Belgium to replace NH90 TTH with H145M, to seek heavy-lift helicopter

Belgium is to replace four NH90 TTHs (pictured) with the H145M and will look to a new heavy-lift helicopter type also. (Benoît Denet)

Belgium is to replace its NHIndustries (NHI) NH90 Tactical Transport Helicopters (TTHs) with the Airbus Helicopters H145M, at the same time as seeking a larger platform to take on the soon-to-be retired type's heavier-lift duties.

Speaking to Janes in late July, the Chief of the Belgian Air Force (Force Aérienne Belge: FAé), General Geert De Decker, said that the four NH90 TTHs that are to be prematurely retired in September will initially be replaced by 15 H145Ms that were ordered in 2024 and which will be delivered from 2026. At the same time, the service will look to acquire as many as eight heavy-lift helicopters.

As Gen De Decker explained, the situation that has caused the retirement of the NH90 TTHs has been their problematic support. “Originally, these four aircraft were intended to support a ground company and for medical evacuation missions, with the required availability of two helicopters. The resulting availability was only 1.36 helicopters. The mechanical issues encountered are identical to those of the [four] NH90 [NATO Frigate Helicopters] NFHs [also in national service], but for these the capacity required by Belgium is only a single helicopter,” he said. The four NH90 TTHs will be preserved and maintained with the intention of being resold.

As well as stepping into the NH90 TTHs' troop transport and battlefield roles, the H145Ms will utilise manned-unmanned teaming (MUM-T) for the exploitation of unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs), Gen De Decker said, noting this synergy will optimise reconnaissance, support, and tactical engagement missions.