The latest edition of the NH90 User Conference took place from 18-21 May 2026 and provided a unique opportunity for end-users and industry representatives to share knowledge and collaborate on the challenges and opportunities that are shaping the future of rotary-wing operations.
The conference has become a cornerstone event for the programme, fostering a strong community of users committed to operational excellence and continuous improvement. The 2026 event once again demonstrated that close cooperation between operators and industry remains essential to supporting mission readiness, enhancing fleet availability, and ensuring the long-term success of the NH90 programme.
The opening session focused on key operational priorities and lessons learned from the field. Delegates exchanged valuable real-world operational feedback and explored advances in product support and maintenance. They also discussed how digitalisation is transforming fleet management, training, and sustainment activities.
Focus on Product Support and Training – Modern , Efficient and Ready for more solutions
Giuseppe Cellai and Raphael Dumas, Head and Deputy Head of Product Support and Training for the NH90, highlight the latest advancements in logistics, maintenance, and training services aimed at meeting the evolving demands of operators. Their discussion puts a strong focus on operational targets, innovative logistics models, advanced diagnostic technologies, and new solutions—key enablers in building a more integrated, efficient, and forward‑looking in‑service support ecosystem that drives higher operational effectiveness. Watch the full interview here:
The evolving role of the NH90
A significant part of the debate was dedicated to emerging operational concepts and the evolving role of the NH90. Delegates discussed the increasing significance of Crewed-Uncrewed Teaming (CUC-T) capabilities and counter-UAS missions, while highlighting how the platform continues to adapt to evolving mission requirements and increasingly complex operational requirements.
The agenda included technical workshops, panel discussions, and networking sessions designed to strengthen the partnership between the end-user community and industry. These exchanges reinforced the importance of a collaborative approach to addressing current challenges while identifying opportunities to enhance capability and optimise the NH90’s lifecycle.
Leadership perspectives
During the conference, Axel Aloccio, President of NHI, and Cristian Naso, NHI Managing Director, shared their perspectives on the programme’s achievements, current priorities, and future development roadmap.
The discussion emphasised the importance of innovation, enhanced support solutions, digital transformation, and the continued evolution of the NH90 to meet the operational requirements of armed forces worldwide. They also reaffirmed NHI’s commitment to work closely with operators to ensure the platform remains at the forefront of military helicopter capabilities for decades to come.
Italian Navy hosts unique closing event
The conference concluded with a special visit hosted by the Italian Navy at the Maristaeli Luni Naval Air Station in Sarzana. The visit gave participants a unique opportunity to experience first-hand one of the most advanced NH90 operational and training environments in Europe.
NHIndustries extends its sincere appreciation to the Italian Navy and the personnel of Maristaeli Luni for their warm hospitality and for sharing their experience and expertise with the international NH90 community. Their contribution provided a fitting conclusion to a highly successful conference dedicated to cooperation, innovation, and the future of the NH90 programme.
