Belgium Replaces NH90 Helicopters with Airbus H145M and Eyes Heavy-Lift Options

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.

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