A French Marine Nationale NHIndustries NH90 NFH helicopter. Credit: US Navy / Mass Communication Specialist 3rd Class David Flewellyn.

NHIndustries and its partner companies comprising Airbus Helicopters, Leonardo and Fokker have signed a contract to deliver an upgraded version of the NH90 Tactical Troop Helicopter (TTH) to France.

The companies signed the firm contract with the Nato Helicopter Management Agency (NAHEMA).

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As agreed, the final batch of ten NH90s helicopters, previously ordered by the French Ministry of Armed Force, will be delivered in TFRA Standard 2 configuration at the beginning of 2025. The helicopters will be used by the French Special Forces.

The upgraded variant can be used as a tactical troop carrier in challenging weathers.

The TFRA Standard 2 configuration will be equipped with a new-generation Electro-Optical System (EOS) EuroFLIR from Safran with displays and controls for the pilots, commandos, gunners and loadmasters to enable coordinated mission planning.

The helicopter cabin will also feature a new quick removable leaf doors system and fast-rope beam.

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Additionally, the upgraded version of NH90 TTH will have other improvements such as a digital 3D map, folding boarding steps and additional ceiling-mounted rope anchor points to meet the requirements of Special Forces.

A Distributed Aperture System (DAS) comprising fixed infrared cameras displaying 3D visuals in a Helmet Mounted Sight Digital Display is also expected to be added to support the pilots in flying the helicopter in adverse environmental conditions.

NHIndustries president and Airbus Helicopters NH90 programme head Nathalie Tarnaud-Laude said: “This opportunity brings transformative digital technologies to the NH90, which will make it even more capable in precisely the kind of challenging conditions that can be faced today by special forces.

“We look forward to seeing it in service with the French Army and to offering it to other NH90 customers.”

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