The Future of Military Aviation: Innovations from Airbus and Leonardo

NH90 Block 2 Evolution

Airbus Helicopters and Leonardo are embarking on an exciting journey to enhance the NH90 helicopter through a new architecture study known as Block 2. This initiative, responding to a request from the NATO Helicopter Management Agency (NAHEMA), aims to define the long-term evolution of the NH90, which has been a cornerstone of European military aviation.

Key Features of Block 2

The Block 2 upgrade promises significant structural improvements, including:

• Modular Avionics: This will allow for easier upgrades and maintenance.
• Greater Configuration Commonality: Enhancing interoperability among different nations’ fleets.
• Improved Maintenance and Performance: Streamlining operations and reducing downtime.
• New Capabilities: Focused on collaborative combat, connectivity, and crewed-uncrewed teaming.

Bruno Even, CEO of Airbus Helicopters, emphasized the NH90’s pivotal role in future European defense capabilities. The Block 2 evolution will leverage technologies from ongoing studies on next-generation rotorcraft, ensuring that the NH90 remains at the forefront of military aviation.

Building on Previous Upgrades

In May 2024, NAHEMA and NHIndustries (NHI) initiated a short-to-medium term enhancement plan, known as Block 1, which includes software upgrades to improve tactical information, data exchange, sensors, navigation, and weapon integration. The Block 2 architecture study will build upon these advancements, ensuring a cohesive evolution of the NH90’s capabilities.

Drone Forge’s Historic Order of Airbus Flexrotor

In a significant move for the aerospace industry, Australian start-up Drone Forge has placed the largest order to date for Airbus’s Flexrotor uncrewed aerial systems (UAS). This agreement includes six Flexrotor systems, comprising 17 aircraft, tailored for diverse operational needs in the Asia-Pacific region.

Versatile Operational Capabilities

The Flexrotor is designed for a variety of missions, including:

• Littoral Surveillance: Monitoring coastal areas and maritime environments.
• High-Altitude Inland Missions: Conducting operations in challenging terrains.
• Infrastructure Monitoring: Assessing and maintaining critical infrastructure.

Equipped with a heavy fuel engine optimized for maritime operations, the Flexrotor ensures safety and interoperability with naval assets. Its integration of Starlink connectivity allows for beyond-line-of-sight operations, enhancing real-time situational awareness.

Advanced Technology Integration

The Flexrotor features PT-6 imaging technology, providing high-resolution intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance capabilities. This makes it an ideal solution for wide-area maritime monitoring, ensuring that operators have the information they need at their fingertips.

Thomas Symes, CEO of Drone Forge, expressed confidence in the Flexrotor’s potential to tap into new markets, highlighting its reliability and mission flexibility.

Crewed-Uncrewed Teaming with Airbus and Singapore

Singapore’s Defence Science and Technology Agency (DSTA) has partnered with Airbus Helicopters to explore crewed-uncrewed teaming capabilities. This collaboration focuses on integrating the H225M Medium Lift helicopter with the Flexrotor UAS, aiming to enhance situational awareness and mission outcomes.

The HTeaming Initiative

Airbus’s innovative HTeaming system will be integrated into the RSAF’s H225M, allowing crews to control the Flexrotor seamlessly. This partnership aims to demonstrate the effectiveness of combining manned platforms with autonomous systems, creating a true force multiplier in complex operational environments.

Mr. Ng Chad-Son, DSTA’s Chief Executive, highlighted the potential of this collaboration to unlock new possibilities in helicopter-drone integration. The operational demonstration will showcase the efficiency of Airbus’s teaming solution, emphasizing the added value of cooperation between crewed helicopters and uncrewed aerial systems.

Modular System Features

Airbus’s HTeaming system includes a modem, four antennas, a tablet, and specialized software, all designed to facilitate effective communication and control between crewed and uncrewed platforms. This modular approach ensures adaptability to various mission requirements, enhancing operational flexibility.

The advancements in military aviation, spearheaded by Airbus and Leonardo, signify a transformative era in defense capabilities. With innovations like the NH90 Block 2 and the Flexrotor, the future of military operations looks promising, emphasizing collaboration, technology integration, and enhanced operational effectiveness.