The Netherlands has signed a contract with NHIndustries and NAHEMA to acquire three more NH90 NFH helicopters, featuring the latest SWR3 mission systems.
The Royal Netherlands Air and Space Force will expand its maritime aviation capabilities with three additional NH90 NATO Frigate Helicopters (NFHs) under a newly signed contract between NHIndustries (NHI) and the NATO Helicopter Management Agency (NAHEMA).
The helicopters will be assembled by Leonardo in Italy and delivered with the latest Block 1 configuration, Software Release 3 (SWR3), featuring upgraded mission systems. These include Data Link 22, a next-generation electro-optical system, new integrated sonics, and expanded weapon options, offering enhanced operational capabilities for maritime missions.
Cristian Naso, Managing Director of NHIndustries, highlighted the technological upgrades: “The three additional NFHs will incorporate the latest Block-1 features, providing advanced mission systems and increased operational versatility.”
Col. Dominique Troquete, Deputy Joint Executive Committee representative of the Netherlands, emphasized the country’s long-standing commitment to the NH90 program. “The Netherlands has been part of the NH90 program since its inception in 1999, receiving the first NH90 in 2010 and becoming the first nation to use it operationally in 2013 for counter-piracy missions. These helicopters have proven to be indispensable assets for the Ministry of Defence.”
Axel Aloccio, President of NHIndustries, noted the continued trust in the NH90 program: “From the original investment to the recently renewed commitment, the Royal Netherlands Air and Space Force has consistently supported the NH90 platform, securing its role as a key component of naval aviation.”
Michael Kohlhaas, General Manager of NAHEMA, stated: “This order reflects the Netherlands’ confidence in a proven and versatile platform, strengthening national defence capabilities while reinforcing NATO interoperability and industrial cooperation.”
The upgraded NFHs are designed for extended maritime operations, including surveillance, target identification, designation, and engagement. The SWR3 configuration enables enhanced threat detection, improved countermeasure capabilities, and secure real-time tactical communication with allied forces.
The NH90 NFH, already in service with several NATO members, supports missions ranging from anti-submarine warfare to search and rescue. The new helicopters will join the Royal Netherlands Air and Space Force fleet with full mission capabilities, maintaining alignment with NATO maritime aviation standards.
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