06 February 2019

NHI showcases ‘hybrid' MTT variant of NH90 helo for maritime ops

by Gareth Jennings

NHIndustries (NHI) has showcased a ‘hybrid’ variant of its NH90 helicopter that incorporates elements of both the land- and sea-based models for those customers looking to conduct troop and transport missions in a maritime environment.

An Italian TTH-variant NH90. The MTT is designed to perform the same role but from a maritime environment, with NFH components such as folding rotors and tail-boom, as well as strengthened undercarriage. (IHS Markit/Patrick Allen)

The Maritime Tactical Transport (MTT) variant blends the land-based configuration of the Tactical Transport Helicopter (TTH) with some of the specialist features of the maritime NATO Frigate Helicopter (NFH). These features include folding rotors and a tail-boom, as well as a strengthened undercarriage.

Speaking at the IQPC International Military Helicopter conference in London in early February, the President of NHI, Vincent Dubrule, said this particular version of the NH90 was launched some years ago, and that both Italy and Spain will take 10 and seven MTTs respectively as part of their existing orders.

Elements of the MTT-variant highlighted by Dubrule included an easily reconfigurable cabin, a weather radar; maritime navigation and communication equipment, and a forward-looking infrared (FLIR) sensor. Core mission sets include tactical troop transport, medical/casualty evacuation, disaster relief; assistance to disabled ships, counter-piracy/terrorism, and patrol of Exclusive Economic Zones.

At the time of writing, more than 540 NH90s were on order with more than 370 delivered to 17 armed forces in 13 countries (deliveries to Qatar have yet to begin). NHIndustries is owned by Airbus Helicopters (62.5%), Leonardo Helicopters (32%), and GKN Fokker (5.5%).

NHIndustries (NHI) has showcased a ‘hybrid’ variant of its NH90 helicopter that incorporates element...

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