Although several countries, including Norway, Sweden, Belgium, and Australia, have retired their fleets of NH90 helicopters, a new variant of the French Army Aviation (ALAT) NH90 Caiman for the special forces (NHFS) is scheduled to enter service this year. Eighteen NH90 FS helicopters have been ordered for the 4th RHFS to significantly enhance its tactical capabilities. They will replace the H225.
The NH90 FS will be fitted with a new version of the DMG, an M134D multiple-barrel minigun, a new hatch and hook for HEC operations from the cabin, enlarged rear windows for MAG58 machine gun system operation, a Safran EUROFLIRTM 410D airborne electro-optical system, and a Kamora bay which will enable BLOS LOI L4 drone operation.
Increment 2 will integrate the TOPOWL HMSD-DD helmet coupled with a Sarfan Eurofl’Eye video camera. This will give the crew an improved 200-degree 3D field of view for enhanced awareness of the external environment during critical flight phases and adverse weather conditions. The development of a new inertial navigation system is currently underway. This BlackNaute-type system will replace the existing navigation system and improve accuracy regarding position, speed, and time—particularly during hovering or in GNSS denial environments. The NH90 FS will replace ALAT’s Airbus Helicopters H225M Caracal and the H215M Cougar, with deliveries expected to commence this year and conclude by 2029.
by David Oliver
