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Germany’s Navy Welcomes First NH-90 Tiger Helicopter for Maritime Defense

A game-changer for sea operations: Germany’s cutting-edge Tiger helicopter arrives, armed to counter underwater and aerial threats. What does this mean for naval power?

In this image, I can see a helicopter flying and there is a ship on the water. In the background,...
In this image, I can see a helicopter flying and there is a ship on the water. In the background, there is the sky.

New Naval Helicopter Bolsters Anti-Submarine Capabilities from the Air - Germany’s Navy Welcomes First NH-90 Tiger Helicopter for Maritime Defense

The German Navy has received its first NH-90 MRFH Tiger helicopter, marking a major upgrade in maritime defence. The official handover took place on December 16, 2025, in Berlin, with Defence Minister Boris Pistorius and Vice Admiral Jan Christian Kaack present. The new aircraft is set to replace the ageing Sea Lynx fleet.

The Tiger is built for anti-submarine warfare and aerial threat defence. It comes fitted with a dipping sonar and sonar buoy system, allowing it to detect and track submarines underwater. The helicopter can also carry torpedoes and anti-ship missiles, making it versatile in combat scenarios.

The arrival of the Tiger strengthens the German Navy’s ability to monitor and respond to maritime threats. All 30 helicopters will be based in Nordholz, where they will support anti-submarine and surface defence operations. The upgrade reflects a long-term investment in modernising naval aviation.

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