Airbus Helicopters and Leonardo have announced a joint initiative to conduct an architecture study for the long-term evolution of the NH90 helicopter, referred to as Block 2. The study responds to a request from NAHEMA (NATO Helicopter Management Agency) and aims to define the technical foundation for future enhancements of the aircraft.
Block 2 upgrades are expected to include modular avionics, greater configuration commonality across variants, improved maintainability and performance, as well as enhanced capabilities in collaborative combat, network connectivity, and manned-unmanned teaming. The study is anticipated to be contracted before the end of 2025, allowing participating nations to align it with broader ongoing research into next-generation rotorcraft systems.
Bruno Even, CEO of Airbus Helicopters, stated: “Together with Leonardo we believe that the NH90 will have a central role to play in the future of European defence capabilities.”
Gian Piero Cutillo, Managing Director of Leonardo Helicopters, added: “We’re committed to delivering a study that meets NAHEMA’s expectations while addressing the evolving rotorcraft capability needs of our partner nations.”
This latest initiative builds on the existing Block 1 upgrade — also known as Software Release 3 — which was signed in May 2024 between NAHEMA and NHIndustries to enhance in-service fleets. The Block 2 study will also leverage insights from the ongoing European Next Generation Rotorcraft Technologies programme and a bilateral MoU signed between Airbus and Leonardo in July 2024.
