Portuguese Army seeks multirole helicopters
A model of the NHI NH90 helicopter in Portuguese markings. Portugal joined the NH90 TTH helicopter programme in June 2001; however, it decided later to cancel its participation. (Victor Barreira)
The Portuguese Army is looking to acquire new multirole helicopters, with the country's Ministry of National Defence (MND) launching a procurement programme for EUR40.9 million (USD44.3 million).
Disclosed in the Portuguese Official Gazette on 17 October, the ‘Support, Protection and Evacuation Helicopters' (Helicópteros de Apoio, Proteção e Evacuação, HAPE) programme budget includes the helicopters, related equipment, support, and training.
Portugal had previously budgeted EUR50 million to acquire multirole helicopters as part of the Military Programming Law 2023–34.
The HAPE project calls for armed helicopters by 2029 to support, protect, and lift ground troops, as well as to assist in disaster relief and humanitarian aid operations.
No details were provided on the number of helicopters to be purchased as part of the project. Sources have indicated to Janes that three aircraft are intended to be ordered, with an option for a fourth.
For more information on Portuguese army aviation, please see Portugal – Army .
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