Defense & Military
Belgium Replaces NH90 Helicopters with Airbus H145M and Eyes Heavy-Lift Options
Belgium retires NH90 TTH helicopters, orders Airbus H145M, and explores heavy-lift helicopters to modernize defense and align with NATO.
Belgium’s Strategic Shift: Replacing the NH90 TTH with the H145M and Seeking Heavy-Lift Capabilities
Belgium’s decision to retire its NHIndustries NH90 Tactical Transport Helicopters (TTH) and replace them with Airbus H145M helicopters marks a significant shift in the country’s defense strategy. The move reflects broader trends in European military procurement, where reliability, cost-efficiency, and interoperability are becoming paramount in a rapidly evolving geopolitical landscape.
The NH90, once a symbol of European defense cooperation, has faced increasing scrutiny due to high operational costs, complex maintenance requirements, and low mission availability. Belgium’s transition to the H145M and its exploration of heavy-lift helicopter options underscore a pragmatic approach to modernizing its armed forces while aligning with NATO standards and operational demands.
This article explores the background of the NH90 program, Belgium’s rationale for transitioning to the H145M, current developments in its helicopter fleet modernization, and the broader implications for European defense policy.
Background: The NH90 Program and Its Operational Challenges
The NH90 was developed as a joint venture between France, Germany, Italy, and the Netherlands under NHIndustries, aiming to provide a versatile, modern multirole helicopter for both land and naval missions. The aircraft entered service in 2007 and was adopted by several nations, including Belgium, which acquired four TTH variants for tactical transport and eight NFH variants for naval operations.
Despite its advanced design, the NH90 has been plagued by operational challenges. Maintenance complexity, high costs per flight hour (estimated between €12,000 and €20,000), and frequent technical issues have hindered its effectiveness. These issues have led to reduced fleet availability and increased logistical burdens for operators.
Several countries have already taken action in response to these problems. Norway canceled its NH90 program in 2022, citing poor performance. Australia retired its MRH-90 fleet in 2024, and Sweden downsized its NH90 fleet in 2023. These moves reflect a growing consensus that the platform has not met expectations, prompting Belgium to reevaluate its own fleet.
Belgium’s Experience with the NH90 TTH
Belgium’s four NH90 TTH helicopters have seen limited operational use due to the same issues experienced by other nations. Defense Minister Theo Francken publicly criticized the platform as a “bad purchase,” highlighting unsustainable maintenance costs and low availability as primary concerns.
The decision to retire the NH90 TTHs by September 2025 is part of a broader effort to streamline and modernize Belgium’s rotary-wing capabilities. The eight NH90 NFH helicopters used for naval missions will remain in service, as they have demonstrated comparatively better performance in their designated roles.
The move away from the NH90 TTH aligns with Belgium’s strategic priorities, including cost reduction, increased readiness, and interoperability with NATO allies. By transitioning to the H145M, Belgium aims to achieve these goals while maintaining operational flexibility.
“The four NH90 TTH helicopters will be taken out of service starting in September. It was a bad purchase. Their maintenance is extremely expensive. The replacements will arrive in 2026.”, Theo Francken, Belgian Defense Minister
Procurement of the Airbus H145M
Belgium has ordered 15 H145M helicopters for its armed forces, along with two additional units for the Federal Police, with an option for three more. The contract was signed via the NATO Support and Procurement Agency (NSPA) and announced at the Eurosatory 2024 defense exhibition.
The H145M is a light utility military helicopter known for its versatility, low operating costs, and ease of maintenance. It is already in service with several European countries, including Germany, Hungary, and Luxembourg, making it a proven platform with established logistics and training support.
Key specifications of the H145M include a maximum speed of 241 km/h, a range of 637 km, and a payload capacity of approximately 1,893 kg. It can carry up to 10 passengers and is configurable for roles such as tactical transport, medical evacuation, special operations, and light attack missions.
Strategic and Operational Benefits
The H145M offers several advantages over the NH90 TTH. Its modular design allows for rapid reconfiguration between mission types, and its smaller size and weight make it more suitable for rapid deployment and urban operations. Lower maintenance requirements translate into higher availability rates and reduced life-cycle costs.
Bruno Even, CEO of Airbus Helicopters, emphasized the growing role of the H145M in European defense: “In Europe, the robust multi-role helicopter [H145M] is becoming the reference for tactical airlift capability, special operations, and medical evacuation missions.”
The integration of the same platform across military and police units will also streamline training, spare parts management, and operational coordination, enhancing overall efficiency.
“In Europe, the robust multi-role helicopter [H145M] is becoming the reference for tactical airlift capability, special operations, and medical evacuation missions.”, Bruno Even, CEO, Airbus Helicopters
Exploring Heavy-Lift Helicopter Options
In addition to replacing its light and medium utility helicopters, Belgium is actively exploring the acquisition of a heavy-lift helicopter platform. This capability is essential for rapidly transporting troops, vehicles, and equipment in support of NATO missions and national defense operations.
While no formal procurement process has been launched, Belgium is reportedly evaluating platforms such as the Boeing CH-47F Chinook and the Sikorsky CH-53K King Stallion. The CH-47F is widely used among NATO allies and was recently selected by Germany for its own modernization efforts. The CH-53K offers higher payload capacity but comes with a higher price tag and more complex logistics.
Belgium’s interest in heavy-lift helicopters reflects a recognition of current capability gaps and the need to enhance strategic mobility. The decision will likely be influenced by factors such as interoperability, cost, and Delivery timelines, as well as lessons learned from partner nations.
Regional Trends and NATO Alignment
Belgium’s approach mirrors broader trends in European defense planning. Germany’s selection of the CH-47F over the CH-53K was driven by considerations of cost, availability, and NATO interoperability. The decision underscores a preference for platforms that are already widely used and supported within the alliance.
By aligning its procurement strategy with that of key NATO partners, Belgium aims to enhance joint operational capabilities and reduce logistical complexity during multinational missions. This approach also supports NATO’s goal of improving rapid deployment and force mobility across Europe.
As geopolitical tensions persist, particularly in Eastern Europe, the ability to project force quickly and effectively is becoming a central requirement for NATO members. Heavy-lift helicopters play a crucial role in fulfilling this need.
Conclusion
Belgium’s decision to replace the NH90 TTH with the Airbus H145M and explore heavy-lift helicopter options represents a strategic recalibration of its defense capabilities. The move addresses long-standing issues with the NH90 program while embracing a more flexible, cost-effective, and interoperable approach to military aviation.
Looking ahead, Belgium’s helicopter modernization strategy is poised to enhance its operational readiness and align more closely with NATO standards. As the country continues to evaluate heavy-lift options, its choices will likely reflect a balance between capability, affordability, and alliance cohesion, key factors in the evolving European security landscape.
FAQ
Why is Belgium retiring the NH90 TTH?
Due to high maintenance costs, low availability, and operational inefficiencies, Belgium has decided to phase out the NH90 TTH by 2025.
What will replace the NH90 TTH in Belgium?
Belgium will replace the NH90 TTH with 15 Airbus H145M helicopters, starting deliveries in 2026.
Is Belgium planning to acquire heavy-lift helicopters?
Yes, Belgium is considering heavy-lift helicopter options such as the CH-47F Chinook and CH-53K King Stallion to enhance strategic mobility, though no final decision has been made.
Sources:
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Vertical Magazine
Photo Credit: Airbus
Defense & Military
Gripen F Completes Inaugural Flight in Linköping Sweden
Saab and the Brazilian Air Force completed the first flight of the Gripen F two-seat fighter on August 28, 2026.
Saab and the Brazilian Air Force have successfully completed the inaugural flight of the Gripen F, the two-seat variant of the Gripen E fighter, initiating the airborne test campaign for the jointly developed aircraft.
The aircraft took off from Saab’s airfield in Linköping, Sweden, on August 28, 2026. In a press release issued today, the manufacturer confirmed the milestone advances a comprehensive technology transfer program designed to deliver both pilot training and full operational combat capabilities.
Inaugural flight and test campaign
The flight commenced at 09:40 local time and lasted 40 minutes. Saab Chief Test Pilot Jakob Högberg and Brazilian Air Force Test Pilot Lieutenant Colonel Aviator Abdon de Rezende Vasconcelos operated the aircraft.
Lars Tossman, Head of Business Area Aeronautics at Saab, highlighted the collaborative effort behind the milestone.
“This first flight represents an important step forward for both Saab and the Brazilian Air Force. Seeing Gripen F take to the skies is particularly significant for all the Swedish and Brazilian teams whose years of engineering work have helped turn this aircraft into a reality. It is designed to accelerate pilot training while and enhancing operational performance in advanced combat missions,” Tossman said.
The Gripen F test program will now transition into a progressive envelope expansion phase. Saab stated that upcoming flights will clear performance limits, including speed, altitude, G-load, and angle of attack, while evaluating the tactical systems of the independent rear cockpit.
Design specifications and Brazilian procurement
The Gripen F incorporates specific design modifications to accommodate a second crew member. According to Air Data News, the two-seat variant measures 15.9 meters in length, compared to the 15.2-meter single-seat Gripen E, and has a maximum takeoff weight of 16,500 kilograms. To make room for the rear cockpit, engineers omitted the internal 27 mm Mauser BK27 cannon found on the single-seat model. Despite this change, the aircraft retains full operational combat capability and utilizes the same General Electric F414G engine.
The development of the Gripen F is heavily tied to Brazilian defense procurement. Aviation Week reports that the Brazilian Air Force ordered eight Gripen F aircraft as part of a broader 36-aircraft contract signed in 2014. Saab officially presented the first Gripen F during a rollout ceremony in Linköping on June 2, 2026. The manufacturer noted that more than 350 Brazilian engineers, technicians, and pilots have participated in training and development activities for the program.
AirPro News analysis
We view the successful first flight of the Gripen F as a critical validation of the technology transfer agreement between Saab and its Brazilian partners, including Embraer. The integration of a fully combat-capable rear cockpit ensures the Brazilian Air Force can conduct advanced training while maintaining frontline fleet readiness. Delivering the two-seat variant on schedule strengthens Saab’s position in future export campaigns where dual-role trainer and combat aircraft are required.
Sources: Saab
Photo Credit: Saab
Defense & Military
Neura Defense Systems Rebrands as Volantyx Aerospace
Neura Defense Systems rebrands as Volantyx Aerospace to develop counter-UAS tech targeting RF-silent drone swarms.
Saint Petersburg, Florida-based Neura Defense Systems, Inc. announced on August 26, 2026, that it has rebranded as Volantyx Aerospace, Inc. to reflect its expansion from a single-product defense developer into a broader aerospace technology platform.
In a press release issued Wednesday, the company stated the original Neura Defense Systems name will be retained for its defense division and current operating business. The corporate restructuring aligns with the company’s focus on developing a distributed edge-intelligence architecture designed to counter autonomous, radio-frequency-silent drone swarms.
Addressing the RF-silent swarm-drone gap
Volantyx Aerospace is targeting a specific vulnerability in current counter-Unmanned Aircraft Systems (UAS) defense networks. Traditional detection and mitigation rely heavily on radio frequency (RF) signals, which are ineffective against pre-programmed or autonomous aircraft that do not emit such signals.
Founder and Chief Executive Officer Sam Talari explained the limitations of legacy systems in the company’s announcement, noting that the new architecture is built on the assumption that any single sensor can be degraded or absent.
An RF sensor cannot detect a signal that is not there, and a jammer cannot sever a control link that does not exist. We start from the aircraft’s physical signature instead — radar return, sound, heat, visual — and combine those into one track and one decision picture for the operator.
The company has filed 13 United States provisional patent applications covering multi-modal sensor fusion, distributed networking, cognitive command, and the detection of non-emitting aircraft. The resulting intelligence layer is designed to make decisions at the edge without cloud dependency while preserving a record of system observations.
Development timeline and market positioning
The rebranding occurs as federal investment in counter-UAS technologies accelerates. Volantyx Aerospace remains in the development stage, with its core capabilities currently undergoing hardware integration and field evaluation following initial tests in a controlled environment.
The company clarified in its release that it does not yet claim a fielded deployment, operational performance metrics, or a contract award. Volantyx Aerospace plans to begin manufacturing or supplying effectors in early 2027. The corporate name change is a structural adjustment for the Delaware corporation and does not alter existing agreements, obligations, or ownership.
AirPro News analysis
The transition from Neura Defense Systems to Volantyx Aerospace signals a strategic pivot to capture dual-use commercial and defense markets. As autonomous UAS capabilities proliferate, the reliance on RF jamming and detection is becoming a recognized vulnerability in airspace security. By focusing on multi-modal physical signatures, we view Volantyx’s approach as a necessary evolution in counter-UAS architecture. The company’s explicit acknowledgment that it lacks fielded deployments or contract awards underscores the significant gap between conceptual architecture and operational validation. The early 2027 target for effector manufacturing will be a critical milestone to monitor as the company attempts to transition from a development-stage startup to an active aerospace supplier.
Photo Credit: Neura Defense Systems, Inc.
Defense & Military
Lockheed Martin Offers Peru $1.8B F-16 Block 70 Offset Package
Lockheed Martin proposes a $1.8B industrial package for Peru’s F-16 Block 70 program, including UAS assembly and MRO expansion.
Lockheed Martin has outlined a $1.8 billion industrial and social collaboration package for Peru, designed to integrate local firms into the global aerospace supply chain as part of the country’s F-16 Block 70 procurement program.
Announced in a press release on August 26, 2026, the offset proposal follows the Peruvian government’s April 2026 decision to acquire an initial batch of 12 F-16 Block 70 aircraft. The comprehensive package aims to position Peru as a regional hub for advanced unmanned systems and aerospace services.
Expanding Peru’s aerospace industrial base
The proposed industrial agreement focuses heavily on technology transfer and domestic manufacturing. Key components include the domestic assembly of an Unmanned Aircraft System (UAS) tailored for the Latin American market, the establishment of joint research hubs, and the creation of a UAS Technical Institute. The package also outlines plans to expand Peru’s high-tech maintenance, repair, and overhaul (MRO) footprint.
“As we collaborate with the local industry, we aim to deliver tangible, high-value opportunities that build a skilled workforce, enable knowledge transfer and create lasting economic impact on both sides of the partnership,” said Tara Lause, Vice President of Business Development for the Integrated Fighter Group at Lockheed Martin.
Lause added that the procurement creates enduring alliances and industrial collaboration opportunities with the United States and other partner nations.
Fleet modernization and electronic warfare capabilities
Peru is currently working to replace its aging fleet of Soviet-era MiG-29s and French Mirage 2000s. The F-16 Block 70 was selected over competing bids from Saab and Dassault. To equip the new fleet, the government of Peru selected L3Harris Technologies to provide its AN/ALQ-254(V)1 Viper Shield all-digital electronic warfare suite, a decision announced on August 17, 2026. The Viper Shield system provides advanced radar warning and jamming capabilities.
Lockheed Martin noted that the F-16 is currently operated by 29 countries, with a global fleet of 2,800 aircraft. Mike Shoemaker, Vice President of the Integrated Fighter Group at Lockheed Martin, stated that the selection highlights the aircraft’s operational performance and ability to meet pressing defense requirements.
AirPro News analysis
The announcement of a $1.8 billion industrial offset package is a strategic move by Lockheed Martin to solidify the F-16 Block 70 sale amid a complex political environment in Lima. While the Peruvian government selected the aircraft in April 2026, regional defense reporting indicates that the procurement process has encountered delays linked to ministerial resignations and defense budget debates. By offering substantial domestic manufacturing opportunities, including UAS assembly and MRO expansion, Lockheed Martin is providing Peruvian leadership with a strong economic justification to finalize the state-to-state contract. We view this comprehensive technology transfer as a critical lever in moving the procurement from selection to a finalized, funded agreement.
Sources: Lockheed Martin
Photo Credit: Lockheed Martin
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