Update: Belgium to replace NH90 NFH in search-and-rescue role with new helicopter type
NH90 NFH BAF. (Benoit Denet)
Belgium is to replace its NHIndustries (NHI) NH90 NATO Frigate Helicopter (NFH) in the search-and-rescue (SAR) role with a new helicopter type.
Belgian Minister of Defence Theo Francken said on 8 December that the planned procurement of four new SAR helicopters is part of a wider EUR232 million (USD270 million) investment in Koksijde Air Base, which is the main operating base for the NH90 NFH.
The Belgian Air Force owns eight NH90 helicopters, comprising four maritime-roled NFH and four land-roled Troop Transport Helicopter (TTH) airframes. The service retired the TTHs earlier in 2025, citing poor availability. At the same time it said it would continue with the NFHs in the SAR and frigate-based anti-submarine warfare (ASW) roles.
Belgian national media has reported that the NH90 NFH will now lose its SAR role, to be replaced by an as-yet-undecided new helicopter type in 2026.
On 24 December, the Belgian Defence Press Service provided Janes with a statement that read, “The Council of Ministers has granted approval to Defence to purchase four new search-and-rescue helicopters. These new aircraft will replace the historic Sea Kings and represent a vital reinforcement for rescue operations, medical evacuations, urgent organ transport, and emergency assistance.
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