Airbus Helicopters has initiated the flight test campaign for the NH90 Standard 2 prototype, marking a significant milestone in the development of this advanced helicopter configuration tailored for the French Army Aviation. This initiative is aimed at enhancing the capabilities of special forces operations. The French Ministry for Armed Forces has placed an order for 18 NH90s in this new configuration, demonstrating their commitment to upgrading their aviation fleet. The testing phase is set to extend until the end of the year, adhering to the timeline agreed upon with the French Armament General Directorate.
The NH90 Standard 2 configuration introduces several cutting-edge features, including the Safran Euroflir 410 electro-optical system and a new digital map generator. It also incorporates provisions for a third crew member and new, larger rear sliding windows designed to accommodate self-protection guns. These enhancements aim to significantly improve the operational efficiency and safety of the helicopter in challenging environments.
The flight tests are crucial for validating the new design. The NH90 Standard 2 prototype has been outfitted with mechanical and electrical provisions for the Distributed Aperture System and a new generation Helmet Mounted Sight Digital Display, which are planned for future integration. These advanced systems are expected to boost the special forces' ability to conduct operations in highly demanding conditions, providing them with superior situational awareness and targeting capabilities.
This flight testing is part of a broader programme initiated in 2020 by the NATO Helicopter Management Agency (NAHEMA) and NHIndustries, alongside partners Airbus Helicopters, Leonardo, and Fokker. The programme focuses on developing and upgrading 10 NH90 TTHs to the Standard 2 configuration, reflecting a collaborative effort to enhance military helicopter capabilities across NATO member states.
In December 2023, following the programme's launch, NAHEMA, on behalf of the French Ministry for Armed Forces, awarded a contract to NHIndustries for the production of eight additional NH90 TTHs in the Standard 2 configuration. This contract underscores the continued confidence in the NH90 programme and its importance to the French Army Aviation's operational readiness.
By the end of the decade, the French Army Aviation is projected to operate a fleet of 81 NH90 TTHs. Since its initial delivery in 2011, the NH90 has become a cornerstone of the French Army's aviation capabilities. To date, 63 NH90 TTHs have been delivered, with the helicopter first seeing operational deployment in Mali in 2014. Collectively, the NH90 fleet has amassed 50,000 flight hours, highlighting its reliability and effectiveness in various missions.
The French armed forces' NH90 helicopters are supported by NHIndustries under the NH90 Operational Support contract, which is shared with Germany. This performance-based agreement delegates a significant portion of logistics and maintenance responsibilities to NHIndustries, allowing the armed forces to concentrate on critical operational duties.
NHIndustries, the largest rotorcraft joint venture, is responsible for the NH90 helicopter's design, manufacturing, and support. The company leverages the expertise of its parent companies, Airbus Helicopters (62.5%), Leonardo (32%), and GKN Fokker (5.5%), each contributing their unique strengths to produce one of the leading military helicopters in the world. This collaborative approach ensures that the NH90 remains at the forefront of military aviation technology.
