Airbus Helicopters and Leonardo are partnering to undertake an architecture study defining the basis for the NH90 helicopter’s long-term evolution, known as Block 2, as requested by NAHEMA (NATO Helicopter Management Agency). The Block 2 enhancements will feature key structural upgrades, including modular avionics, improved configuration commonality, enhanced maintenance and performance, along with new capabilities in collaborative combat, connectivity, and crewed-uncrewed teaming. The study is expected to be contracted with NAHEMA before year-end and will support nations in deciding the next steps for Block 2, aligning with other ongoing efforts on next-generation technologies.
In May 2024, NAHEMA and NHIndustries (NHI) signed a short-to-medium term programme upgrade called Block 1 (Software Release 3), involving several nations to enhance tactical data, sensor integration, navigation, and weapons capabilities. The Block 2 study will capitalize on these Block 1 gains.
This joint effort stems from a Memorandum of Understanding signed in July 2024 by Airbus and Leonardo, aiming to perform an in-depth evaluation of the NH90 programme’s status and explore future upgrade pathways.
