Revamping NH90 Flight Simulators: Rheinmetall’s Cutting-Edge Upgrade
Rheinmetall Advances NH90 Simulator Operations
In late December 2019, a significant contract was established, securing Rheinmetall a noteworthy order valued in the lower double-digit million euros. This comprehensive agreement, awarded to HFTS GmbH, includes the operation, service, and maintenance of NH90 simulators until 2027, backed by a contractually guaranteed availability rate of at least 98%.
The German Bundeswehr continues its collaboration with HFTS GmbH, a trusted operator of NH90 simulators. Established in 2004, HFTS GmbH currently manages full-mission simulators in Bückeburg, Fassberg, and Holzdorf. This consortium comprises equal shares from renowned companies: Airbus Helicopter, CAE, Rheinmetall, and Thales.
This modernization initiative focuses on updating the existing systems to align with the current configuration of the NH90 (MR1), while also ensuring that the four simulators receive qualification in accordance with EASA licensing regulations at Level C.
Rheinmetall brings a wealth of experience and expertise in NH90 simulations. Beyond flight simulators, the Group has delivered several training systems tailored for NH90 ground personnel. Most notably, in mid-2019, an Asterion-based training system for the NH90-NTH naval helicopter was launched at Nordholz Naval Airbase. Prior to this, ground crew training systems had been installed in Fassberg, where German Army personnel are trained on operating and maintenance procedures using exact replicas of the NH90 TTH cockpit.
