The LoI for Next Generation Rotorcraft Capability initiative was signed virtually. Credit: Nato.

Five European nations have signed a letter of intent (LoI) to develop a medium multi-role helicopter as part of their efforts to modernise existing rotorcraft fleets.

The project, which is one of Nato’s High Visibility Projects (HVP), was signed by representatives of France, Germany, Greece, Italy and the UK.

Discover B2B Marketing That Performs

Combine business intelligence and editorial excellence to reach engaged professionals across 36 leading media platforms.

Find out more

Most of the allied medium multi-role helicopter capabilities are slated to reach the end of their service life in the 2035-2040 period,

The project aims to deliver a next-generation rotorcraft as a potential replacement of existing capabilities by leveraging the latest technology, production methods and operational concepts.

Nato deputy secretary-general Mircea Geoană said: “By investing our resources and channelling our development initiatives through a multinational framework, we are making sure allies are equipped with the best available capabilities, which helps to maintain Nato’s technological edge.”

Subsequently, experts from all nations will work to devise statement of requirements and a multi-phase cooperation plan.

GlobalData Strategic Intelligence

US Tariffs are shifting - will you react or anticipate?

Don’t let policy changes catch you off guard. Stay proactive with real-time data and expert analysis.

By GlobalData

Defence ministers of the five countries are expected to sign a memorandum of understanding (MoU) for the development of the helicopter around 2022, while the first aircraft is planned for delivery in the 2035-2040 period.

The medium multi-role helicopter will be used for different tactical operations such as insertion and extraction of special forces, transport of small and medium-sized cargo and troops, search and rescue missions and anti-submarine warfare.

The rotorcraft will also be able to perform medical evacuation and take-off or land in topographically restricted areas to improve operational flexibility.

The use of a common helicopter is also expected to boost interoperability among participating allies.

Airforce Technology Excellence Awards - Nominations Closed

Nominations are now closed for the Airforce Technology Excellence Awards. A big thanks to all the organisations that entered – your response has been outstanding, showcasing exceptional innovation, leadership, and impact.


Excellence in Action
Discover how Virtualitics is transforming mission readiness with explainable AI, predictive maintenance, and data-driven decision intelligence across the U.S. Department of Defense through its AI-powered Integrated Readiness Optimization suite, for which it has won the Innovation and Business Expansion awards.

Discover the Impact