In response to a request from NAHEMA (NATO Helicopter Management Agency), Airbus Helicopters and Leonardo have teamed up to conduct an architecture study that will define the groundwork for the NH90’s long-term upgrade, known as Block 2. This upgrade will encompass major structural improvements such as modular avionics, enhanced configuration commonality, better maintenance and performance, as well as new features in collaborative combat, connectivity, and crewed-uncrewed teaming. The study, anticipated to be contracted before the end of the year, will allow nations to plan the next phases of Block 2 development in coordination with other ongoing next-generation capability initiatives.
In May 2024, NAHEMA and NHIndustries (NHI) signed the Block 1 enhancement plan (Software Release 3), engaging various countries to upgrade tactical information systems, data sharing, sensors, navigation, and weapon integration on existing fleets. The Block 2 study will leverage these improvements.
This cooperation is part of a Memorandum of Understanding signed by the two manufacturers in July 2024, which aims to thoroughly assess the NH90 programme and consider future development options.
