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126-589: The NHIndustries NH90 is a European medium-sized, twin-engine, multirole military helicopter . It was the first production helicopter to feature entirely fly-by-wire flight controls. There is extensive use of composite materials and electronic sensors. The helicopter has two main versions, the TTH oriented towards land applications (able to carry up to 20 troops) and the NFH, oriented towards naval use and focused on such tasks as ASW and marine SAR. Over 500 have been produced for

252-532: A NATO battlefield transport and anti-ship/anti-submarine helicopter for the 1990s. The United Kingdom left the team in 1987. On 1 September 1992, NHIndustries signed an NH90 design-and-development contract with NAHEMA (NATO Helicopter Management Agency). This agency represented the four participating states: France, Germany, Italy, and the Netherlands. Portugal later joined the agency in June 2001. Design work on

378-682: A forward looking infrared (FLIR), weather radar , digital map generation system, enhanced ground proximity warning system , personal locator system, and VHF / UHF / HF tactical radios. In 2015, the NH90 became the first helicopter to receive a laser-based airborne collision avoidance system . Onboard mission systems feature a dual-redundant databus, are compliant with MIL-STD 1553, and are comprehensively managed via sensor fusion functionality. Customer demand for future avionics improvements such as new data links and communication systems, as well as additional electro-optical sensors, has been anticipated by

504-643: A native species of snake . The first MRH-90 entered service in December 2007 with the Army. Six MRH-90s would be operated by 808 Squadron of the Royal Australian Navy (RAN), which was reformed in 2011 and recommissioned in 2013. Overall, there were 46 airframes in service, with a 47th kept as a spare. On 20 April 2010, a MRH-90 suffered a single engine failure near Adelaide , landing safely at RAAF Base Edinburgh . NHIndustries personnel investigated

630-607: A Dakota and act as "beaters" to drive the guerillas into stop groups landed by the helicopters. During the Troubles , the Provisional Irish Republican Army (IRA) became adept at avoiding conventional, fixed roadblocks and patrols. To prevent predictable patterns, the patrols were deployed by helicopter, known as Eagle Patrols, and were then able to disrupt the IRA's ability to move personnel and arms. In

756-543: A Fast Roping and Rappelling Extraction System (FRRES) and a gun mount for the cabin door. The Taipan Gun Mount can fit either a M134D minigun or MAG 58 machine gun and when not in use, can be moved into an outward stowed position to provide clearance to enable fast roping and rappelling. In February 2019, the first two of 12 MRH-90s were delivered to the 6th Aviation Regiment . In June 2021, all MRH-90s were temporarily grounded due to lack of maintenance and spare parts which had to be shipped from Europe. In December 2021, on

882-596: A Final Operational Configuration (FOC). In September 2011, the Finnish Defence Forces and Patria signed an agreement to provide ballistic protection for onboard personnel across the NH90 fleet. In June 2011, nine Finnish NH90s participated in the Finnish Defense Forces ' main field exercise, transporting 157 soldiers across 320 kilometers in two rotations; their performance was described as having exceeded expectations. In January 2015, it

1008-411: A certain role. Since its introduction into service, the NH90 has suffered several technical issues, which have delayed active deployment of the type by some operators. It is a key next-generation helicopter for many NATO countries: some have opted to stick with the type while others have chosen to discontinue operations. In 2022, Norway terminated the program and demanded a full refund. Australia withdrew

1134-408: A civilian version of the NH90 in 2004. As of March 2024, 515 airframes had been delivered, including 24 different variants used by 14 countries. In 2010, German tabloid Bild reported that German Army experts had concerns that the helicopter was not yet ready for the transportation of combat troops. They stated that the seats were rated for only 110 kg (240 lb), not considered enough for

1260-553: A cost-cutting measure some nations and services have been tempted to use what are essentially commercial helicopters for military purposes. For example, it has been reported that China is carrying out a rapid enlargement of its assault helicopter regiments with the civilian version of the Russian Mil Mi-17 . These helicopters without armour and electronic counter measures will function well enough for training exercises and photo opportunities but would be suicidal to deploy in

1386-588: A defence industry consortium developing future armoured platforms and upgrading existing ground combat capabilities in 2021. The consortium comprises 19 leading defence companies from different EU countries. Patria's history begins in 1921 with the establishment of the Finnish Air Force Aircraft Factory at Suomenlinna. The operations begin with licensed manufacturing of the German Hansa-Brandenburg aircraft, with

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1512-522: A delivery contract for over 200 6x6 armoured personnel carriers developed in the joint development programme including also support and training systems. The vehicle deliveries will take place between 2021 and 2029. Finland and Patria also signed a letter of intent for Finland's future serial deliveries. As part of the European Defence Industrial Development Programme (EDIDP), Patria was selected to lead

1638-513: A digital 3D map. The cabin was outfitted with a central rappelling and extraction device, gun mounts for M3M .50 caliber machine guns and foldable step. The rear ramp has a quick removable leaf doors system, fast-rope beam, fold-able step and various improvements made to enable the door's use mid-flight. Future gear, such as the Safran Eurofl'Eye distributed aperture system (DAS) and Thales TopOwl helmet-mounted display, may be integrated in

1764-511: A dozen users, and it remains in production. The NH90 was developed in response to North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO) requirements for a battlefield helicopter which would also be capable of being operated in naval environments. It was developed and is manufactured by NHIndustries , a collaborative company owned by Airbus Helicopters (formally Eurocopter), Leonardo (formerly AgustaWestland ), and Fokker Aerostructures . The first prototype conducted its maiden flight in December 1995;

1890-561: A firm order of 8 aircraft (4 TTH, 4 NFH) and an option for 2 additional TTH. In September 2012, NHI performed the first flight of the Belgium's Tactical Transport Helicopter (TTH), which is broadly similar to the French NH90 "Caiman" version. In January 2013, eight NH90s were on firm order. On 1 August 2013, Belgium received its first NH90 NFH at Full Operational Capability (FOC). On 23 October 2013, Belgium's first NH90 TTH entered service,

2016-468: A fully equipped soldier. Heavy infantry weapons could not be adequately secured and the cabin floor was prone to damage, citing an anecdote of damage caused by footwear. The helicopter could only land on firm ground, with obstacles not exceeding 16 cm (6.3 in). Troops carrying full equipment could not use the rear ramp due to weight-limitations placed on it. Adding a door machine gun was not possible due to space taken by troop ingress and egress; there

2142-463: A metallic counterpart. The four main rotor blades are also composed of composite materials, increasing fatigue strength and lifespan while providing greater damage tolerance. The unobstructed main cabin area is entered either by large sliding doors on either side of the fuselage or via a rear ramp. The cabin is designed to accommodate modular equipment packages to enable the rotorcraft to be rapidly reconfigured, providing for operational flexibility. In

2268-423: A missing flight software update. The MRH-90 returned to service on 6 April 2023. In July 2023, another MRH-90 crashed at night during Exercise Talisman Sabre off the coast of Hamilton Island , Queensland , resulting in four missing crew members. By early August, the cockpit and human remains were found in a debris field in 40 meters of water, consistent with a catastrophic impact. On 8 August 2023, divers recovered

2394-459: A multi-role, medium-sized military helicopter for both land and maritime operations. According to Flight International, the NH90 has the distinction of being the first helicopter in the world to be developed in line with NATO requirements. As such, the design of the NH90 meets with multiple national and international standards, including military airworthiness processes in Germany, France, Italy, and

2520-604: A press release in 2017 criticising the NH90's cost, citing the statistics of 2015: "The NH90s cost $ 1,182 an hour to fly and that is 2.5 times more expensive than the Iroquois they replaced. They're also unreliable, chewing through $ 3.3 million worth of spares in just two years." The operating cost of a NH90 HCV (High Cabin Version) was reported in Swedish media during 2018 as at least 200,000 SEK (later specified as 242,000 SEK in

2646-512: A quick guide" in 2021, detailing problems with the NH90 since 2005 and why they will be replaced. There the CPFH is listed as "the helicopter's estimated operating costs were $ 30,000 to $ 40,000 per hour, which is 'higher than those combat aircraft with sophisticated weapons and sensor systems' (p. 72). More recently, the cost has increased to $ 50,000 per hour." Axel Aloccio, head of NHI since mid-September 2022, believes that most problems stem from

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2772-490: A range of customizable avionics systems, dependent on customer selection and purpose. On some models, French firm Thales Group provides various parts of the avionics, such as the glass cockpit , full-colour multifunction displays, tactical mission and encrypted communication systems, the TopOwl helmet-mounted sight/display , IFF and autonomous navigation systems, and the electrical power generation system. Other systems include

2898-574: A report on the MRH-90, citing procurement errors and development deficiencies delaying final operational capability (FOC), originally set for that month, until April 2019, nearly five years later than planned. NH90s first delivered in 2007 had not yet validated any of the 11 set operational capability milestones, and forced redesigns included bolstered cabin floors and windscreens, rappelling hooks, and door gunner positions; obtaining spare parts and fleet sustainment had also been more costly. The Australian Army

3024-414: A second phase with electrical and mechanical provisions made for their installation. The first five are to be delivered in 2025 and the last five in 2026 to the 4th Special Forces Helicopter Regiment . In 2021, French NH90s rescued six people (and one stranded rescuer) from a capsized yacht in an offshore civilian sea rescue, in extreme sea and wind conditions at the edge of its flight envelope. The weather

3150-803: A stabilised mount along with multi-function lasers capable of acting as laser rangefinder and targeting designators for weapons systems. By nature of the mission, the observation helicopter's primary weapons are its sensor suite and communications equipment. Early observation helicopters were effective at calling for artillery fire and airstrikes . With modern sensor suites, they are also able to provide terminal guidance to anti-tank guided weapons, laser-guided bombs and other missiles and munitions fired by other armed aircraft. Observation helicopters may also be armed with combinations of gun and rocket pods and sometimes anti-tank guided missiles or air-to-air missiles , but in smaller quantities than larger attack helicopters. Primarily, these weapons were intended for

3276-443: A temperature range from −40 °C to +50 °C, and up to a maximum altitude of 20,000 feet. Power is provided by a pair of turboshaft engines, dependent on customer selection, the NH90 is either fitted with Rolls-Royce Turbomeca RTM322 or General Electric CT7-8F powerplants; exhaust gases from the engines are filtered through an infrared suppression system for decreased sensory visibility. The NH90 has three gearboxes including

3402-419: A troop-transport capacity, the cabin can accommodate up to 20 fully equipped soldiers, or up to 12 stretchers in a medical evacuation role, some light vehicles may also be transported; the main cabin is equipped with environmental control systems and sound proofing measures to improve passenger conditions. The NH90 can be equipped with various mission-specific systems, including modular armor plating around

3528-454: A weakness. Emplaced insurgents and local sympathisers may observe such facilities covertly and gather intelligence on the schedules and routes of patrols and convoys. With this intelligence the insurgents can time their operations to avoid the COIN forces or plan ambushes to engage them, depending on their own tactical situation. Helicopters return a measure of surprise and tactical flexibility to

3654-452: Is a multi-purpose helicopter . A utility military helicopter can fill roles such as ground attack , air assault , military logistics , medical evacuation , command and control , and troop transport . While not essential to combat operations, helicopters give a substantial advantage to their operators by being a force multiplier . To maximise their impact, helicopters are utilised in a combined arms approach. High-intensity warfare

3780-646: Is characterized by large arrays of conventional armed forces, including mass formations of tanks , with significant air defenses. Helicopter armament and tactics were changed to account for a less-permissive flight environment. Anti-tank missiles , such as the SS.11 and the Aérospatiale SS.12/AS.12 were developed and mounted on French military helicopters. In turn, the United States adapted its BGM-71 TOW for firing from helicopters and eventually developed

3906-405: Is placed around the pilots, engines, transmission, and fuel tanks. Fuel lines, control cables and power to the tail rotor may also be shrouded by Kevlar armour. The most heavily armoured helicopters are attack, assault and special forces helicopters. In transport helicopters the crew compartment may or may not be fully armoured, a compromise being to give the passengers Kevlar lined seats but to leave

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4032-502: Is planned to enter service starting in 2025. The first flight of the Sea Tiger was in late November 2023. Military helicopter Military helicopters play an integral part in the sea, land and air operations of modern militaries. Generally manufacturers will develop airframes in different weight/size classes which can be adapted to different roles through the installation of mission specific equipment. To minimise development costs

4158-457: Is responsible for production and supply chain consisting of four production lines: Airframe & Structure Operations, Engine, Component & Training Operations, Land Operations and System & Integration Operations. In June 2023, Patria and Lockheed Martin signed the first Memorandum of Agreement (MoA) for direct work within Finland's F-35 industrial participation programme. This MoA covers

4284-650: Is responsible for the Finnish accounts with focus on the Finnish Defence Forces. Finland consists of four business areas: Air force, Army, Navy and Joint & Security. Global Division is responsible for accounts outside Finland. Global consists of market areas Nordics, Europe, and World. Portfolio is responsible for products and services as well as their development and sales support, consisting of six product and service lines: Fleet Availability, Life cycle management, Training & User Support, C5ISTAR, Mission Capability as well as New Products and Services. Operations

4410-560: Is slow to align, and the weakness of the cabin floor to withstand the impact of soldiers' boots – a problem also encountered in German service. In March 2014, it was announced that a Dutch NH90 had suffered higher than expected fuselage wear and corrosion following an extended deployment at sea; analysis by the Dutch National Aerospace Laboratory attributed the corrosion to design and assembly flaws. However,

4536-534: Is that personnel and cargo can be moved to and from locations without requiring a runway for takeoffs and landings. Cargo is carried either internally, or externally by slung load where the load is suspended from an attachment point underneath the aircraft. Personnel are primarily loaded and unloaded while the helicopter is on the ground. However, when the terrain restricts even helicopters from landing, personnel may also be picked up and dropped off using specialized devices, such as rescue hoists or special rope lines, while

4662-624: The AGM-114 Hellfire . Meanwhile, the Soviet Union adapted the 3M11 Falanga missile for firing from the Mil Mi-24 . In the air, attack helicopters armed with anti-tank missiles, and one or more unarmed, or lightly armed scout helicopters operate in concert. The scout helicopter, flying at low level in a nap-of-the-earth approach, attempts to both locate the enemy armoured columns and to map out approaches and ambush positions for

4788-603: The Australian Defence Force (ADF) announced plans to replace its UH-60 Black Hawk and Westland Sea King helicopters; a further 34 NH90s were ordered for a total of 46; four were manufactured in Europe while 42 being manufactured locally by Australian Aerospace (an Airbus Helicopters subsidiary) in Brisbane . Its ADF designation and name "MRH-90 Taipan" refers to its use as a "Multi Role Helicopter" and refers to

4914-679: The Combat search and rescue (CSAR) mission. Some services use a version of their operational helicopters, usually in the light class, for pilot training. For example, the British have used the Aérospatiale Gazelle both in operations and as a trainer. Some services also have an ab initio phase in training that uses very basic helicopters. The Mexican Navy has acquired a number of the commercially available Robinson R22 and R44 helicopters for this purpose. A utility helicopter

5040-585: The European Space Agency . During late 2004, the company was actively perusing work on Airbus ' A350 XWB and A400M Atlas , as well as Boeing 's 787 . Patria also provides support and maintenance, repair, and operations (MRO) services for various aircraft. During 2009, it won a contract to modernise the Finnish Air Force 's 49 BAE Systems Hawk 51/51As with CMC Electronics 's Cockpit 4000 avionics suite; months later, Patria

5166-557: The German Army , the first customer to receive production aircraft, accepted delivery of its first NH90 TTH. In April 2010, the Royal Netherlands Navy was the first customer to receive the navalised NH90 NFH variant. In June 2014, the consortium announced that it had completed delivery of the 200th NH90; at that point, the backlog of orders was reported as reaching out to 2020. In order to alleviate delays and reduce

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5292-697: The Mil Mi-28 N, the Kamov Ka-52 , and the AH-64D Longbow , incorporate sensors and command and control systems to relieve the requirement for scout helicopters. To enhance the combat endurance of these missile-armed helicopters, transport helicopters were used to carry technicians, reloads and fuel to forward locations. Establishing these forward arming and refuel points (FARP) at pre-arranged locations and times allowed armed or attack helicopters to re-arm and refuel, often with their engines running and

5418-563: The aftermath of the American invasion of Iraq helicopters have been used as aerial supply trucks and troop transports to prevent exposure to ambushes set by the Iraqi insurgency . Due to the cost and complexity of training and support requirements, insurgent forces rarely have access to helicopters. The major Western European helicopter manufacturers are Leonardo S.p.A. (formerly AgustaWestland ) and Eurocopter Group . In North America,

5544-611: The licensed production of those companies products, whilst building up their own ability to design and manufacture helicopters through a process of workshare and technology transfer. In India, Hindustan Aeronautics Limited is the main helicopter manufacturer for the Indian Armed Forces . In the Soviet planned economic system, the Mil and Kamov OKBs were responsible only for the design of helicopters. A re-organisation of

5670-554: The "Bonn rebate" deal, France received a 12% discount on its 68 Army NH90s; a November 2012 Senate report put the French TTH unit price at €28.6M after discount, set on the assumption of total orders of 605 aircraft by 2020. Cuts to France's order would have led to workshare reallocation; possibly including French Navy NFH90s being assembled in Italy and Fokker performing maintenance of French TTHs. On 29 May 2013, France formally ordered

5796-627: The 1960s, the development of the turboshaft engine and transistor technology changed the face of maritime helicopter aviation. The turboshaft engine allowed smaller helicopters, such as the Westland Wasp , to operate from smaller vessels than their reciprocating engine predecessors. The introduction of transistors allowed helicopters, such as the Sikorsky SH-3 Sea King , to be equipped with integral dunking sonar , radar and magnetic anomaly detection equipment. The result

5922-521: The Australian ones in Brisbane ). Spain has a final assembly line at Albacete . The Marignane assembly line can reportedly complete up to 22 NH90s per year. Major components are produced by each of the shareholding companies: Items built by the shareholding companies are then distributed to the six locations for assembly and flight test (Marignane, France; Tessera, Italy; Donauwörth, Germany; Halli, Finland; and Brisbane, Australia). In late 2006,

6048-750: The Belgian Navy declared its NH90s had attained initial operational readiness; on 28 August 2015, the first rescue mission performed by a Belgian Navy NH90 took place. In June 2020, the Strategic Defence Review (STAR) of Belgium planned to phase out the 4 TTH helicopters by 2024 due to their high operating costs and low availability. They are planned to be replaced, along with the Agusta A109, by 15 Airbus H145M helicopters. The 4 NFH variants are to remain operational and be provided with currently-lacking sensors and weapons for ASW. There

6174-556: The Belgian ministry of defence announced a 40% cut to the NH90's annual flight time, stating that, while the Westland Sea Kings retired in 2019 had a cost per flight hour of around €5,000, the NH90 was more than double that at €12,000. per hour. Additionally, the reliability was impacted by a lack of service personnel to keep the fleet flightworthy. The Australian Parliament released their report "MRH-90 Taipan helicopter:

6300-432: The British, Spanish, and Italian navies, the larger helicopters form the main anti-submarine strength of carrier air wings. When operating from shore bases, the helicopters are used as anti-submarine pickets to protect against hostile submarines loitering outside military ports and harbours; their endurance and payload providing advantages over smaller helicopters. Soviet maritime helicopters, operating from its cruisers, had

6426-555: The Bundestag approved the purchase of 31 more helicopters for the navy to replace their 22 Sea Lynx Mk88A helicopters via a deal valued at €2.7 billion, including spares, accessories, and training material. This version, called the Sea Tiger, is designed for ASW and ship warfare (and can also do SAR), and operates in conjunction with German Navy Frigates. The Sea Tiger variant is similar to the French NFH Caiman version, it

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6552-706: The COIN commander. Patrols need not start and end in the same place (the main entrance of the local compound), nor do supply convoys need follow the same roads and highways. During the Rhodesian Bush War , the Rhodesian military developed and refined " Fireforce " tactics, using small flights of light helicopters, the helicopters would be equipped as gunships to directly attack insurgents with aerial gunfire and also as either an airborne command/observation post or troop transport. Once contact had been established against enemy guerillas paratroopers would be dropped by

6678-605: The Finnish Defence Administration and the HX programme. The main task has been ensuring national security of supply, maintenance of the equipment and meeting industrial cooperation requirements. The fighter procurement decision will also open Patria access to the global F-35 supply chain. In 2021, Finland and Latvia signed a frame agreement with Patria for a production phase management of the joint 6x6 armoured vehicle system. In addition, Latvia and Patria signed

6804-501: The Harpoon deck-locking system, automatic main rotor blade and tail folding mechanisms, and other deck handling systems to conduct all-weather ship-borne operations; it is also typically outfitted with dipping sonar and sonobuoy processing equipment. The NH90 is equipped with emergency floats, which deploy in case of a water landing and are designed to give personnel enough time to exit the helicopter before it sinks. The NH90 features

6930-548: The LZ. The advantage of air assault over an airborne assault is the ability of the helicopters to continually resupply the force during the operation, as well as to transport the personnel and equipment to their previous location, or a follow-on location if the mission dictates. The first reconnaissance and observation aircraft were balloons, followed by light airplanes, such as the Taylorcraft L-2 and Fieseler Fi 156 . As

7056-483: The Longbow radar system, but not enough sets have been bought to equip the whole force. The systems can be fitted to only those airframes that need it, or when finances allow the purchase of enough units. Most military helicopters are armoured to some extent; however, all equipment is limited to the installed power and lift capability and the limits installed equipment places on useful payload. The most extensive armour

7182-404: The MRH-90. In March 2023, an Army MRH-90 carrying 10 personnel appeared to malfunction mid-flight while hovering over a Jervis Bay beach at night amid a training exercise, leading to a controlled ditch into the water. All ten personnel survived and the helicopter was towed onto a nearby beach. Following the incident, all MRH-90s were grounded pending an investigation. Early indications pointed to

7308-473: The Main Gearbox (MGB), Intermediate Gearbox (IGB), and a Tail Rotor Gearbox (TGB). According to Airbus Helicopters, the NH90 possesses the lowest radar signature in its class, principally due to its diamond-shaped composite fuselage. The NH90 features an advanced composite airframe, designed for ballistic tolerance, a high level of crashworthiness , lower weight, and 30 per cent greater endurance than

7434-628: The McKinnley report, ordered by the Swedish defence ministry) per hour flown, or about US$ 28,000. In contrast, the Hkp 16, MH-60 Blackhawks in Swedish service had a cost of 40,000 SEK per hour, something that sparked a heated debate not least since it was revealed that the defence minister had demanded that the purchase had to be a joint procurement with the other Nordic countries which in turn excluded all other contenders. (see Nordic Standard Helicopter Program ) Debate among defence bloggers commenced when it

7560-687: The NH90 could be produced at Airbus' facility in Mississippi, US. Although a civilian version has not been produced, the NH90 was designed from the start to potentially meet FAA certification requirements; it has been speculated that the high-cabin variant already in production would be typical of passenger rotorcraft. If produced, it would fit between the AS365 Dauphin and the AS322 Super Puma in Airbus' product line. NHI studied making

7686-590: The NH90 fleet. On 18 June 2015, delivery of the final Finnish NH90 took place. Patria has produced components for numerous aircraft manufacturers; it has manufactured elements of the Airbus A380 , the world's largest passenger airliner, as well as being a long-term supplier to the Airbus A320 family and the Embraer ERJ-145 . Patria has also produced components for multiple programmes headed by

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7812-635: The NH90 formally achieved in-service status with the French Navy, being initially used to perform search and rescue and maritime counter-terrorism operations. The first seven NH90s were delivered to an interim "Step A" configuration; later deliveries were to the "Step B" standard and produced at a rate of two per year until 2020. For the ASW role in French service, it is equipped with dipping sonar, acoustic buoys and MU90 torpedoes . The French Navy formally cleared

7938-417: The NH90 is the first helicopter in the world to be equipped with full fly-by-wire flight controls. A four-axis autopilot is also integrated with the fly-by-wire system, as are mission and navigation systems, to enable greater autonomy during operations and reduce pilot workload. The flight envelope of the NH90 is capable of all-weather day-and-night operations, ship-borne operations during high sea states, across

8064-709: The Netherlands. In October 2001, Finland signed a contract for 20 NH90 TTHs for the Finnish Army to replace its ageing fleet of Mil Mi-8 helicopters. This decision was done a group as part of the Nordic Standard Helicopter program along with Sweden and Norway. In March 2008, NHIndustries began NH90 deliveries to Finland; deliveries had been delayed from an initial 2004 date, to minimize further delay, aircraft were first delivered to an Initial Operational Configuration (IOC-) and Nearly Operational Configuration (IOC+), to be later modified by Patria into

8190-402: The Netherlands; conformance with FAR 29 and MIL-STDS design standards, as well as DEF-STN 00-970 icing conditions performance and electro-magnetic compatibility. It is produced in two principal variants, the battlefield Tactical Transport Helicopter (TTH) and the maritime NATO Frigate Helicopter (NFH). One key innovation of the rotorcraft is the four-channel fly-by-wire control system employed;

8316-611: The Tactical Transport Helicopter (TTH) and the NATO Frigate Helicopter (NFH). These two main variants share about 75% commonality with each other. Many of the operators have requested specific configurations to their own helicopter fleets, thus each country's NH90 is effectively customized to the end-user's requirements. During the development phase of the programme in the 1990s, both technical and funding problems were experienced. In June 2000,

8442-400: The Tactical Transport Helicopter (TTH) for army use and the navalised NATO Frigate Helicopter (NFH); each customer typically has various alterations and customizations made to their own NH90 fleets, such as different weapons, sensors, and cabin arrangements, to meet their own specific requirements. In addition, local construction of airframes was accommodated in many cases, giving participants in

8568-719: The United States to rescue downed aircrews and injured personnel in remote areas of the China Burma India Theater , from April 1944 until the war's end. The use of helicopters for rescue during combat increased during the Korean War and the Algerian War . In the Vietnam War the USAF acquired Sikorsky S-61R (Jolly Green Giant) and Sikorsky CH-53 Sea Stallion (Super Jolly Green Giant) helicopters for

8694-557: The additional role of guidance of the cruisers' long range anti-shipping missiles. Maritime helicopters are navalised aircraft for operation from ships. This includes enhanced protection against salt water corrosion , protection against ingestion of water, and provision for forced ditching at sea. As helicopters came into military service, they were quickly pressed into service for search and rescue and medical evacuation . During World War II, Flettner Fl 282s were used in Germany for reconnaissance , and Sikorsky R-4s were used by

8820-462: The aircraft hovers overhead. Air assault is a military strategy that relies heavily on the use of transport helicopters. An air assault involves a customized assault force that is assembled on the pick-up zone and staged for sequential transport to a landing zone (LZ). The idea is to use the helicopters to transport and land a large number of troops and equipment in a relatively short amount of time, in order to assault and overwhelm an objective near

8946-456: The assault role in actual combat situations. The intention of China appears to be to retrofit these helicopters with locally produced electronics and armour when possible, freeing available funds to allow rapid creation of enough regiments to equip each of its Group Armies , allowing a widespread buildup of experience in helicopter operations. Attack helicopters are helicopters used in the anti-tank and close air support roles. The first of

9072-427: The attack helicopters. Late-model scout helicopters include laser designators to guide missiles fired from the attack helicopters. After finding a target, the scout helicopter can locate it and then direct the attack helicopter's missile where to fire. The attack helicopters have only to rise from cover briefly to fire their missiles before returning to a concealed location. Late-development of attack helicopters, such as

9198-731: The availability rate was reported as having surpassed 50 percent. All were in Final Operational Configuration (FOC) in 2018. The French government had initially ordered a total of 34 NH90 TTHs for the French Army Light Aviation and 27 NFH for the Navy . Both versions will be named "Caïman" and final assembly will be carried out by Airbus Helicopters . Early on, the French Army stated its intention to buy 68 NH90 in two separate contracts. Under

9324-546: The basic airframes can be stretched and shortened, be updated with new engines and electronics and have the entire mechanical and flight systems mated to new fuselages to create new aircraft. For example, the Bell UH-1 Iroquois (known as the "Huey") has given rise to a number of derivatives through stretching and re-engining, including the Bell AH-1 . Modern helicopters have introduced modular systems which allow

9450-648: The cabin area for undertaking high-risk missions and an ice protection system for operations within cold climates. It can also make use of the Helicopter In-Flight Refuelling System (HIFR) as well as additional internal and external fuel tanks to conduct extended range missions. Other equipment includes a wire strike protection system , rappelling system, hoist , cargo hook , search light and various seating options, including crashworthy foldable seats. For performing maritime operations, such tasked NH90s are typically equipped with

9576-477: The capability of the early helicopters was as plane guard - tasked with the recovery of pilots who had ditched near an aircraft carrier . As helicopter technology matured with increased payload and endurance , anti-submarine warfare (ASW) was added to the helicopter's repertoire. Initially, helicopters operated as weapons delivery systems, attacking with air-launched torpedoes and depth charges based on information provided by its parent and other warships. In

9702-723: The cause. On 18 May, the ADF announced that the MRH-90 fleet was grounded due to engine issues since the April incident. All MRH-90s used the Rolls-Royce Turbemeca RTM322. The cause of the failure was determined as the compressor blade contacting the engine casing, leading to new preventative inspections; flights resumed in July 2010. In July 2014, the Australian National Audit Office released

9828-409: The company. Patria celebrated its 100-year anniversary in 2021. The theme of the anniversary was "The foundation for a secure future". History provides a strong foundation for a safe future, growth, working together and success. The decision on Finland's future F-35 fighter jets in 2021 is a significant opportunity for Patria, and the company has been actively involved in the preparations supporting

9954-470: The compartment for the most part unarmoured. Survivability is enhanced by redundancy and the placement of components to protect each other. For example, the Blackhawk family of helicopters uses two engines and can continue to fly on only one (under certain conditions), the engines are separated by the transmission and placed so that if attacked from any one flank, the engine on that flank acts to protect

10080-408: The complexity of manufacturing a large number of NH90 variants, NHIndustries (NHI) proposed the adoption of a simplified baseline airframe which could be configured to the individual customer's requirements. Between 2004 and 2016, the production lead times for the NH90 had reduced from 18 months to 7.5 months. In 2014, worldwide production of the NH90 peaked at 53 helicopters per year. In October 2015,

10206-447: The contractual framework for F-35 forward fuselage assemblies in Finland by Patria. Patria launched in the beginning of 2022 its new growth strategy which aims at ambitious growth by the end of 2025. Also a new operating model to support the growth strategy was also prepared and was taken into use at the beginning of 2022. Cooperation negotiations covering the whole Patria were conducted in good cooperation between all personnel groups and

10332-514: The counter-reconnaissance fight—to eliminate an enemy's reconnaissance assets—but they can also be used to provide limited direct fire support or close air support. Among the first practical uses of helicopters when the Sikorsky R-4 and R-5 became available to British and American forces was deployment from navy cruisers and battleships, at first supplementing and later replacing catapult-launched observation aircraft . Another niche within

10458-659: The country. On 23 June 2013, German Army NH90s were declared operationally capable of medical evacuation operations. Following an engine failure and controlled crash in Uzbekistan in July 2014, the army temporarily grounded the type for investigation. In December 2015, it was announced that production of the German Navy's variant of the NH90 NFH, named Sea Lion , had commenced; a refit of the German Army's TTH variant

10584-553: The deal, including Patria's 50 per cent ownership in Norwegian ammunition manufacturer Nammo . The transaction placed a total value of 283.5 million euros on Patria. During 2001, Patria had secured contracts to build several elements of the NHIndustries NH90 helicopter, such as the rear fuselage, rear ramp, sponsons and sliding doors; the firm also signed Memorandum of understanding to perform final assembly of both

10710-583: The delivery of the 250th NH90 was formally accepted by the Italian Army . In 2015, the rate of NH90 production declined, reportedly due to countries choosing to delay their orders and some contracts having been fulfilled; in 2016, the Finnish final assembly line became the first to close with its orders completed. In 2023, the 500th NH90 was delivered to the French Army, from the Marignane facility. Although no US order has been taken, it has been noted that

10836-504: The first military helicopters became available, their ability to both maneuver and to remain in one location made them ideal for reconnaissance. Initially observation helicopters were limited to visual observation by the aircrew, and most helicopters featured rounded, well-glazed cockpits for maximum visibility. Over time, the human eye became supplemented by optical sensor systems. Today, these include low light level television and forward looking infrared cameras. Often, these are mounted in

10962-527: The fleet was not grounded. In response, NHIndustries launched a corrosion prevention programme and enacted several design modifications. In December 2014, Dutch NH90 deliveries, which had been temporarily halted earlier in the year, restarted after the majority of identified points were addressed and an agreement was made by the manufacturer to bear the cost of developing modifications, repairs, and preventive measures against corrosion. Ron Mark , New Zealand First Deputy Leader and Spokesperson for Defence put out

11088-568: The flight data recorder. On 29 September 2023, the Australian Government announced that the MRH-90 will not return to ADF service, bringing forward the previously planned retirement date of December 2024. Officials stated the early retirement was not meant to preempt the outcome of the crash investigation, which was still ongoing; the fleet has been grounded since the July 2023 crash. At the time of its grounding, there were 38 MRH-90s in service. Australia filled service gaps created by

11214-439: The grounding, operational pauses, and early retirement by extending the older S-70A's service life, by buying additional Chinook helicopters as a stop gap, leasing six AW139 , as well as the urgent procurement of a replacement helicopter. The ADF invested about $ 3.5 billion over two decades in the program. In August 2022, Australia approved the purchase of 40 UH-60M Blackhawks to replace the MRH-90. In 2007, Belgium signed on for

11340-517: The helicopter and its engines. In March 2008, deliveries of Finland's NH90 commenced; deliveries had been delayed from an initial 2004 date thus, to minimize further delay, helicopters were first delivered to an Initial Operational Configuration (IOC-) and Nearly Operational Configuration (IOC+), to be later modified by Patria into a Final Operational Configuration (FOC). In September 2011, the Finnish Defence Forces and Patria signed an agreement to provide ballistic protection for onboard personnel across

11466-616: The helicopter industry in Russia created Russian Helicopters , a holding company to bring together Mil, Kamov, and other helicopter manufacturing and maintenance plants. Patria (company) Patria Plc ( Finnish : Patria Oyj , Swedish : Patria Abp ) is a Finnish provider of defence , security and aviation life-cycle support services. Patria is owned 50.1% by the Finnish government and 49.9% by Norwegian defense group Kongsberg Defense & Aerospace AS . In accordance with

11592-412: The helicopter started in 1993. The first prototype, PT1, made the type's first flight on 18 December 1995. The second prototype, PT2, first flew on 19 March 1997 and the third prototype, PT3, on 27 November 1998. On 12 December 2002, PT3 became the first helicopter to fly exclusively with fly-by-wire controls after the removal of mechanical back-up controls. The NH90 was developed into two main variants:

11718-429: The last was delivered on 13 November 2014. From first delivery until the last, three NH90s flew 34 hours a month for a total of 450 flight hours with a 67 percent availability rate, making Belgium one of the type's most intensive users. Two NH90 NFHs for the navy were delivered, the final two were delivered by early 2015 to replace their Westland Sea King helicopters for Search and Rescue operations. On 21 August 2015,

11844-405: The manufacturer. NHI's long-term plan for the NH90 had reportedly included service life extensions, avionics upgrades, and possibly adding heavier armament for the army versions, such as rockets or guided missiles. In 2020, an upgraded TFRA2 Special Operations version was announced, featuring numerous specialized modifications on the TTH, including extra fuel tanks, twin gun mounts, fast roping from

11970-402: The maximum size of the helicopters and the minimum size of the ships. Increasing miniaturisation of electronics, better engines and modern weapons now allow even the modern, destroyer-based, multi-role helicopter to operate nearly autonomously in the ASW, anti-shipping, transport, SAR and reconnaissance roles. Medium- and large-sized helicopters are operated from carriers and land bases. In

12096-775: The modern attack helicopters was the Vietnam era Bell AH-1 Cobra , which pioneered the now classic format of pilot and weapons officer seated in tandem in a narrow fuselage, chin mounted guns, and rockets and missiles mounted on stub wings. To enable them to find and identify their targets, some modern attack helicopters are equipped with very capable sensors such as a millimeter wave radar system. Transport helicopters are used for transporting personnel (troops) and cargo in support of military operations. In larger militaries, these helicopters are often purpose-built for military operations, but commercially available aircraft are also used. The benefit of using helicopters for these operations

12222-427: The new growth strategy Patria's operating model and organisation have been renewed in the beginning of 2022. In the new operating model Patria's target is to utilise all Patria people's competences comprehensively. The operating model with business units (excl. Millog) is dissolved and a unified model consisting of strong core functions – Finland, Global, Portfolio and Operations – were created instead: Finland Division

12348-802: The partner states placed a large production order, worth US$ 8.6 billion, for a total of 366 helicopters. Additional orders have since followed from customers in Europe, Asia, and Australia. By April 2013, a total of 529 NH90s of all variants were on order by various customers. As of early 2023, there were 597 on order, and the 500th airframe was delivered at that time. The NH90 was initially intended to be produced at three exporting final assembly lines (FAL): Cascina Costa in Italy for AgustaWestland, Marignane in France and Donauwörth in Germany for Airbus Helicopters. The Nordic and Australian contracts stipulated production locally (the Nordic ones at Patria in Finland and

12474-576: The program a chance to develop experience in construction. However, despite many advanced features, there have been a series of complaints about the overall experience, including delays in delivery, high maintenance, software issues, and durability, leading to the early retirement of some fleets. Nevertheless, it has served in increasing numbers and roles in the 2010s, taking on naval search and rescue, ASW, troop transport, special operations, various resupply and disaster relief, and medical evacuation. In several cases, NH90 variants can be quite specialized towards

12600-493: The region. In October 2020, France signed a contract to develop the TFRA Standard 2 configuration for the French Army's special forces using the final batch of 10 NH90 TTH already ordered. A design study for the new configuration began 18 months earlier in cooperation with Belgium and Australia. The first phase featured a Safran EuroFLIR 410 electro-optical system (EOS), external 500 kg (1,100 lb) fuel tanks and

12726-559: The removable rear door, Helmet Mounted Sight Digital Display, and various enhanced or extra visual sensors with displays for increased situational awareness. In June 2024, plans were announced for the Block 1 upgrade, which was also called software release 3 (SWR3); called a "roadmap milestone", this involves an upgrade to NH90 software, weapons systems, and capabilities. In 2004, Australia announced it would order 12 NH90s to supplement its Army's aging S-70A Black Hawk helicopters. In June 2006,

12852-431: The rotors still turning, and to quickly return to the front lines. In counter-insurgency (COIN) warfare, the government force establishes its presence in permanent or temporary military bases from which to mount patrols and convoys. The government forces seek to deter the insurgent forces from operating, and to capture or kill those that do. The operation of forces from fixed bases linked by a fixed network of roads becomes

12978-596: The same airframe to be configured for different roles, for example the Augusta Westland AW101 "Merlin" in Royal Navy service can be rapidly configured for ASW or transport missions in hours. To at the same time retain flexibility and limit costs, it is possible to fit an airframe for but not with a system, for example in the US Army's Boeing AH-64D Apache variants are all fitted to be able to take

13104-511: The same day the older generation of Black Hawks was retired, the Australian Government announced plans to replace the Army's MRH-90 fleet with new UH-60M Black Hawks; their retirement date was moved to 2024. In April 2022, the RAN ceased flying their MRH-90s and stored them. In May 2022, the government announced that the RAN's six MRH-90s would be replaced with more MH-60R Seahawks; it already operated 24 Seahawks, delivered between 2013 and 2016, alongside

13230-424: The second batch of 34 NH90 TTHs for just under €1 billion. In January 2016, France placed an order for six additional NH90 TTHs. The French Army took delivery of its first NH90 TTH in December 2011. Just one week after entering service, a French NH90 rescued 19 people from supply ship TK Bremen at night. On 21 December 2012, the French Navy received its first NH90 NFH in final operating capability. In December 2010,

13356-483: The teething issues of a new system that take a few years of service to find and correct, and that most are either solved or will be addressed with the transformation plan called "New Horizon" that Aloccio's predecessor, Nathalie Tarnaud Laude, launched. This program of system-wide changes had the aim of 50-60% average global fleet availability by the end of 2022 through better spare part availability and localisation of overhaul services. It also seeks to lower operating costs,

13482-491: The three primary manufacturers are Boeing ( Boeing Vertol and McDonnell Douglas ), Bell Helicopter and Sikorsky Aircraft . In Japan, the three main manufacturers of helicopters are the aviation arms of the Japanese conglomerates Mitsubishi , Kawasaki and Fuji Heavy Industries . These companies initially followed a business model based on forming strategic partnerships with foreign, usually American, companies with

13608-408: The time between maintenance inspections and overhaul for dynamic components have both been raised by 50% in order to keep them synchronized, from 600/1200 flight hours to 900/1800 hours respectively. The Australian fleet retirement is being dismantled for spare parts, which it is hoped will increase the supply of spare parts for other users. The NH90 was designed to fulfill a NATO staff requirement for

13734-453: The total production volume between 1922 and 1926 amounting to 120 aircraft. Patria's centenary issue describes the company's history. During March 2016, it was announced that Norwegian defense group Kongsberg Defense & Aerospace AS had agreed terms to purchase a 49.9% stake in Patria; Walter Qvam, Kongsberg chief executive, stated that the company was keen to leverage new advantages from

13860-808: The transmission and the engine on the other side from damage. Aviation electronics, or avionics , such as communication radios and navigation aids are common on most military helicopters. Specialized avionics, such as electronic countermeasures and identification friend or foe systems, are military specific systems that can also be installed on military helicopters. Other payload or mission systems are installed either permanently or temporarily, based on specific mission requirements; optical and IR cameras for scout helicopters, dunking sonar and search radar for anti-submarine helicopters, extra radio transceivers and computers for helicopters used as airborne command posts . Armour, fire suppression, dynamic and electronics systems enhancements are invisible to casual inspection; as

13986-462: The troop transport variant; the first three serial production NH90s were delivered to the army in December 2006. By January 2013, a total of 80 aircraft were on order for the army. In 2009, the German Navy was also considering the procurement of up to 30 NFH for its new Maritime Helicopter. In March 2013, the German government chose to reorganise the NH90 procurement; the Army's fleet of 122 NH90s

14112-494: The type first entered operational service in 2007. As of June 2022, the NH90 logged 327,053 flight hours in the armed forces of thirteen countries. It is an advanced but high maintenance military helicopter employed by a dozen countries in two major versions. It has a naval version that can land on ships and is used for sea rescue and submarine warfare, and an army version that has been used for transporting cargo, people, medivac, and special operations. The NH90 has two main variants:

14238-497: The type in 2023, well ahead of the planned retirement date of 2037. Currently in the mid-2020s, a dozen countries continue to use the NH90, while additional orders and improvements equate to ongoing and widespread use of the type. Efforts are ongoing to increase roles, upgrades, and increase the service life and ease of maintenance. In 1985, France, West Germany, Italy, the Netherlands, and the United Kingdom teamed to develop

14364-558: The type to perform ASW duties in 2012, clearance to perform ASW missions followed in 2013, allowing the NH90 to take over missions previously performed by the Westland Lynx and Aérospatiale Super Frelon rotorcraft fleets. On 3 November 2014, the French Army Light Aviation deployed two of its NH90s to Mali ; both helicopters had been fitted with three additional fuel tanks to fly the four-day ferry flight to

14490-477: Was also no provision for fast roping or paratrooper equipment. In response, the German Defense Ministry proclaimed that this article referred to a prototype, not to the production model; the specifications for which were not even finalised at the time. The prototype evaluation and its results were described as a normal procedure in an ongoing design process. In November 2011, the MRH-90 program

14616-565: Was also underway at the same time. Since late 2014, Germany has promoted the creation of a multinational NH90 force for combat MEDEVAC missions; the taskforce would comprise up to 20 NH90s. The Navy's version, known as the NH90 Sea Lion, is based on the NH90 NFH. It first flew on 8 December 2016. The 18 NH90 Sea Lions are equipped with improved navigation and communications equipment, permitting operation within civil airspace, along with additional sensors for military missions. The IFF system

14742-676: Was also updated. Designed to replace Germany's Westland Sea Kings in the SAR and Vertrep roles, the Sea Lion was to enter service with the German Navy by the second quarter of 2019. The first NFH Sea Lion was accepted in October 2019. On 26 November 2019, the German Navy stated that the NH90 was not operational yet due to deficiencies in technical documentation not allowing safe operations. The NFH Sea Lion entered service in June 2020. By February 2023, 18 Sea Lion had been delivered. On 20 November 2020,

14868-481: Was an aircraft able to more quickly respond to submarine threats to the fleet without waiting for directions from fleet vessels. Today, maritime helicopters such as the Sikorksy SH-60 Seahawk and the Westland Lynx are designed to be operated from frigates , destroyers and similar size vessels. The desire to carry and operate two helicopters from frigate- and destroyer-sized vessels has affected

14994-407: Was discussion in 2023 to sell the 4 TTH and buy one more NFH; together with the acquisition of new helicopters the NFH will no longer be tasked with SAR missions. Belgium is expanding its defense budget and naval capabilities in the 2030s, and naval NH90s are planned to be upgraded and to operate from in-service frigates . In addition, Belgium is buying a NH90 mission flight trainer in partnership with

15120-485: Was forced to operate its aging S-70A Black Hawks beyond its planned retirement date. Due to the delays, Australia received an additional helicopter for a total of 47. By September 2015, most flaws had reportedly been addressed. In 2015, the Australian Army decided to delay retiring 20 Black Hawks by four years until the end of 2021 in order to develop a special operations capable MRH-90. This required developing

15246-494: Was investigating the possibility of setting up a multinational helicopter unit to operate these 22 NH90s as a shared NATO resource with other countries using and contributing to the force. In July 2012, Germany's NH90 fleet reached a combined total of 5,000 flight hours. In April 2013, up to 4 German Army NH90 TTHs were deployed in Afghanistan in a Forward Air Medical Evacuation role in support of coalition forces operating in

15372-612: Was placed on the Australian Department of Defence's "Projects of Concern" list. The most serious problem identified by a diagnostic review, which caused a brief grounding in 2010, is compressor blade rubbing caused by the bending of a spool in the Rolls-Royce Turbomeca RTM322 engine due to uneven cooling after shutdown. Other problems identified include failure of transmission oil cooler fans, windscreen cracking, an inertial navigation system that

15498-426: Was reduced to 82; 18 NH90s previously ordered for the army were converted to the NFH maritime variant for the navy instead. On 26 June 2013, the German defense committee declared that the order for a combined 202 NH90 and Tiger helicopters was to be reduced to 157. In December 2014, Germany announced that, in addition to the 80 troop transports firmly on order, it was considering an option for an additional 22 NH90s; it

15624-404: Was reported that Finnish NH90s had been experiencing considerable reliability issues, at one time in 2014 fleet availability dipped to 19%, and some spare parts had up to seven months waiting time. By early 2015, the combined NH90s fleet had accumulated a total of 7,000 flight hours, and had an availability rate of 40%. On 18 June 2015, delivery of the final Finnish NH90 took place. In November 2015,

15750-431: Was revealed that much of these costs was the result of the accounting practices forced upon the Swedish defence forces; the purchase cost and annual services had been factored in, meaning that the cost per hour increases the less flight time per year the fleet gets. In this debate, it was also pointed out that the Finnish defence had budgeted CPFH to €15,900 in 2017, which the year after had been lowered to €10,000. In 2020,

15876-433: Was so extreme the first rescuer was stranded when the winch line snapped, but the rescuer along with the boaters, who were in a life raft were able to be retrieved by an additional NH90. At the end of 2022, the French Navy finally retired its last Alouette III helicopters which had been in service for 60 years, and was on the training helicopters before pilots moved onto the NH90, along with Dauphin. The German Army procured

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