MARIGNANE, France, Sept. 23 (UPI) — Airbus Helicopters has delivered the 15th of 27 NH90 Caiman multi-mission helicopters to the French Navy.
The aircraft delivered at the company facility in Marignane, France, was the first to be delivered in the final radar configuration, which features advanced sonar for submarine detection and classification and a new system for the Digital Map Generator that aids in mission preparation and execution.
“The NH90’s four-axis autopilot and the fly-by-wire controls contribute to safety and maximum flight performance in severe operating conditions,” Airbus Helicopters said. “The NH90 is the first serial helicopter in the world to be equipped with fly-by-wire technologies, significantly reducing pilot workload and allowing for this state-of-the-art helicopter to be piloted with ease. “
The naval variant of the NH90 Caiman is designed for anti-submarine, anti-surface warfare, search and rescue, maritime surveillance and control and special operations missions. It is a twin-engine aircraft with a speed of 186 miles per hour and a range of 690 miles.
The NH90 helicopter program is managed by NHIndustries consortium, in which Airbus Helicopters is the majority owner.
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