NHIndustries NH90

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.<ref name="top 10">Perry, Dominic. "Rotor club: Our top 10 most influential helicopters." Template:Webarchive Flight International, Flight Global, 21 November 2014.</ref> 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 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; 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.<ref name="nh90">{{#invoke:citation/CS1|citation |CitationClass=web }}</ref> 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: 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 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 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 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.<ref name=":3">{{#invoke:citation/CS1|citation |CitationClass=web }}</ref><ref>{{#invoke:citation/CS1|citation |CitationClass=web }}</ref><ref name=":4">{{#invoke:citation/CS1|citation |CitationClass=web }}</ref>

Development

Origins

File:F-ZWTI NH.90 prototype (3217161683).jpg

NH90 prototype in 2004

In 1985, France, West Germany, Italy, the Netherlands, and the United Kingdom teamed to develop a NATO battlefield transport and anti-ship/anti-submarine helicopter for the 1990s. The United Kingdom left the team in 1987.<ref name= Frawley_NH_90>Frawley, Gerard. "NHIndustries NH 90". The International Directory of Military Aircraft, 2002/2003. Aerospace Publications, 2002. Template:ISBN.</ref> On 1 September 1992, NHIndustries signed an NH90 design-and-development contract with NAHEMA (NATO Helicopter Management Agency).<ref>{{#invoke:citation/CS1|citation |CitationClass=web }}</ref> This agency represented the four participating states: France, Germany, Italy, and the Netherlands. Portugal later joined the agency in June 2001. Design work on the helicopter started in 1993.<ref name= Prototype>Template:Cite press release</ref> The first prototype, PT1, made the type's first flight on 18 December 1995.<ref name=Frawley_NH_90/><ref name=Prototype/> The second prototype, PT2, first flew on 19 March 1997 and the third prototype, PT3, on 27 November 1998.<ref name= Prototype /> 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.<ref>MacKenzie, Christina. "NH90 prototype takes off with fly-by-wire controls." Template:Webarchive Flight International, 5 January 2004. p. 15.</ref>

The NH90 was developed into two main variants: the Tactical Transport Helicopter (TTH) and the NATO Frigate Helicopter (NFH).<ref name=Frawley_NH_90/> These two main variants share about 75% commonality with each other.<ref name= "flight cuts teeth">Hoyle, Craig. "In Focus: NH90 Caiman cuts teeth with French navy." Template:Webarchive Flight International, 19 June 2013.</ref> 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.<ref>{{#invoke:citation/CS1|citation |CitationClass=web }}</ref> In June 2000, the partner states placed a large production order, worth US$8.6 billion, for a total of 366 helicopters.<ref name=Frawley_NH_90/><ref>{{#invoke:citation/CS1|citation |CitationClass=web }}</ref> 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.<ref name=DN20130408 /> As of early 2023, there were 597 on order, and the 500th airframe was delivered at that time.<ref name=":18">{{#invoke:citation/CS1|citation |CitationClass=web }}</ref>

Production

File:Helicopter from Brisbane loop-1and (cropped).jpg

In progress NH90 production model over Brisbane, 2009

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 the Australian ones in Brisbane). Spain has a final assembly line at Albacete.<ref name= "awst_20070101">"News Breaks", Aviation Week & Space Technology, 1 January 2007.</ref><ref>{{#invoke:citation/CS1|citation |CitationClass=web }}</ref> The Marignane assembly line can reportedly complete up to 22 NH90s per year.<ref name= "flight cuts teeth"/>

Major components are produced by each of the shareholding companies:

• Airbus Helicopters France 31.25% (Engines, rotors, electrical system, flight control, and the core avionics systems)
• Airbus Helicopters Deutschland 31.25% (Forward and center fuselage, fuel system, communications, and avionics control systems)
• Fokker 5.5% (Tail structure, doors, sponsons, landing gear, and the intermediate gearbox)
• AgustaWestland 32% (Rear fuselage, main gearbox, hydraulic system, automatic flight control and plant management systems, power plant, and the NFH mission system)

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).<ref>{{#invoke:citation/CS1|citation |CitationClass=web }}</ref>

File:Nh90 cockpit.jpg

The glass cockpit of an NH90

File:NH-90 F-ZWTG for Sweden (3140099427).jpg

The first NH90 for Sweden rolls off of the assembly line

In late 2006, the German Army, the first customer to receive production aircraft, accepted delivery of its first NH90 TTH.<ref>"First Delivery." Template:Webarchive Rotor Online, Airbus helicopters, December 2006.</ref> In April 2010, the Royal Netherlands Navy was the first customer to receive the navalised NH90 NFH variant.<ref>{{#invoke:citation/CS1|citation |CitationClass=web }}</ref> 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.<ref name= "simplify 90">Perry, Dominic. "NH Industries plans 'simplified' NH90 for future customers." Template:Webarchive Flight International, 25 June 2014.</ref> In order to alleviate delays and reduce 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.<ref name= "simplify 90"/> Between 2004 and 2016, the production lead times for the NH90 had reduced from 18 months to 7.5 months.<ref name= "prod down">Lert, Frédéric and Charles Forrester. "NH90 production winds down globally." Template:Webarchive IHS Jane's Defence Weekly, 17 January 2016.</ref>

In 2014, worldwide production of the NH90 peaked at 53 helicopters per year.<ref name= "prod down" /> In October 2015, the delivery of the 250th NH90 was formally accepted by the Italian Army.<ref>"250th NH90 helicopter delivered." Template:Webarchive Rotor hub, Shepard Media, 16 October 2015.</ref> 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.<ref name= "prod down"/> In 2023, the 500th NH90 was delivered to the French Army, from the Marignane facility.<ref name=":18" />

Although no US order has been taken, it has been noted that 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.<ref name=":19">{{#invoke:citation/CS1|citation |CitationClass=web }}</ref> NHI studied making a civilian version of the NH90 in 2004.<ref>{{#invoke:citation/CS1|citation |CitationClass=web }}</ref>

As of March 2024, 515 airframes had been delivered, including 24 different variants used by 14 countries.<ref name=":6">{{#invoke:citation/CS1|citation |CitationClass=web }}</ref>

Performance concerns

File:ILA 2010 Samstag 101.JPG

The lowered rear cargo ramp of a German Army NH90. The NH90 TTH can be produced with a rear ramp, one difference with the standard Frigate model.

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 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 was also no provision for fast roping or paratrooper equipment.<ref>Bundeswehr NATO-Hubschrauber NH90: Modernster Helikopter der Welt hat viele Mängel – Politik Template:Webarchive. Bild.</ref> 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.<ref>{{#invoke:citation/CS1|citation |CitationClass=web }}</ref>

In November 2011, the MRH-90 program was placed on the Australian Department of Defence's "Projects of Concern" list.<ref>Template:Cite press release</ref> The most serious problem identified by a diagnostic review, which caused a brief grounding in 2010,<ref>Template:Cite press release</ref> 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 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.<ref>{{#invoke:citation/CS1|citation |CitationClass=web }} Template:Dead link</ref>

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, the fleet was not grounded. In response, NHIndustries launched a corrosion prevention programme and enacted several design modifications.<ref>{{#invoke:citation/CS1|citation |CitationClass=web }}</ref> 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.<ref name= "nh90 dutch resume">Perry, Dominic. "Dutch NH90 deliveries to resume." Template:Webarchive Flight global, 16 December 2014.</ref>

Operational costs

File:Landing NH90 Zrms Zeeland 02.jpg

Dutch NH90 NFH coming in for a landing on a ship in 2016

Ron Mark, New Zealand First Deputy Leader and Spokesperson for Defence put out 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."<ref>"RNZAF's NH90s Unreliable Money Guzzlers". scoop.co.nz</ref>

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 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.<ref>{{#invoke:citation/CS1|citation |CitationClass=web }}</ref><ref>Template:Citation.</ref><ref>Template:Cite news</ref> (see Nordic Standard Helicopter Program) Debate among defence bloggers commenced when it 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.<ref>{{#invoke:citation/CS1|citation |CitationClass=web }}</ref> 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.<ref>{{#invoke:citation/CS1|citation |CitationClass=web }}</ref>

In 2020, 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.<ref>{{#invoke:citation/CS1|citation |CitationClass=web }}</ref>

The Australian Parliament released their report "MRH-90 Taipan helicopter: 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."<ref>{{#invoke:citation/CS1|citation |CitationClass=web }}</ref>

Axel Aloccio, head of NHI since mid-September 2022, believes that most problems stem from 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, 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.<ref>{{#invoke:citation/CS1|citation |CitationClass=web }}</ref><ref>{{#invoke:citation/CS1|citation |CitationClass=web }}</ref> The Australian fleet retirement is being dismantled for spare parts, which it is hoped will increase the supply of spare parts for other users.<ref name=":6" />

Design

File:Hkp14 NHIndustries NH-90.JPG

Swedish Army HCV version, with a higher cabin height

File:NH90 NH-215 Tour de Sky 2014-08-10 09.JPG

NH90 interior seating (Finnish TTH)

The NH90 was designed to fulfill a NATO staff requirement for a multi-role, medium-sized military helicopter for both land and maritime operations.<ref name= "nhi require"/> 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.<ref name= "flight wired 92">Moxon, Julian. design "Wired into the Future." Template:Webarchive Flight International, 8 September 1998.</ref> As such, the design of the NH90 meets with multiple national and international standards, including military airworthiness processes in Germany, France, Italy, and 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.<ref name="nhi require">"Requirements Basis." Template:Webarchive NHI Industries, Retrieved: 20 December 2014.</ref> It is produced in two principal variants, the battlefield Tactical Transport Helicopter (TTH) and the maritime NATO Frigate Helicopter (NFH).<ref name= "agusta over"/>

File:HENSOLDT SferiSense 500.jpg

HENSOLDT SferiSense 500

File:NHIndustries NH90 TTH French Army Air Corps EAD PAS 2013 04 tail rotor detail.jpg

NH90 tail rotor

File:ILA 2024, Schoenefeld (ILA43972).jpg

Armed variant

One key innovation of the rotorcraft is the four-channel fly-by-wire control system employed; the NH90 is the first helicopter in the world to be equipped with full fly-by-wire flight controls.<ref name="top 10"/><ref name= "flight wired 92"/> 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.<ref name= "airbus over"/> The flight envelope of the NH90 is capable of all-weather day-and-night operations, ship-borne operations during high sea states, across a temperature range from −40 °C to +50 °C, and up to a maximum altitude of 20,000 feet.<ref name= "nhi require"/> 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.<ref name= "agusta over"/><ref>"Designs for RTM322 variant at 'advanced stage'." Template:Webarchive Flight International, 13 October 2003.</ref> The NH90 has three gearboxes including 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.<ref name="airbus over" />

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 a metallic counterpart.<ref name= "airbus over">"NH90." Template:Webarchive Airbus Helicopters, Retrieved: 9 January 2016.</ref> The four main rotor blades are also composed of composite materials, increasing fatigue strength and lifespan while providing greater damage tolerance.<ref name= "airbus over"/> 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.<ref name= "agusta over"/><ref name= "airbus over"/> In 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.<ref name= "agusta over"/><ref name= "airbus over"/>

The NH90 can be equipped with various mission-specific systems, including modular armor plating around 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.<ref name= "agusta over"/> Other equipment includes a wire strike protection system, rappelling system, hoist, cargo hook, search light and various seating options, including crashworthy foldable seats.<ref name= "agusta over"/> For performing maritime operations, such tasked NH90s are typically equipped with 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;<ref name= "agusta over"/> it is also typically outfitted with dipping sonar and sonobuoy processing equipment.<ref name= "simplify 90"/> 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.<ref>{{#invoke:citation/CS1|citation |CitationClass=web }}</ref><ref name=":12">{{#invoke:citation/CS1|citation |CitationClass=web }}</ref>

File:NH90 per C-17 01.jpg

NH90 inside a C-17 for transport, 2020

The NH90 features 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.<ref name= "agusta over"/><ref>"On board the NH90." Template:Webarchive Thales Group, Retrieved: 20 December 2014.</ref> Other systems include 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.<ref name= "agusta over"/> In 2015, the NH90 became the first helicopter to receive a laser-based airborne collision avoidance system.<ref>"First Finmeccanica – Selex ES anti-collision laser system operational on Italian Army NH90 TTH helicopter." Template:Webarchive Finmeccanica, 16 October 2015.</ref> Onboard mission systems feature a dual-redundant databus, are compliant with MIL-STD 1553, and are comprehensively managed via sensor fusion functionality.<ref name= "nhi require"/><ref name= "agusta over"/> 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 the manufacturer.<ref name= "simplify 90"/>

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.<ref name="Perry">{{#invoke:citation/CS1|citation |CitationClass=web }}</ref> 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 the removable rear door, Helmet Mounted Sight Digital Display, and various enhanced or extra visual sensors with displays for increased situational awareness.<ref name=":16">{{#invoke:citation/CS1|citation |CitationClass=web }}</ref>

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.<ref>{{#invoke:citation/CS1|citation |CitationClass=web }}</ref><ref>{{#invoke:citation/CS1|citation |CitationClass=web }}</ref> Standard 3 configuration of an NH90 includes stronger landing gear, automatic folding main rotor, 11 tonnes GTOW, enhanced communication and safety features.<ref name=":25">{{#invoke:citation/CS1|citation |CitationClass=web }}</ref> The first Standard 3 configuration NH90 helicopters were delivered in December 2024.<ref>{{#invoke:citation/CS1|citation |CitationClass=web }}</ref>

Operational history

Australia

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File:Australian Army (A40-003) NHI MRH-(cropped).jpg

Australian Army NH90

File:Australian MRH-90 lands on USS Green Bay (LPD-20) in July 2015.JPG

A Royal Australian Navy MRH-90 in 2015

In 2004, Australia announced it would order 12 NH90s to supplement its Army's aging S-70A Black Hawk helicopters.<ref>{{#invoke:citation/CS1|citation |CitationClass=web }}</ref> In June 2006, the Australian Defence Force (ADF) announced plans to replace its UH-60 Black Hawk and Westland Sea King helicopters;<ref>{{#invoke:citation/CS1|citation |CitationClass=web }}</ref> 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.<ref>Template:Cite news</ref> Its ADF designation and name "MRH-90 Taipan" refers to its use as a "Multi Role Helicopter" and refers to a native species of snake.<ref>{{#invoke:citation/CS1|citation |CitationClass=web }}</ref><ref>{{#invoke:citation/CS1|citation |CitationClass=web }}</ref><ref name="AAPnavynewhelo">Template:Cite news</ref> The first MRH-90 entered service in December 2007 with the Army.<ref name=":8">{{#invoke:citation/CS1|citation |CitationClass=web }}</ref> Six MRH-90s would be operated by 808 Squadron of the Royal Australian Navy (RAN), which was reformed in 2011 and recommissioned in 2013.<ref name="AAPnavynewhelo" /><ref>{{#invoke:citation/CS1|citation |CitationClass=web }}</ref><ref>{{#invoke:citation/CS1|citation |CitationClass=web }}</ref> Overall, there were 46 airframes in service, with a 47th kept as a spare.<ref>{{#invoke:citation/CS1|citation |CitationClass=web }}</ref>

On 20 April 2010, a MRH-90 suffered a single engine failure near Adelaide, landing safely at RAAF Base Edinburgh. NHIndustries personnel investigated the cause.<ref name=":9">Defence grounds choppers after engine malfunction Template:Webarchive. ABC (Australian Broadcasting Corporation) News</ref> On 18 May, the ADF announced that the MRH-90 fleet was grounded due to engine issues since the April incident.<ref name=":10">Defence grounds new chopper fleet Template:Webarchive. ABC (Australian Broadcasting Corporation) News</ref> All MRH-90s used the Rolls-Royce Turbemeca RTM322.<ref>{{#invoke:citation/CS1|citation |CitationClass=web }}</ref> 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.<ref name=":11">{{#invoke:citation/CS1|citation |CitationClass=web }}</ref>

In July 2014, the Australian National Audit Office released 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 was forced to operate its aging S-70A Black Hawks beyond its planned retirement date.<ref>Australian auditors slam bungled NH90 procurement Template:Webarchive, Flight global, 29 July 2014</ref> Due to the delays, Australia received an additional helicopter for a total of 47.<ref>{{#invoke:citation/CS1|citation |CitationClass=web }}</ref> By September 2015, most flaws had reportedly been addressed.<ref>Perrett, Bradley. "Airbus Fixing Remaining Australian NH90 Faults." Template:Webarchive Aviation Week, 18 September 2015.</ref>

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.<ref name= "ADM">Template:Cite news</ref><ref name="ANAO2020">Template:Cite book</ref> This required developing a Fast Roping and Rappelling Extraction System (FRRES) and a gun mount for the cabin door.<ref name="ADM"/><ref name="ANAO2020"/> 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.<ref>{{#invoke:citation/CS1|citation |CitationClass=web }}</ref><ref>Template:Cite news</ref> In February 2019, the first two of 12 MRH-90s were delivered to the 6th Aviation Regiment.<ref>Template:Cite news</ref><ref name="ANAO2020"/> In June 2021, all MRH-90s were temporarily grounded due to lack of maintenance and spare parts which had to be shipped from Europe.<ref>Template:Cite news</ref>

In December 2021, on 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;<ref>Template:Cite press release</ref><ref>Template:Cite news</ref> their retirement date was moved to 2024.<ref name=":14" /> In April 2022, the RAN ceased flying their MRH-90s and stored them.<ref name="Guardian2022">Template:Cite news</ref><ref>Template:Cite book</ref> In May 2022, the government announced that the RAN's six MRH-90s would be replaced with more MH-60R Seahawks;<ref>Template:Cite press release</ref><ref>Template:Cite news</ref> it already operated 24 Seahawks, delivered between 2013 and 2016, alongside the MRH-90.<ref>{{#invoke:citation/CS1|citation |CitationClass=web }}</ref>

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.<ref name=":0" /> Following the incident, all MRH-90s were grounded pending an investigation.<ref name=":0">Template:Cite news</ref> Early indications pointed to a missing flight software update.<ref>{{#invoke:citation/CS1|citation |CitationClass=web }}</ref><ref name=":1">{{#invoke:citation/CS1|citation |CitationClass=web }}</ref><ref name=":2">Template:Cite news</ref> The MRH-90 returned to service on 6 April 2023.<ref name=":2" /> 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.<ref name=":5">Template:Cite news</ref><ref name=":7">Template:Cite news</ref> By early August, the cockpit and human remains were found in a debris field in 40 meters of water, consistent with a catastrophic impact.<ref name=":2" /> On 8 August 2023, divers recovered the flight data recorder.<ref>{{#invoke:citation/CS1|citation |CitationClass=web }}</ref>

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.<ref>Template:Cite news</ref><ref name="Australia retirement 2023">Template:Cite press release</ref> 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.<ref name=":3" /> At the time of its grounding, there were 38 MRH-90s in service.<ref name=":02">{{#invoke:citation/CS1|citation |CitationClass=web }}</ref> Australia filled service gaps created by 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.<ref name=":14">{{#invoke:citation/CS1|citation |CitationClass=web }}</ref> In August 2022, Australia approved the purchase of 40 UH-60M Blackhawks to replace the MRH-90.<ref>Template:Cite press release</ref><ref>{{#invoke:citation/CS1|citation |CitationClass=web }}</ref>

Belgium

File:EBBE - NH Industries NH90-TTH - Belgian Air Component - RN-06 (40927070873).jpg

Belgian NH90 with two people on the winch, 2015

In 2007, Belgium signed on for a firm order of 8 aircraft (4 TTH, 4 NFH) and an option for 2 additional TTH.<ref>{{#invoke:citation/CS1|citation |CitationClass=web }}</ref> 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.<ref>{{#invoke:citation/CS1|citation |CitationClass=web }}</ref> In January 2013, eight NH90s were on firm order.<ref name=FI_WAF_2013>{{#invoke:citation/CS1|citation |CitationClass=web }}</ref> On 1 August 2013, Belgium received its first NH90 NFH at Full Operational Capability (FOC).<ref name= "belgium1">"Belgium Receives its First NH90 NFH Naval Helicopter." Template:Webarchive Deagel, 1 August 2013.</ref> On 23 October 2013, Belgium's first NH90 TTH entered service, 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.<ref>"Belgium Receives Last NH90 Troop Transport Helicopter." Template:Webarchive Aviation Week, 17 November 2014.</ref>

On 21 August 2015, the Belgian Navy declared its NH90s had attained initial operational readiness;<ref>{{#invoke:citation/CS1|citation |CitationClass=web }}</ref> on 28 August 2015, the first rescue mission performed by a Belgian Navy NH90 took place.<ref>Fiorenza, Nicholas. "Belgian NH90 Helicopter Conducts First Rescue Mission." Template:Webarchive Aviation Week, 31 August 2015.</ref>

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.<ref>{{#invoke:citation/CS1|citation |CitationClass=web }}</ref><ref>{{#invoke:citation/CS1|citation |CitationClass=web }}</ref> There 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.<ref>{{#invoke:citation/CS1|citation |CitationClass=web }}</ref> 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 using NH90 mission flight trainer in partnership with the Netherlands.<ref name=":21">{{#invoke:citation/CS1|citation |CitationClass=web }}</ref>

Finland

File:NH90 ÅUCS flygplats maj 2012.JPG

Finnish Defence Forces NH90 in Turku, Finland in May 2012

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.<ref>{{#invoke:citation/CS1|citation |CitationClass=web }}</ref> This decision was done a group as part of the Nordic Standard Helicopter program along with Sweden and Norway.<ref name=":17">{{#invoke:citation/CS1|citation |CitationClass=web }}</ref> In March 2008, NHIndustries began NH90 deliveries to Finland;<ref>{{#invoke:citation/CS1|citation |CitationClass=web }}</ref> 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 a Final Operational Configuration (FOC).<ref>"Finland Receives Suila’s NH90 Program Lessons Report." Template:Webarchive Defense Industry Daily, 5 March 2008.</ref><ref>Suila, Keijo. "Finland’s Helicopter Programme." Template:Webarchive Defmin, March 2008.</ref> In September 2011, the Finnish Defence Forces and Patria signed an agreement to provide ballistic protection for onboard personnel across the NH90 fleet.<ref>"Finnish NH90 helicopters to receive Patria ballistic protection." Template:Webarchive Patria, 1 September 2011.</ref>

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.<ref>Chéry, Stéphane. "Finnish NH90 helicopters demonstrate their operational capabilities: More than 150 soldiers are airlifted over a 320 km. distance in five hours." Template:Webarchive Airbus Helicopters, 21 June 2011.</ref> In January 2015, it 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.<ref>Template:Cite news</ref> By early 2015, the combined NH90s fleet had accumulated a total of 7,000 flight hours, and had an availability rate of 40%.<ref>Template:Citation</ref> On 18 June 2015, delivery of the final Finnish NH90 took place.<ref>{{#invoke:citation/CS1|citation |CitationClass=web }}</ref> In November 2015, the availability rate was reported as having surpassed 50 percent.<ref>{{#invoke:citation/CS1|citation |CitationClass=web }}</ref> All were in Final Operational Configuration (FOC) in 2018.Template:Citation needed

France

File:ARMEE DE TERRE 14 JUILLET 2018 (41597919840).jpg

French Army NH90, 2014

The French government had initially ordered a total of 34 NH90 TTHs for the French Army Light Aviation and 27 NFH for the Navy.<ref name="Hélicoptère CAIMAN Marine">{{#invoke:citation/CS1|citation |CitationClass=web }}</ref> Both versions will be named "Caïman" and final assembly will be carried out by Airbus Helicopters.<ref name= FI_WAF_2013 /><ref name=meret>{{#invoke:citation/CS1|citation |CitationClass=web }}</ref> Early on, the French Army stated its intention to buy 68 NH90 in two separate contracts.<ref name=DN20130408>Template:Cite news</ref> Under 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.<ref name=DN20130408 /> On 29 May 2013, France formally ordered the second batch of 34 NH90 TTHs for just under €1 billion.<ref>"France says orders 34 NH90 helicopters from NHIndustries." Template:Webarchive Reuters, 29 May 2013.</ref> In January 2016, France placed an order for six additional NH90 TTHs.<ref>Svitak, Amy. "France Orders Six Additional NH90 Helicopters." Template:Webarchive Aviation Week, 7 January 2016.</ref>

File:CAIMAN ARMEE DE TERRE 14 JUILLET 2018 (28535973447).jpg

French NFH (naval version), 2018

The French Army took delivery of its first NH90 TTH in December 2011.<ref>{{#invoke:citation/CS1|citation |CitationClass=web }}</ref> Just one week after entering service, a French NH90 rescued 19 people from supply ship TK Bremen at night.<ref>{{#invoke:citation/CS1|citation |CitationClass=web }}</ref> On 21 December 2012, the French Navy received its first NH90 NFH in final operating capability.<ref>{{#invoke:citation/CS1|citation |CitationClass=web }}</ref> In December 2010, 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.<ref name= "flight cuts teeth"/> For the ASW role in French service, it is equipped with dipping sonar, acoustic buoys and MU90 torpedoes.<ref>{{#invoke:citation/CS1|citation |CitationClass=web }}</ref> The French Navy formally cleared 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.<ref name= "flight cuts teeth" /> 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 the region.<ref>{{#invoke:citation/CS1|citation |CitationClass=web }}</ref>

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.<ref name= "Airbus2020">Template:Cite press release</ref> A design study for the new configuration began 18 months earlier in cooperation with Belgium and Australia.<ref name="DefenceNews2020">Template:Cite news</ref><ref>Template:Cite news</ref> The first phase featured a Safran EuroFLIR 410 electro-optical system (EOS), external Template:Convert fuel tanks and a digital 3D map.<ref name="Airbus2020" /> The cabin was outfitted with a central rappelling and extraction device, gun mounts for M3M .50 caliber machine guns and foldable step.<ref name="Airbus2020" /> 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.<ref name= "Airbus2020"/><ref name= "DefenceNews2020" /> Future gear, such as the Safran Eurofl'Eye distributed aperture system (DAS) and Thales TopOwl helmet-mounted display, may be integrated in a second phase with electrical and mechanical provisions made for their installation.<ref name="Airbus2020"/><ref name= "DefenceNews2020" /> The first five are to be delivered in 2025 and the last five in 2026 to the 4th Special Forces Helicopter Regiment.<ref name="DefenceNews2020"/>

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.<ref name=":22">{{#invoke:citation/CS1|citation |CitationClass=web }}</ref> The weather 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.<ref name=":22" /> 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.<ref>{{#invoke:citation/CS1|citation |CitationClass=web }}</ref><ref>{{#invoke:citation/CS1|citation |CitationClass=web }}</ref>

Germany

File:2017-06-10 154512 Tag der Bundeswehr NH90 (cropped).jpg

German Army NH90 at the ILA Berlin Air Show 2016

The German Army procured the troop transport variant; the first three serial production NH90s were delivered to the army in December 2006.<ref>{{#invoke:citation/CS1|citation |CitationClass=web }}</ref> By January 2013, a total of 80 aircraft were on order for the army.<ref name= FI_WAF_2013 /> In 2009, the German Navy was also considering the procurement of up to 30 NFH for its new Maritime Helicopter.<ref>{{#invoke:citation/CS1|citation |CitationClass=web }}</ref> In March 2013, the German government chose to reorganise the NH90 procurement; the Army's fleet of 122 NH90s was reduced to 82; 18 NH90s previously ordered for the army were converted to the NFH maritime variant for the navy instead.<ref name="Germany finalises cuts to NH90, Tiger helicopter orders">{{#invoke:citation/CS1|citation |CitationClass=web }}</ref> 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.<ref>Template:Cite news</ref> 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 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.<ref>Perry, Dominic. "Germany proposes 'shared' multinational NH90 helicopter fleet." Template:Webarchive Flight International, 1 December 2014.</ref><ref>"NH90: Europe’s Medium Helicopter Now Available for NATO Pooling." Template:Webarchive Defense Industry Daily, 2 December 2014.</ref>

File:Mehrzweckhubschrauber NH90 mit Wolf.jpg

German Army NH90 lifts Wolf vehicle

In July 2012, Germany's NH90 fleet reached a combined total of 5,000 flight hours.<ref>"Germany’s Bundeswehr Reaches the 5,000 Flight-Hour Milestone With Its NH90 Fleet." Template:Webarchive Eurocopter, September 2012.</ref> 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 the country.<ref>{{#invoke:citation/CS1|citation |CitationClass=web }}</ref> On 23 June 2013, German Army NH90s were declared operationally capable of medical evacuation operations.<ref>German NH90s Operational In Medevac Role, Aviation week, 25 June 2013</ref> Following an engine failure and controlled crash in Uzbekistan in July 2014, the army temporarily grounded the type for investigation.<ref>Kucera, Joshua. "Helicopter Crash Complicates Germany-Uzbekistan Base Negotiations." Template:Webarchive Eurasianet, 28 October 2014.</ref> 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 was also underway at the same time.<ref>Jennings, Gareth. "Germany begins NH90 Sea Lion production, retrofits for TTH variant." Template:Webarchive IHS Jane's Defence Weekly, 1 December 2015.</ref> 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.<ref>Perry, Dominic. "Germany still pushing multinational NH90 medevac fleet." Template:Webarchive Flight International, 20 January 2016.</ref>

The Navy's version, known as the NH90 Sea Lion, is based on the NH90 NFH. It first flew on 8 December 2016.<ref name="DM_NH90_first_flight">Template:Cite press release</ref><ref name= "DW20161208">{{#invoke:citation/CS1|citation |CitationClass=web }}</ref> 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 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.<ref>{{#invoke:citation/CS1|citation |CitationClass=web }}</ref> The first NFH Sea Lion was accepted in October 2019.<ref name=":23">{{#invoke:citation/CS1|citation |CitationClass=web }}</ref> 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.<ref>{{#invoke:citation/CS1|citation |CitationClass=web }}</ref> The NFH Sea Lion entered service in June 2020.<ref>{{#invoke:citation/CS1|citation |CitationClass=web }}</ref> By February 2023, 18 Sea Lion had been delivered.<ref name=":24">{{#invoke:citation/CS1|citation |CitationClass=web }}</ref>

On 20 November 2020, 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.<ref>{{#invoke:citation/CS1|citation |CitationClass=web }}</ref> 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.<ref name=":23" /> The Sea Tiger variant is similar to the French NFH Caiman version, it is planned to enter service starting in 2025.<ref name=":24" /> The first flight of the Sea Tiger was in late November 2023.<ref>{{#invoke:citation/CS1|citation |CitationClass=web }}</ref>

Greece

In August 2003, Greece ordered 20 NH90s with an option for 14 more.<ref>"Greece Signs the Contract for 20 NH90 Helicopters Plus 14 in Option". NH Industries, 1 September 2003.</ref> In early 2013, the German newspaper Bild alleged that Airbus officials paid €41 million in bribes to Greek officials to secure the order; Airbus stated that the claim was "groundless".<ref>"Airbus Helicopters rejects bribery allegations in Greek NH-90 deal." Template:Webarchive Reuters, 23 March 2015.</ref> On 12 December it was stated that deliveries would start again after an embargo by the Hellenic Government, with four helicopters being of the SPECOPS specification.

By early 2017, 12 NH90s had been delivered and were in service, with eight aircraft yet to be delivered.<ref>{{#invoke:citation/CS1|citation |CitationClass=web }}</ref><ref>{{#invoke:citation/CS1|citation |CitationClass=web }}</ref> By December 2023, there were 16 NH90 in service, which operated alongside around twelve AS332 Super Puma and 60 older UH-1H (AB-205) as multirole helicopters; at this time it was announced the UH-60 was selected to replace both these older types.<ref>{{#invoke:citation/CS1|citation |CitationClass=web }}</ref>

Italy

File:Italian Army - NH90 helicopter landing at Farah Base in Afghanistan 2019.jpg

An Italian Army NH90 landing at Farah Air Base, Afghanistan, 2019

In June 2000, Italy signed an initial contract for a batch of 60 TTH (Tactical Transport Helicopter) for the Italian Army, along with a further 46 NFH (NATO Frigate Helicopter) and 10 TTH for the Italian Navy.<ref>{{#invoke:citation/CS1|citation |CitationClass=web }}</ref> On 30 December 2007, the first NH90 TTH was formally handed over to the Italian Army.<ref>Hoyle, Craig. "Picture: Italian army receives first NH90 transport helicopter." Template:Webarchive Flight International, 9 January 2008.</ref> On 23 June 2011, the navy received its first NH90, which was delivered to an interim MOC (Meaningful Operational Capability) standard, capable of performing training, search and rescue, and utility operations; anti-submarine and anti-surface warfare capabilities were not initially available until aircraft are retrofitted to a FOC (Final Operational Capability) standard.<ref>Peruzzi, Luca. "PARIS: Italy receives first naval NH90 helicopter." Template:Webarchive Flight International, 23 June 2011.</ref> In May 2013, the Italian Army took delivery of the first NH90 TTH of a FOC standard;<ref>"Italian Army Takes Delivery of Its First NH90 TTH Helicopter in FOC Configuration." Template:Webarchive AgustaWestland, 2 May 2013.</ref> in November 2013, the Italian Navy took delivery of its first FOC-standard NH90 NFH.<ref>"Italian Navy Receives First NH90 NFH in FOC." Template:Webarchive AgustaWestland, 11 November 2013.</ref> The Italian NH90 fleet uses the GE T700-T6E1 turbine engine.<ref>{{#invoke:citation/CS1|citation |CitationClass=web }}</ref> Italian NH90s are used for the following tasks tactical troop transport according NHI as reported by HeliHub news: logistics support, special operations, cargo resupply and hoisting, medical evacuations, light vehicle transport, disaster relief, and emergency response operations.<ref name=":20" />

File:Italian Army - 5th Army Aviation Regiment "Rigel" NH90 helicopter during exercise Arctic Endeavour 2023.jpg

Italian NH90 in 2023

In 2012, Italy deployed a total of 5 Army NH90 TTHs to support troops participating in the International Security Assistance Force in Afghanistan.<ref>{{#invoke:citation/CS1|citation |CitationClass=web }}</ref> The NH90s, which were air-transported individually by allied Boeing C-17 Globemaster III cargo aircraft, replaced six Agusta/Bell 205s in performing tactical transport and medevac operations; Army Aviation Commander Gen. Enzo Stefanini stated that "…in Afghan conditions, the NH90 is delivering performance 15 percent above what was envisaged".<ref>Kington, Tom. "Plagued by Delays, NH90 Helos Head to Afghanistan Air Base." Defense News, 4 September 2012.</ref> In December 2022, Italy received its 60th and final TTH (Transport version) from the Venice Tessera facility which opened in 2010 and delivered its first aircraft in 2011.<ref name=":20">{{#invoke:citation/CS1|citation |CitationClass=web }}</ref>

In October 2023, the Italian Navy received its 56th and final NH90; that same month, the service also reportedly attained a cumulative 35,000 flights hours across its fleet.<ref name="Cenciotti">{{#invoke:citation/CS1|citation |CitationClass=web }}</ref>

Netherlands

File:NHI NH-90 NFH, Netherlands - Navy AN1981995.jpg

A NH90 NFH from the Royal Netherlands Navy

The Netherlands, one of the original supporters of the programme, ordered a total of 20 units, comprising 12 NFH and 8 TNFH for the Royal Netherlands Navy,<ref>{{#invoke:citation/CS1|citation |CitationClass=web }}</ref><ref name=FI_WAF_2013/><ref>{{#invoke:citation/CS1|citation |CitationClass=web }}</ref><ref>AirForces Monthly December 2013 pages 48-54</ref> They replace the Westland Lynx.<ref>{{#invoke:citation/CS1|citation |CitationClass=web }}</ref> In 2010, the Royal Netherlands Navy became the first customer to receive the NFH variant.<ref>Template:Cite news</ref>

In 2009, concerns surfaced that design changes had made the NH90 too heavy to operate from Dutch frigates for which they were ordered.<ref>{{#invoke:citation/CS1|citation |CitationClass=web }}</ref> In June 2014, the Dutch government decided not to accept the last batch of 7 NH90s due to some 100 shortcomings found in relation to the design, manufacture, and material choice of the rotorcraft, in particular corrosion in the presence of salt water.<ref>{{#invoke:citation/CS1|citation |CitationClass=web }}</ref><ref>{{#invoke:citation/CS1|citation |CitationClass=web }}</ref> In December 2014, deliveries restarted after the Dutch government came to an agreement with NHI, under which modifications and necessary repairs against corrosion would be made at the manufacturer's cost; 75 of the 100 shortcomings were also reported as having been solved.<ref name= "nh90 dutch resume" /><ref>{{#invoke:citation/CS1|citation |CitationClass=web }}</ref>

In April 2013, the navy deployed the type onboard Template:HNLMS to fight piracy in the Gulf of Aden.<ref>{{#invoke:citation/CS1|citation |CitationClass=web }}</ref> In November 2014, the navy deployed a single NH90 NFH to Somalia to support Operation Atalanta.<ref>{{#invoke:citation/CS1|citation |CitationClass=web }}</ref> In 2020 one NH90 was lost in an accident in the Caribbean, which reduced the fleet size to 19. In 2024, the Netherlands announced it would upgrade its remaining fleet with a mid-life upgrade including communications and weapon systems.<ref>{{#invoke:citation/CS1|citation |CitationClass=web }}</ref> On 5 September 2024, the Dutch MoD released the 2024 Defense Memorandum where 6 more NH90 NFH helicopters are to be ordered increasing the fleet to a total of 25.<ref>{{#invoke:citation/CS1|citation |CitationClass=web }}</ref>

New Zealand

File:RNZAF NH90 banking.jpg

A RNZAF NH90 in a tight turn

In July 2006, the New Zealand government signed a NZ$771 million (~€500M) contract to purchase eight NH90s (plus one extra for spares) to replace the Royal New Zealand Air Force's (RNZAF) fleet of 13 UH-1 Iroquois helicopters.<ref name=FI_WAF_2013/><ref name= NZarrival>{{#invoke:citation/CS1|citation |CitationClass=web }}</ref> For ease of manufacture and logistics, New Zealand deliberately chose its NH90 configuration to be nearly identical to the larger Australian fleet.<ref name= "janes nz"/> On 7 December 2011, deliveries to New Zealand formally began with the first two NH90s being airlifted by a leased Antonov An-124 cargo aircraft to RNZAF Base Ohakea. In February 2013, the first phase of the RNZAF's operational evaluation of the NH90 was completed, clearing the type to begin operational duties.<ref name= "janes nz"/>

Between September 2013 and July 2014, the first four delivered NH90s were retrofitted to a final operational configuration; later aircraft were already delivered to this standard.<ref>"NH90: Retrofit of New Zealand’s fleet completed." Template:Webarchive Airbus Helicopters, 31 July 2014.</ref> On 31 October 2014, the RNZAF announced that they had received into service the last of the eight NH90 TTHs.<ref name= "janes nz">Jennings, Gareth. "New Zealand receives final NH90 helo." Template:Webarchive IHS Jane's Defence Weekly, 30 October 2014.</ref> Following command structure changes in December 2014, the NH90 fleet was tasked with additional responsibilities, including casualty evacuation during search and rescue operations and providing transport services to the New Zealand Police and other government personnel.<ref>"NH90 takes over key helicopter." Template:Webarchive Sunlive, 21 December 2014.</ref> In April 2015, Defence Minister Gerry Brownlee questioned the inability of the NH90 fleet to contribute to relief efforts in the aftermath of Cyclone Pam, revealing that the fleet may be refitted with an automated blade and tail folding system to better enable ship borne deployments in the future.<ref>Kirk, Stacey. "Gerry Brownlee: NH90 helicopters purchase 'interesting'." Stuff, 2 April 2015.</ref>

File:NH90 medium utility helicopter (51033728696).jpg

RNZAF NH90 on displays at Wings Over Wairarapa 2021

In April 2016, NH90s flew 160 hours during relief missions in Fiji following the devastation of Cyclone Winston, and in transported variety of staff to different locations. The NH90 served alongside the NZ Seaprites, and with additional logistical support from fixed wing aircraft.<ref>Center for Excellence in Disaster Management and Humanitarian Assistance (CFE-DM) Case Study Series – Case Study No. 2 (Page 19-20)</ref> After the Kaikōura earthquakes in November 2016, the NH90s were critical in delivering aid and supplies to the area. They also assisted with civilian evacuations of foreign nationals.<ref>{{#invoke:citation/CS1|citation |CitationClass=web }}</ref>

File:RNZAF NH90s fly over the Manawatū region. 2025.jpg

A formation of seven NH90s flies over the Manawatū region.

In April 2017, the RNZAF's NH90 fleet was grounded following an in-flight single engine failure which forced an emergency landing.<ref>"Kaikoura visit cancelled because Air Force NH90 helicopters can't fly over water" Template:Webarchive NZ Herald, 20 April 2017.</ref>

In November 2021, New Zealand NH90, NZ3302, became the first of its type to reach 2,000 flying hours. According to the RNZAF, despite being delivered years after other customers, high serviceability rates allow New Zealand NH90s to fly more hours per aircraft than other operators.<ref>{{#invoke:citation/CS1|citation |CitationClass=web }}</ref> New Zealand states it was getting acceptable flight hours from its fleet and was not going to change its maintenance regime.<ref>{{#invoke:citation/CS1|citation |CitationClass=web }}</ref> In May 2025 the RNZAF flew a formation flight of 7 of the 8 airframes in the fleet from Base Ohakea, displaying their continued high availability rate.<ref>{{#invoke:citation/CS1|citation |CitationClass=web }}</ref>

Norway

In 2001, Norway ordered 14 NH90s for the Royal Norwegian Navy and Norwegian Coast Guard, originally set to be delivered in 2005–2008.<ref>{{#invoke:citation/CS1|citation |CitationClass=web }}</ref> This move came as part of the Nordic Standard Helicopter Program along with Sweden and Finland.<ref name=":17"/> In December 2011, the first NH90 was delivered.<ref>{{#invoke:citation/CS1|citation |CitationClass=web }}</ref> In July 2012, the Norwegian Deputy Defence Minister Roger Ingebrigtsen announced that "once our current Westland Lynx helicopters reach their end of life in 2014, we are going to have replacement helicopters on our naval vessels. If the NH90 hasn't been delivered, we will purchase another helicopterTemplate:Nbsp... considering that the aircraft were to be delivered by 2005, and that delivery is yet to start by 2012, our confidence in the producer isn't exactly on the rise"<ref>{{#invoke:citation/CS1|citation |CitationClass=web }}</ref> In August 2012, it was reported that the Royal Norwegian Air Force would recommend that the Ministry of Defence contact Sikorsky to check if H-60 Seahawk variants, such as the MH-60R, could be a viable NH90 alternative for anti-submarine warfare (ASW) duties. Defence Minister Espen Barth Eide stated "We still believe the marine version of the NH90 to be the optimal platform, and we hope to purchase it, but there are limits to our patience."<ref>{{#invoke:citation/CS1|citation |CitationClass=web }}</ref> By January 2016, six NH90s had been delivered.<ref>{{#invoke:citation/CS1|citation |CitationClass=web }}</ref>

A February 2018 report by the Norwegian Armed Forces found that its NH90 fleet offered insufficient flight hours for the intended roles; this report advised that all helicopters be converted to the ASW role as required by the Royal Norwegian Navy, as opposed to current plans which see 6 of the 14 NH90s in that role, and the rest configured for Norwegian Coast Guard duties. The Norwegian Ministry of Defence stated that it would consider the report's recommendations.<ref>{{#invoke:citation/CS1|citation |CitationClass=web }}</ref><ref>{{#invoke:citation/CS1|citation |CitationClass=web }}</ref> In September 2018, the Norwegian Armed Forces reversed course via an updated study which affirmed that, under certain conditions, the requirements for both the navy and coast guard can be met with 14 NH90s; these conditions specifically state good spare parts availability, sufficient aircraft for maintenance scheduling, and a sufficient overhaul capacity. Norwegian Minister of Defence Frank Bakke-Jensen added that, although the inauguration is challenging, the ministry holds on to the timeline in which phasing in will be completed by 2022.<ref>{{#invoke:citation/CS1|citation |CitationClass=web }}</ref><ref>{{#invoke:citation/CS1|citation |CitationClass=web }}</ref>

In February 2022, the Norwegian Minister of Defense again threatened to terminate the NH90 contract due to concerns over new delays and NHI not meeting contractual obligations, considering sourcing alternative helicopters.<ref>{{#invoke:citation/CS1|citation |CitationClass=web }}</ref> In June 2022, the Norwegian Minister of Defense Bjørn Arild Gram announced the Norwegian Defence Material Agency was given the task to terminate the NH90 contract due to NHI not meeting contractual obligations, and announced that the NH90 is taken out of operation with immediate effect.<ref>{{#invoke:citation/CS1|citation |CitationClass=web }}</ref> Ten months later, Gram stated that the Lockheed Martin MH-60R Seahawk would replace the NH90.<ref>Template:Cite news</ref> Norway also operates Westland Sea Kings and AW101 Merlins.<ref>{{#invoke:citation/CS1|citation |CitationClass=web }}</ref>

Oman

In July 2004, the Sultanate of Oman issued an order for a total of 20 NH90 TTHs for the Royal Air Force of Oman (RAFO). To cope with the extreme flight conditions of the Middle East, RAFO NH90s are equipped with enhanced power plants; the type is to replace the Agusta/Bell 205A and Agusta/Bell 212 used for tactical transport and search and rescue operations.<ref>{{#invoke:citation/CS1|citation |CitationClass=web }}</ref> On 23 June 2010, the first two NH90 TTHs were delivered to the RAFO at Musana Air Base.<ref>Parsons, Gary. "News: Oman finally gets its first NH90s." Template:Webarchive AIR International, 30 June 2010.</ref> By July 2012, ten NH90s had been delivered to the RAFO; in Omani service, the NH90 has established an endurance record, flying Template:Convert without refueling during a 5-hour 21 minute-long mission.<ref>Vogelaar, Rob. "Delivery of 2 NH90 to the Royal Air Force of Oman." Template:Webarchive aviationnews.eu, 2 July 2012.</ref> The Oman NH90 are known to use 20 mm gun pods, as opposed to smaller caliber door guns.<ref name="Perry"/>

Qatar

In 2014, Qatar announced that it was set to spend $2.76 billion on procuring NH90s to modernizing its military helicopter fleet.<ref>Template:Cite news</ref><ref name=FGQatarSpain>{{#invoke:citation/CS1|citation |CitationClass=web }}</ref> A contract valued at 3 billion euros was signed at the Dimdex defence exhibition on 14 March 2018, which finalised the purchase of 28 NH90s, comprising 16 NH90s for tactical transport and 12 NH90s for naval purposes.<ref name="DefenseNewsQatarOrder">{{#invoke:citation/CS1|citation |CitationClass=web }}</ref><ref name="JanesQatarOrder">{{#invoke:citation/CS1|citation |CitationClass=web }}</ref><ref name="NavalTodayQatarOrder">{{#invoke:citation/CS1|citation |CitationClass=web }}</ref> On 20 August 2018, Leonardo announced the contract with Qatar was made effective for a total sum of US$3.7 billion, covering the agreed upon number of NH90s, with an option with six more of each type.<ref>{{#invoke:citation/CS1|citation |CitationClass=web }}</ref><ref>{{#invoke:citation/CS1|citation |CitationClass=web }}</ref><ref>{{#invoke:citation/CS1|citation |CitationClass=web }}</ref>

On 23 December 2020, the first flights for Qatari-bound NH90s were being conducted for general evaluation.<ref>{{#invoke:citation/CS1|citation |CitationClass=web }}</ref> The first two NH90 for Qatar were handed over in March 2022.<ref>{{#invoke:citation/CS1|citation |CitationClass=web }}</ref>

Spain

File:NH 90 Sarrio. Festival Aéreo Internacional De Gijón. 2023. (53089005283).jpg

Spanish NH90

On 20 May 2005 the Council of Ministers authorised the acquisition of 45 NH90 TTHs; in December 2006, it was announced that a procurement contract for the Spanish Armed Forces had been signed. The Spanish NH90 variant features domestically assembled General Electric CT7-8F5 engines, customised communications suite, and Indra-developed electronic warning systems.<ref>"King Juan Carlos I Takes to the Air in the Spanish NH90 Helicopter." Template:Webarchive Airbus Helicopters, 17 September 2012.</ref> The original budget for the procurement was for €1,260 million; by 2010, this had grown to €2,463M.<ref name= PEAs>{{#invoke:citation/CS1|citation |CitationClass=web }}</ref> In June 2012, it was announced that Spain was negotiating to cut its purchase to 37 aircraft.<ref>{{#invoke:citation/CS1|citation |CitationClass=web }}</ref> On 18 December 2014, Spain took delivery of the first NH90 TTH, which had been assembled at Airbus Helicopters Albacete facility; by this point, the order had been reduced to a total of 22 NH90s of the TTH variant.<ref>Perry, Dominic. "Spain takes first NH90 helicopter and enhanced Tigers." Template:Webarchive Flight International, 18 December 2014.</ref> Spain chose the GE CT7-8F5 turbine engine for its fleet.<ref>{{#invoke:citation/CS1|citation |CitationClass=web }}</ref>

In January 2018, NHIndustries president Vincent Dubrule stated he was confident Spain would place a follow-on order by the end of 2018 for an additional 23 TTH NH90s, bringing the total back up to 45.<ref name=FGQatarSpain/> In September 2018, the Spanish government agreed to the purchase of the additional 23 TTH NH90s, including seven for naval purposes.<ref name= "JanesSpainGreenLight">{{#invoke:citation/CS1|citation |CitationClass=web }}</ref><ref>Template:Cite news</ref> Spain stated in early 2023 the NH90 was "working perfectly".<ref>{{#invoke:citation/CS1|citation |CitationClass=web }}</ref>

The Spanish defence is evaluating the possibility to integrate weapons and systems to the potential NH90 HSPN for the Spanish Navy.<ref name=":15" /> In December 2024, Spain took deliver of its first Standard 3 NH90, which featured a gross take off weight of 11 tonnes, enhanced communication and safety features among other enhancements.<ref name=":25" />

Sweden

File:Paris Air Show 2007-06-24 n30.jpg

The High-Cabin version of the NH90 at the 2007 Paris Air Show

In 2001, Sweden signed a contract for 18 NH90 TTH, made up of 13 TTTTemplate:Efn-lr/SAR and 5 SAR/ASW to be operated by the Swedish Air Force.<ref>{{#invoke:citation/CS1|citation |CitationClass=web }}</ref><ref>{{#invoke:citation/CS1|citation |CitationClass=web }}</ref> The decision to order the NH90 was made as part of the Nordic Standard Helicopter program along with Norway and Finland; the Swedish version is the High Cabin Variant (HCV).<ref name=":17" /> Because of renewed foreign submarine activity at the Swedish coast in 2014, it was decided in 2015 that four TTT/SAR would be modified to SAR/ASW in order to increase the anti-submarine warfare capability, so there will be 9 TTT/SAR and 9 SAR/ASW.<ref>{{#invoke:citation/CS1|citation |CitationClass=web }}</ref> The NH90 is known as the Helikopter 14 (HKP14) in Swedish service, the FOC version of TTT/SAR are designated Hkp14E and the FOC version of SAR/ASW are designated Hkp14F.<ref name="auto">{{#invoke:citation/CS1|citation |CitationClass=web }}</ref>

File:Garnisonens dag i boden 2017 04.jpg

Swedish NH90 exercises in 2017

Swedish Hkp14 are used for antisubmarine operations, troop transport, search and rescue, and medical evacuations.<ref>Template:Cite journal</ref>

Sweden did not expect its NH90s to be operational until 2020 and ordered 15 UH-60M Black Hawks in 2011,<ref>{{#invoke:citation/CS1|citation |CitationClass=web }}</ref> deploying four of its new Black Hawks to Afghanistan in March 2013.<ref>"Sikorsky Meets Accelerated UH-60M Black Hawk Helicopter Deliveries for Sweden". Template:Webarchive Sikorsky, 17 November 2011.</ref> In December 2015, the first Swedish NH90 in a full ASW configuration was delivered.<ref>Pocock, Chris. "Swedes Accept First NH90 for ASW after Long Delay." Template:Webarchive AIN Online, 29 December 2015.</ref><ref>Osborne, Tony. "Sweden Takes Delivery of Long-Delayed Anti-Sub NH90." Template:Webarchive Aviation Week, 17 December 2015.</ref> On 1 November 2022, the Swedish Supreme Commander, General Michael Byden, announced that Sweden's NH90s will be replaced with S-70 (H-60) variants and a yet to be determined type.<ref>{{#invoke:citation/CS1|citation |CitationClass=web }}</ref> In December 2023, Sweden finished upgrades on the SAR version of its NH90 fleet.<ref>{{#invoke:citation/CS1|citation |CitationClass=web }}</ref>

Order campaigns

The NH90 has been considered by a number of helicopter procurements, however some did not lead to helicopter delivery.

Portugal

Portugal was the fifth nation to join the programme with an order for ten transport NH90 in June 2001; it was intended for these to equip the Portuguese Army Light Aviation Unit. However, in July 2012, fiscal consequences of the Great Recession led Portugal to cancel the order, despite having already spent €87m on the project, in order to save another €420m in acquisition and running costs to 2020.<ref>Template:Cite news</ref><ref>Perry, Dominic. "Portugal looks to cancel NH90 helicopter order." Template:Webarchive Flight International, 27 July 2012.</ref>

Saudi Arabia

In July 2006, the Saudi Government agreed to purchase 64 NH90s.<ref>{{#invoke:citation/CS1|citation |CitationClass=web }}</ref> Then in October 2007 the government changed its plans, and agreed to buy 150 Russian-made Mi-35 and Mi-17 helicopters instead.<ref>{{#invoke:citation/CS1|citation |CitationClass=web }}</ref>

Egypt

In July 2015, the Egyptian Navy entered negotiations for the purchase of 5 NH90 NFHs; these were intended to serve on board its newly acquired FREMM frigate Tahya Misr and 4 Gowind corvettes that were also on order. These NH90s would all be of French standard.<ref>Template:Cite news</ref><ref>Template:Cite news</ref> In October 2015, it was reported that negotiations for a "large quantity" of NH90s had reached an advanced stage.<ref>Dubois, Thierry. "Egypt, France In Discussions Over NH90 Helicopter Buy." Template:Webarchive AIN Online, 5 October 2015.</ref> In April 2019, it was announced that Egypt was ordering the AW149 and not the NH90.<ref>{{#invoke:citation/CS1|citation |CitationClass=web }}</ref>

South Korea

South Korea approved a nearly 2.87 trillion won (US$2.23 billion) to procure naval helicopters to replace its aging Lynx helicopters, and the NH90 is planned to be one of the candidates.<ref>{{#invoke:citation/CS1|citation |CitationClass=web }}</ref>

Variants

User	TTH	NFH
Australia	Template:Maybe
Belgium	Template:Yes	Template:Yes
Finland	Template:Yes
France	Template:Yes	Template:Yes
Germany	Template:Yes	Template:Yes
Greece	Template:Yes
Italy	Template:Yes	Template:Yes
Netherlands		Template:Yes
New Zealand	Template:Yes
Norway		Template:No
Oman	Template:Yes
Qatar	Template:Yes	Template:Yes
Spain	Template:Yes	Template:Yes
Sweden	Template:Yes

There are two main variants, the TTH and the NFH. The NFH is oriented towards naval use and the TTH, land-based operations. A number of customizations such as for medical evacuation, search and rescue, special operations, and also a version with a higher cabin height were made.

Overall, the aircraft is multirole, but only certain aircraft take on certain missions. For example, Sweden has a TTH version called the TTT, but has two versions: one for SAR and one for ASW.

NFH: NATO Frigate Helicopter

File:NH90 (52301055164).jpg

An NH90 NATO Frigate Helicopter (NFH)

The primary role of the NFH version is autonomous ASW and anti-surface unit warfare (ASuW), mainly from naval ships. These aircraft are equipped for day and night, adverse weather and severe ship motion operations. Additional roles include anti-air warfare support, vertical replenishment (VERTREP), SAR and troop transport. France are splitting their purchase between the "NFH version combat" costing €43.3m in FY2013 and the "NFH version soutien" (support) at €36.4m in FY2013.<ref name=Francebudget2013>{{#invoke:citation/CS1|citation |CitationClass=web }}</ref>

One of the major differences of the NFH is that it has a folding tail and rotors, and a stronger undercarriage suitable for marine landings.<ref>{{#invoke:citation/CS1|citation |CitationClass=web }}</ref>

SH-90A

Italian Navy designation from 2012 for NH90 NFH.<ref name="DAAA">{{#invoke:citation/CS1|citation

|CitationClass=web }}</ref>

NH90 NFH Caïman

French Navy designation for NH90 NFH.<ref name=FI_WAF_2013/><ref name=meret/>

NH90 Sea Lion

German Navy development of the French NH90 NFH. The Sea Lion features a reduced set of sensors as the main task is SAR and ship based Transport (VERTREP and Special Forces) and is usually unarmed (doorguns can be installed). First flight was on 8 December 2016 and service deliveries started in October 2019.<ref name="DM_NH90_first_flight"/><ref name="DW20161208"/>

NH90 Sea Tiger

Another German Navy development of the NFH90 for anti-submarine warfare (ASW) and anti-surface unit warfare. The first helicopters were ordered in 2019 with a potential total of up to 31.<ref>{{#invoke:citation/CS1|citation

|CitationClass=web }}</ref>

NH90 HSPN

Potential Spanish variant of the NH90 to be used by the Navy, with Spanish integrated equipment, new weapons such as the NSM-AL, and also communication equipment.<ref>{{#invoke:citation/CS1|citation

|CitationClass=web }}</ref><ref name=":15">{{#invoke:citation/CS1|citation |CitationClass=web }}</ref>

TTH: Tactical Transport Helicopter

The primary role of the TTH version is the transport of 20 troops or more than 2,500 kg of cargo, heliborne operations and search & rescue. It can quickly be adapted to MEDEVAC/CASEVAC missions by fitting up to 12 stretchers or cargo delivery capability. Additional roles include special operations, electronic warfare, airborne command post, parachuting, VIP transport and flight training.

Helikopter 14 (Hkp 14)<ref name="hkp 14">{{#invoke

citation/CS1|citation

|CitationClass=web }}</ref>

Swedish Armed Forces' designation of its eighteen NH90 TTH<ref name="auto"/> of the High Cabin Version (HCV), in which the cabin height is increased by Template:Convert to Template:Convert to allow it to be used as air ambulances as the original height of Template:Convert did not comply with peacetime work safety regulations.<ref name=NH20070620>{{#invoke:citation/CS1|citation

|CitationClass=web }}</ref> The fleet consists of nine ground operative helicopters, Hkp 14E, and nine helicopters for maritime use equipped with sonar and search radar for submarine hunting with the designation Hkp 14F.<ref name="hkp 14"/> The Hkp 14 is equipped with a Saab-developed Tactical Mission System.<ref name=NH20070620 /><ref>{{#invoke:citation/CS1|citation |CitationClass=web }}</ref> Finnish and Swedish TTHs are called Tactical Troop Transports (TTT) in some contexts.

HT-29 Caimán

Spanish Army designation for NH90 GSPA TTH.<ref name="SA_First_NH90">Template:Cite press release</ref>

MRH-90 Taipan

Australian Defence Force designation for NH90 TTH.<ref name="AAPnavynewhelo" />

NH90 TTH Caïman

French Army designation for NH90 TTH.<ref name=FI_WAF_2013/><ref name=meret/>

NH90 TTH Caïman Standard 2

French Army designation for NH90 TTH variant for special operations forces.<ref>{{#invoke:citation/CS1|citation

|CitationClass=web }}</ref>

UH-90A

Italian Army designation for the NH90 TTH.<ref name="DAAA" />

MH-90A

Italian Navy variant of the NH90 TTH.<ref>{{#invoke:citation/CS1|citation

|CitationClass=web }}</ref>

MTT: Maritime Tactical Transport

The MTT is a blend between the TTH and NFH, combining the land-based configuration of the TTH with specialized maritime features of the NFH, including folding rotorblades and tail-boom, and a strengthened undercarriage. The variant was first announced in February 2019 and has reportedly piqued interest from the Spanish and Italian armed forces who may order this variant as part of existing orders.<ref>{{#invoke:citation/CS1|citation |CitationClass=web }}</ref>

This version was adopted by Italy, but was called the MITT TTH. MITT stands for Maritime Italian Navy Tactical Transport (MITT), and ten were delivered to the Italian Navy with designation MH-90. <ref>{{#invoke:citation/CS1|citation |CitationClass=web }}</ref>

Operators

{{#invoke:Labelled list hatnote|labelledList|Main article|Main articles|Main page|Main pages}}

Current operators

File:NH Industries NH90-NFH ‘RN-02’ (cropped).jpg

NH90 NFH of the Belgian Air Component

File:NH-90 - RIAT 2013 (framed).jpg

A Finnish Army NH90 performing over RIAT 2013

File:NHIndustries NH-90 NFH MM81581 (cropped).jpg

Italian Navy NH90 NFH in flight, 2012

File:NH90 (30824898010).jpg

Cockpit view while in flight

{{#invoke

flag||Belgium}}

• Belgian Air Component<ref name="World Air Forces 2024">Template:Cite news</ref>

{{#invoke

flag||Finland}}

• Finnish Army<ref name="World Air Forces 2024"/>

{{#invoke

flag||France}}

• French Army<ref name="World Air Forces 2024"/>
• French Navy<ref name="World Air Forces 2024"/>

Template:GER

• German Army<ref name="World Air Forces 2024"/>
• German Navy<ref name="World Air Forces 2024"/>

Template:GRE

• Hellenic Army<ref name="World Air Forces 2024"/>

{{#invoke

flag||Italy}}

• Italian Army<ref name="World Air Forces 2024"/>
• Italian Navy<ref name="World Air Forces 2024"/>

{{#invoke

flag||Netherlands}}

• Royal Netherlands Navy<ref name="World Air Forces 2024"/>

Template:NZL

• Royal New Zealand Air Force<ref name="World Air Forces 2024"/>

Template:OMA

• Royal Air Force of Oman<ref name="World Air Forces 2024"/>

Template:QAT

• Qatar Emiri Air Force<ref name="World Air Forces 2024"/>

{{#invoke

flag||Spain}}

• Spanish Army<ref name="World Air Forces 2024"/>
• Spanish Air and Space Force<ref name="World Air Forces 2024"/>
• Spanish Navy<ref>{{#invoke:citation/CS1|citation

|CitationClass=web }}</ref>

{{#invoke

flag||Sweden}}

• Swedish Air Force<ref name="World Air Forces 2024"/>

Former operators

Template:AUS

• Australian Army, retired from service in 2023<ref name="Australia retirement 2023"/>
• Royal Australian Navy, withdrawn in 2022<ref name="Guardian2022"/>

{{#invoke

flag||Norway}}

• Royal Norwegian Air Force, retired in 2022<ref>{{#invoke:citation/CS1|citation

|CitationClass=web }}</ref><ref>{{#invoke:citation/CS1|citation |CitationClass=web }}</ref>

Accidents

File:Nh90-in-zee.nbewerkt.jpg

The capsized but floating NH90 that crashed near Aruba in 2020

From 2008 there have been reports at least 11 accidents involving NH90 of various types.<ref name=":13">{{#invoke:citation/CS1|citation |CitationClass=web }}</ref>

Examples

• In April 2010, an Australian MRH-90 suffered a single engine failure near Adelaide, landing safely at RAAF Base Edinburgh<ref name=":9" /> Australia grounded their MRH-90 fleet due to engine issues.<ref name=":10" /> The cause of the failure was determined to be contact between the compressor blade and the engine casing; new preventative inspections were enacted and flights resumed in July 2010.<ref name=":11" /> One factor stated for the engine failure was complications relating to an inflight engine restart.<ref name=":12" />
• In March 2023, an Australian MRH-90 with ten aboard experienced an engine failure and ditched in Jervis Bay with everyone surviving. The helicopter's flotation system was deployed, allowing it to float, and it was towed onto a nearby beach.<ref name=":12" />
• In July 2023, an Australian MRH-90 crashed at night during Exercise Talisman Sabre off the coast of Hamilton Island, Queensland, with the loss of its four crew.<ref name=":5" /><ref name=":7" /> Parts of the airframe and human remains were found in a debris fieldTemplate:Vague in 40 metres of water, consistent with a catastrophic impact. The cause was under investigation as of late 2023.<ref name=":2" />

Specifications (NH90)

File:NH90 orthographical image.svg

External links

• NHIndustries
• NH90, Leonardo company
• NH90, Airbus
• NH90, Royal New Zealand Air Force
• "NH90: Europe's Medium Helicopter Contender". Defense industry daily
• "Eurocopter rejects criticism of NH90 helicopter by 'secret report'". Defpro
• MH90-NG, German NH90 NFH variant