display, further augmenting its operational effectiveness.
The NH90 programme, initiated jointly by the NATO Helicopter Management Agency and NHIndustries, involves developing and upgrading 10 NH90 Tactical Transport Helicopters (TTH) to the Standard 2 configuration.
Following a contract awarded in December 2023, NHIndustries will produce an additional eight NH90 TTHs in the same configuration, underscoring the French Ministry for Armed Forces’ confidence and investment in the NH90 programme.
With plans to expand its fleet, French Army Aviation will operate 81 NH90 TTH helicopters by the decade’s end. The NH90 helicopter, first introduced to the French Army in 2011, has proven its capabilities with over 50,000 flight hours logged, including operational deployments such as in Mali since 2014.
NHIndustries, under the NH90 Operational Support (NOS) contract, supports the operational readiness of the NH90 fleet, ensuring efficient logistics and maintenance activities in collaboration with the French armed forces.
NHIndustries, a joint venture comprising Airbus Helicopters, Leonardo, and GKN Fokker, remains pivotal in advancing the NH90 programme, integrating the best European rotorcraft and defence technologies to deliver a cutting-edge military helicopter.
Featured image: Key improvements in the Standard 2 variant include enlarged rear sliding windows. Credit: Airbus Helicopters/Anthony Pecchi
