Article Posted on : - Jan 27, 2010

The NH90 has been developed in two main variants: the Tactical Transport Helicopter (TTH) and the NATO Frigate Helicopter (NFH).

The primary missions of the NH90 NFH helicopter are in the autonomous anti-submarine warfare (ASW) and anti-surface ship warfare (AsuW) role.

In the anti-surface warfare role, the helicopter is capable of detection, tracking, classification, identification and attack of hostile ships, and has over-the-horizon capability. Secondary roles include anti-air warfare (AAW), vertical replenishment (VERTREP), search and rescue (SAR), troop transport and mine laying.

The NATO frigate helicopter can be armed with anti-submarine torpedoes, air-to-surface missiles and air-to-air missiles. The NFH Helicopter is powered by two RTM 322-01/9 engines supplied by Rolls-Royce Turbomeca.

The NH90 is equipped with an integrated communications and identification management system. The secure radio system provides air-to-air and air-to-ground communications. The TSC 2000 IFF (identification friend or foe) supplied by Thales was developed under German and French cooperation. The helicopter is equipped with a Link 11 secure datalink.

The NH90 NFH is currently the most modern helicopter in its class, it is a multirole aircraft able to perform a wide spectrum of missions such as Search and Rescue, support, utility, anti piracy, Antiship and Anti Submarine missions anytime anywhere. It has been designed to operate from a ship or a land base.

The NH90 helicopter programme is the largest ever launched in Europe, with firm orders now reaching 529 units to equip and modernize the Armed Forces of France, Germany, Italy, The Netherlands, Portugal, Finland, Norway, Sweden, Greece, Oman, Australia, New-Zealand, Spain and Belgium.

-Courtesy:
         Nhindustries Website
         Aerospace Technology Website