Safran Helicopter Engines has signed a 10-year contract with the NATO Helicopter Management Agency (NAHEMA) to support RTM322-powered NH90s operated by the French Army’s Light Aviation branch (ALAT) and the French Navy.

The contract also covers NH90s operated by the Belgian Army and Navy and the Royal Netherlands Armed Forces. The contract, which will cover 130 rotorcraft in the coming years, is valued at €180m. It is the first time that Safran has signed a Global Support Package (GSP) contract to support the NH90 fleet.

The agreement satisfies NAHEMA and national requirement for optimum availability of engines during search and rescue and military operations, both at home or while on deployment.

The GSP guarantees turboshaft availability at a fixed price per engine flying hour, and enables military operators to focus on their core activities. Safran notes that the close technical partnership with the OEM provides the customer with full budget control during the contract period.