NHIndustries NH90

Summary

Category	Helicopter
Origin country	🇩🇪 Germany 🇫🇷 France 🇮🇹 Italy 🇳🇱 Netherlands
First flight	18 December 1995
Year of introduction	2004
Number produced	471 units
Average unit price	$42 million

Description

The NH90 is a medium-sized, twin-engine, multi-role military helicopter developed by NHIndustries, a consortium formed by Airbus Helicopters, Leonardo Helicopters, and Fokker Aerostructures. The development of the NH90 began in the late 1980s with the aim of producing a modern, multi-role helicopter for NATO countries. It made its first flight in 1995 and has since been adopted by various military forces around the world.

The NH90 program was initiated to meet the requirements for a modern, multi-role military helicopter that could be standardized across NATO member countries. It was officially launched in 1992 with France, Italy, Germany, and the Netherlands as the founding members. The program aimed to replace a variety of older helicopters in use, thereby streamlining logistics, training, and maintenance.

The NH90 faced numerous delays, cost overruns, and technical challenges, but it eventually became one of the most advanced military helicopters in service.

The NH90 features a modern design incorporating several advanced technologies. It's built with a high proportion of composite materials, which reduces weight and increases durability. The helicopter is powered by two turboshaft engines, offering improved performance and fuel efficiency compared to older models.

One of the standout features is its fly-by-wire control system, which simplifies the pilot's workload and allows for more precise handling. This is relatively rare in helicopters and places the NH90 among the more advanced rotorcraft in terms of control systems.

In the naval variant, the NFH, specific adaptations are made for maritime operations, such as anti-submarine and anti-surface warfare. It features advanced sonar and radar systems and is capable of carrying torpedoes and anti-ship missiles.

The cockpit is fully digital and incorporates multi-function displays, offering high situational awareness. Night vision and advanced navigation systems are also integrated, making the NH90 suitable for all-weather, day and night operations.

Operational history

The NH90 entered into service in the early 2000s and has been adopted by various military forces across Europe and beyond. Its operational history has been diverse, reflecting its multi-role design.

It has seen active service in a number of conflict zones. For example, the French Army used the NH90 in Mali as part of Operation Serval, where it performed troop transport and medical evacuation missions. Similarly, the Italian Navy has deployed its NH90s for anti-piracy operations off the coast of Somalia.

However, the NH90 has faced some criticisms. There have been reports of operational issues, including mechanical failures and maintenance challenges. Some countries have also criticized the high operating costs, leading to reduced orders or even the reconsideration of their commitment to the platform.

Despite these challenges, the NH90 remains one of the most advanced and versatile military helicopters in service today, with ongoing upgrades aimed at addressing its shortcomings.

Variants

The NH90 has two main variants: the Tactical Transport Helicopter (TTH) and the NATO Frigate Helicopter (NFH).

NH90 TTH: This is the land-based variant designed primarily for troop transport, medical evacuation, and utility roles. It can carry up to 20 fully equipped troops or more than 2,500 kg of cargo. The TTH can also be fitted with weapon systems like machine guns, making it adaptable for combat support and special operations. Some countries have specific sub-variants of the TTH tailored to their unique requirements.
NH90 NFH: This naval version is intended for maritime operations, including anti-submarine warfare (ASW), anti-surface warfare (ASuW), and search and rescue (SAR). It comes with a dipping sonar and radar system and can be armed with torpedoes, depth charges, and anti-ship missiles.

Both variants share a high level of commonality, around 75% to 80%, to reduce the costs and complexities of maintenance and training. However, each variant can also be tailored to the specific requirements of the customer nation, leading to several sub-variants with customized avionics, armaments, and systems.

For example, the German Army operates a version known as the NH90 TTH Multi-Role Helicopter (MRH), and the Australian Army uses a modified version known as the MRH90 Taipan.

Technical specifications

Version: NH-90 TTH
Crew	1 to 3
Operational range	880 km (547 mi)
Maximum speed	300 km/h (186 mph)
Wingspan	16.3 m (53.5 ft)
Height	5.3 m (17.4 ft)
Length	19.6 m (64.2 ft)
Empty weight	6400 kg (14110 lbs)
Max. takeoff weight	10600 kg (23369 lbs)
Climb rate	11.2 m/s (36.7 ft/s)
Powerplant	2 × turbines Rolls-Royce-Turbomeca RTM322 delivering 1693 kW

Current operating countries

Country		Units
	Italy	105 (+10)
	Germany	93 (+35)
	France	73 (+27)
	Australia	47
	Spain	21 (+23)
	Finland	20
	Netherlands	18
	Oman	18
	Sweden	18
	Greece	14 (+6)
	New Zealand	8
	Belgium	7
	Qatar	4 (+24)
	Saudi Arabia	0 (+22)