The Old Continent is looking to reduce its dependence on American weaponry with a series of projects in the pipeline. One of the most high-profile projects is the Future Combat Air System (FCAS), a sixth-generation fighter aircraft. In addition to this, there is another major development for the European defense sector known as the Next Generation Rotorcraft Capability (NGRC) project. This project aims to deliver a medium lift multi-role helicopter for the needs of Europe and NATO members.
The NGRC project aims to replace the medium-lift multi-role helicopters currently used by the Allies. Many of these helicopters were initially manufactured in the 1950s and 1960s and will reach the end of their natural lives by the 2040s. The new helicopter will be large enough to perform various tasks such as insertion and extraction of special forces, troop transport, medevac, search and rescue, and anti-submarine warfare. It will also be small enough to operate in remote locations like forest glades and mountain ranges.
While not much is known about the new helicopter at this time, the NATO Support and Procurement Agency (NSPA) has selected Airbus to lead the development of the NGRC. Airbus will collaborate with American contractors Collins Aerospace and Raytheon for this project. The goal is to analyze two integrated concepts of the next generation military rotorcraft. The new helicopter will need to be high-performance, modular, and fully interoperable with NATO standards. It will also require a high degree of connectivity and a state-of-the-art communication system.
There is currently no set date for when the new medium-lift helicopter will be operational. However, it is expected to be ready by the end of the next decade to replace the aging helicopters that will become increasingly difficult to maintain relevance. In addition to Airbus, the NSPA has also tasked Sikorsky with exploring the NGRC. It remains to be seen whether the European-led designs will outperform the American ones.
