In a momentous event on March 17th, NHIndustries proudly celebrated the delivery of the 500th NH90 medium-sized military helicopter. This milestone delivery is a testament to the remarkable journey that began with the inaugural handover to the German Army in December 2006. The significance of this occasion brought together representatives from NAHEMA, partnering nations, and associated companies at Airbus Helicopters’ Marignane facilities to commemorate the transfer of the latest NH90 to the French Army Aviation. This 500th delivery stands as a tribute to the dedication and tireless efforts of the numerous individuals who have played pivotal roles in the NH90’s development, production, and ongoing maintenance. Moreover, it reflects the robust collaboration between Airbus Helicopters, Leonardo, GKN Fokker, and all participating suppliers invested in this groundbreaking program.
The NHIndustries NH90 stands as a medium-sized, twin-engine, multi-role military helicopter that emerged from the need to address NATO’s requisites for a versatile battlefield aircraft adaptable to naval operations. The NH90 is the brainchild of NHIndustries, a collaborative entity jointly owned by Airbus Helicopters, Leonardo (previously known as AgustaWestland), and Fokker Aerostructures. Embarking on its maiden flight in December 1995, the NH90 achieved operational status in 2007. Its enduring presence in military aviation underscores its excellence and innovation.
Conceptualized to meet NATO’s demands for a versatile medium-sized military helicopter for both terrestrial and maritime missions, the NH90 holds the distinction of being the world’s first helicopter developed in alignment with NATO prerequisites. This design conformity extends to various national and international standards, encompassing military airworthiness protocols in Germany, France, Italy, and the Netherlands. Additionally, it adheres to design standards like FAR 29 and MIL-STDS, as well as DEF-STN 00-970 for icing conditions and electromagnetic compatibility. The NH90 exists in two principal iterations: the Tactical Transport Helicopter (TTH) tailored for the battlefield, and the maritime NATO Frigate Helicopter (NFH).
Selecting the troop transport variant, the German Army received the initial three serial production NH90s in December 2006. By January 2013, the army had an order for 80 aircraft. The German Navy contemplated the acquisition of up to 30 NFH for its new Maritime Helicopter in 2009. Subsequently, a strategic shift in March 2013 saw the German government streamline NH90 procurement. The Army’s NH90 fleet of 122 was downsized to 82, while 18 previously ordered helicopters were repurposed as the NFH maritime variant for the Navy. Notably, the Navy’s version, dubbed the NH90 Sea Lion, is based on the NH90 NFH and completed its inaugural flight on December 8th, 2016.
The 500th delivery of the NH90 signifies a profound achievement and stands as a tribute to the collaborative spirit of innovation and dedication that fuels the development of cutting-edge military aircraft. With a legacy firmly established, the NH90 remains a defining benchmark in modern military aviation.
