FRANCE RECEIVES ITS FIRST NH90 TTH

30 January 2012

FRANCE RECEIVES ITS FIRST NH90 TTH

NHI is pleased to announce the delivery of the first NH90 tactical transport helicopter to the French DGA (Delegation Générale de l’Armement). This event took place according to the contractual schedule, in Marignane Eurocopter facility, where the helicopter has been produced.

The NH90 TTH delivered is the first FOC (Final Operational Capability) qualified standard delivered to a NAHEMA member. It is the first aircraft of a batch of 34 helicopters ordered in 2007 to replace the venerable Pumas in the ALAT (French Army Aviation).
When delivered, the NH90 TTH Caiman will join the Gamstat unit in Valence, where it will be used for training and evaluation.
For the French Army, the NH90 represent quantum leap in terms of versatility and technology. They will cover a wide spectrum of missions such as Utility, transport, Combat Search and Rescue, Medical Evacuation, special operations and counter terrorism operations.

The NH90 features a fully integrated weapon system enabling the helicopter to fly in the most demanding operational conditions by day or night. The NH90 TTH is fitted with a complete self protection suite and a NATO interoperable communication system for international operations. It can operate from ground bases or military ships.

The NH90 is the most successful European helicopter programme ever. Firm orders have been placed by 14 countries including France, Germany, Italy, The Netherlands, Portugal, Sweden, Finland, Norway, Greece, Spain and Belgium in Europe, as well as Australia, New Zealand and Oman overseas. The NH90, developed in the TTH utility transport and NFH naval versions, proves the ideal solution to meet requirements from many potential additional customers worldwide for a number of duties. The NH90 programme is managed by NAHEMA (NATO Helicopter Management Agency) representing France, Germany, Italy, The Netherlands and Portugal, and by the NHIndustries industrial consortium comprising AgustaWestland (32%), Eurocopter (62.5%), Fokker (5.5%).