The Netherlands has ordered three new NH90 NFH naval helicopters to enhance its maritime operational capability. The order is considered a significant part of the Netherlands’ goal to modernize and expand its current naval air fleet.
The agreement for the procurement of the helicopters was signed between NHIndustries and the relevant management agency. It was stated that the production process will be carried out at facilities in Italy, and the delivered helicopters will be equipped with the latest “Block-1 / Software Release 3 (SWR3)” configuration.
The new configuration includes important upgrades such as advanced electro-optical systems, modern sonar components, increased communication capabilities, Data Link 22 integration, and expanded weapon options. Thanks to these features, the NH90 NFH helicopters will increase their effectiveness in anti-submarine warfare, maritime surface surveillance, search and rescue, and multi-role naval operations.
The Netherlands joined the NH90 program in 1999 and began receiving its first helicopters in 2010. The NFH (Naval Frigate Helicopter) configured models have been actively operating in the country since 2013. This new order indicates that the collaboration under the long-running program has been updated and the fleet is being developed to be future-proof.
