Airbus recently presented the prototype of the NH90 Caïman Standard 2 multirole helicopter intended for the French Army at an international special operations exhibition held in Martignas-sur-Jalle. This new aircraft is a pivotal part of France’s initiatives to enhance the capabilities of military units engaged in extraction, fire support, and other rapid deployment missions that demand low visibility operations.
The NH90 Caïman Standard 2 introduces significant advancements over its predecessor, the Caïman Standard 1, which was delivered to the French Army in February of the previous year. The enhanced features of the Standard 2 are specifically designed for covert operations, incorporating state-of-the-art components such as an infrared camera equipped with a laser pointer and designator, an advanced radio communications system, and upgraded weapon systems.
Airbus is currently under contract to produce a total of 18 NH90 Caïman Standard 2 helicopters for the French Army’s 4th Special Forces Helicopter Regiment, based in Pau. The assembly of these helicopters is taking place at Airbus’s facility in Marignane, with plans for deliveries to commence between 2026 and 2029. Once operational, the new helicopters will replace the regiment’s older H215M Cougar and H225M Caracal helicopters, which are also manufactured by Airbus.
The NH90 Caïman is designed with versatility in mind. It can be equipped with door-mounted machine guns, multi-domain missiles, rocket pods, and support cannons, positioning it as a formidable asset on the battlefield. With a length of 20 meters (66 feet) and a rotor diameter of 16 meters (52 feet), the helicopter boasts an external slung load capacity of up to 4,200 kilograms (9,259 pounds).
Its spacious cabin can transport up to 20 troops or accommodate 10 medical evacuation stretchers, enhancing its operational flexibility in various mission scenarios. The helicopter is powered by twin turboshaft engines, each generating up to 2,400 horsepower, granting the Caïman a range of approximately 1,600 kilometers (994 miles), an operational altitude of 3,500 meters (11,483 feet), and a maximum speed of 300 kilometers (186 miles) per hour.
As the French military continues to modernize its fleet, the NH90 Caïman Standard 2 represents a significant leap forward in technology and capability, crucial for supporting the complex operations faced by special forces in contemporary conflict environments.
