A looming storm of discontent surrounds the NHIndustries NH90 European helicopters, with a third disgruntled customer, this time hailing from Sweden, set to join the unhappy ranks. This marks the second European nation to give up on the NH90, following in the footsteps of Norway, and the first of its kind to signal its dissatisfaction in 2023. The NH90, a joint venture between Airbus Helicopters, Leonardo, and Fokker Aerostructures, seems to be fading into obscurity as Australia and Norway have already turned their backs on it.
Australia was the trailblazer in 2021 when it decided to terminate its association with the Euro-chopper, citing the helicopter as “sick.” Australian authorities claimed that the manufacturer had failed to deliver on its promises, asserting that the helicopter fell short of the ordered performance standards.
Norway was the first European country to follow suit, actively seeking a replacement for the NH90. While unconfirmed, sources suggest that Norway may opt for the Sikorsky MH-60 Sea Hawk as its alternative. Canberra, Australia’s capital, made a similar choice, discarding the NH90 in favor of the Sikorsky UH-60M Black Hawk.
It is the UH-60M Black Hawk that may sway Sweden toward its side in this helicopter competition. Confidence in NHIndustries’ NH90 appears to be waning, possibly due to production and delivery delays. However, NHIndustries still enjoys the trust of other customers, such as Germany and France. These two strong European economies may have been temporarily won over by NHIndustries’ commitment to ensuring a steady supply of spare parts.
Despite a recent mid-summer contract announcement aimed at improving the NH90’s performance, Sweden seems unwilling to grant it a second chance. Perhaps the Swedes have learned from the Norwegian experience, which was marked by 20 years of delays, mistakes, and prolonged resolutions, all attributed to NHIndustries’ shortcomings.
Sweden’s decision is reinforced by the ongoing conflict in its backyard between Ukraine and Russia. Stockholm is determined to secure its safety, especially as it aims to become a full member of NATO. Sweden had previously expected a fully operational NH90 fleet by 2008, but as of 2023, that goal remains unfulfilled.
In contrast, Sweden has been operating the UH-60M Black Hawk for quite some time, and according to local senior officers, including Major General Carl-Johan Edstrom, the American chopper has performed admirably. This sentiment aligns with what Stockholm is now poised to order.
The United States has recognized the vulnerability of its “competitor” and taken action to capitalize on the situation. Sikorsky has been actively marketing its helicopters in European markets for years. The company is now gearing up to expand UH-60M production and influence. Later this year, Sikorsky anticipates reaching the significant milestone of producing its 5,000th UH-60 Black Hawk.
A simple comparison of production figures between the two helicopters makes it evident which one holds the advantage. NHIndustries has manufactured 471 NH90 units to date, while Sikorsky continues to gain ground. The loss of NHIndustries appears to be a guaranteed gain for Sikorsky as it strives to maintain its dominance in the market.
