Naval helicopter NH90 Sea Tiger successfully completives its debut flight in Germany
The German Navy is set to modernize its naval fleet with the arrival of the NH90 Sea Tiger, a state-of-the-art multi-role anti-submarine warfare (ASW) helicopter. The German Bundeswehr ordered 31 units of this helicopter for a total approximate cost of €2.7 billion[1].
The NH90 Sea Tiger is the naval version of the NH90 NFH (NATO Frigate Helicopter), specifically designed for anti-submarine warfare. It is set to replace the ageing Mk88A Sea Lynx fleet, which entered service in 1981[2].
Key specifications and capabilities of the NH90 Sea Tiger include: - Role: Primarily ASW and naval warfare operations. - Speed: Top speed reportedly around 316 miles per hour (about 509 km/h), combining the mobility of a helicopter with the range and speed characteristics closer to those of fixed-wing aircraft[2]. - Multi-role functionality: Besides ASW, it can perform various naval functions such as surveillance, search and rescue, and transport. - Integration: The Sea Tiger is integrated with naval data link systems and sensor suites, enabling advanced detection, tracking, and engagement of submarines[3].
The Sea Tiger is equipped with a new Electro-Optical System, improved Electronic Support Measures (ESM), dipping sonar, sonobuoys, and weapons (torpedoes and missiles)[4]. Over 500 NH90 helicopters are in service worldwide, accumulating over 370,000 flight hours[5].
Airbus Helicopters, the manufacturer of the NH90, is currently in a qualification phase for the NH90 Sea Tiger, focusing on flight testing and new systems[6]. NHIndustries, a rotorcraft joint venture responsible for the design, manufacturing, and support of the NH90 helicopter, brings together the top skills and expertise from the European rotorcraft and defense industry[7].
The first NH90 Sea Tiger helicopter took off for its maiden flight at Airbus Helicopters' site in Donauwörth, Germany[4]. Deliveries of the NH90 Sea Tiger helicopters are scheduled to begin at the end of 2025[8].
The NH90 Sea Tiger is not the only NH90 variant in service with the German Navy. The NH90 Sea Lion, already in service, recently demonstrated its capabilities during a rescue operation in the North Sea[9]. The Bundeswehr already operates 18 NH90 Sea Lion naval transport helicopters, delivered between 2019 and 2023[10].
Stefan Thomé, Managing Director of Airbus Helicopters in Germany, stated that the NH90 Sea Tiger will allow the Navy to streamline operations and maintenance[8]. The NH90 Sea Tiger is one of the leaders in the latest generation of military helicopters[5].
[1] https://www.flightglobal.com/defence/germany-orders-31-nh90-sea-tiger-helicopters-for-navy/146725.article [2] https://www.airbus.com/defence/helicopters/nh90/nh90-sea-tiger.html [3] https://www.airbus.com/defence/helicopters/nh90/nh90-sea-tiger.html [4] https://www.airbus.com/defence/helicopters/nh90/nh90-sea-tiger.html [5] https://www.airbus.com/defence/helicopters/nh90/nh90-sea-tiger.html [6] https://www.airbus.com/defence/helicopters/nh90/nh90-sea-tiger.html [7] https://www.airbus.com/defence/helicopters/nh90/nh90-sea-tiger.html [8] https://www.flightglobal.com/defence/germany-orders-31-nh90-sea-tiger-helicopters-for-navy/146725.article [9] https://www.flightglobal.com/defence/german-navy-nh90-sea-lion-helicopter-performs-rescue-operations-in-north-sea/146993.article [10] https://www.flightglobal.com/defence/german-navy-nh90-sea-lion-helicopter-performs-rescue-operations-in-north-sea/146993.article
The multi-role functionality of the NH90 Sea Tiger extends beyond anti-submarine warfare, offering capabilities in surveillance, search and rescue, and transport missions. This helicopter, integrated with naval data link systems and sensor suites, is poised to significantly impact the German Navy's operations, particularly in finance and technology sectors, considering the €2.7 billion cost of the 31 units and the modern technology onboard. The collaboration between Airbus Helicopters and NHIndustries, entities rooted in the European rotorcraft and defense industry, underscores the aerospace sector's role in the procurement and deployment of this advanced military aircraft.
