Naval Frigate and Overland Variants to See Delivery Through 2022 

The Qatar Emiri Air Force has seen a lot of new equipment in recent memory, receiving Dassault Rafale, F-15Q Eagles, and their most recent addition, the NH90 helicopter. The transport is the result of a collaborative effort by Airbus, Leonardo (formerly AgustaWestland) and Fokker Aerostructures as the primary shareholders of NHIndustries, the largest rotorcraft joint venture in European history. 

The Qatar Emiri Air Force unveiled their 2 NH90 variants, the Tactical Transport Helicopter (TTH) and Nato Frigate Helicopter (NFH) at Qatar's National Day. The first delivery of the 'overland' TTH variant was recently made in early December 2021, and will soon be followed by its naval equivalent, the NFH. Deliveries are slated to continue through 2025 for the new aircraft under the current order agreement, to ultimately acquire 16 NH90 TTH helicopters and  12 NFH variants. The country also secured the option to acquire 6 more of each type, should they find it desirable. 

Leonardo is the prime contractor for the program, responsible for final assembly and delivery of the next 12 NFH helicopters, as well as the provision of support, simulators, training services for its crews and maintenance personnel. The proximity of its Italian locations and training facilities has made it a popular partner for the educational components of new aircraft operators throughout the MENA region. 

Ben Bridge, vice president of global business at NHIndustries co-owner Airbus Helicopters, said the helicopter is a solid addition to the Emiri Air Force. “The NH90 is a modern and combat-proven asset that will meet Qatar’s demanding operational requirements for decades to come, both in troop transport and naval missions."

FMI: www.nhindustries.com