Navy Takes Delivery of Second NH90 Caiman

On Sept. 7, the Navy took delivery of its second NH90 Caiman Marine helicopter. This helicopter, in combat configuration with sonar and tactical operator stations, landed on the naval air base at Hyères where the Naval Air Trials and Reception Unit is stationed.

The Caiman should enter operational service with the Navy in the fall of 2011, and will be stationed at Lanvéoc naval air base in Brittany. A total of 27 Caiman will be delivered to the naval air arm (Aéronautique navale) by 2021 to replace first the Super Frelon, and subsequently the Lynx, helicopters it operates for anti-submarine and anti-ship warfare, tactical transport and rescue at sea.

With its unique capabilities and performance, the Caiman will bring about a profound evolution of the naval air arm’s helicopter component. Designed as a stand-along weapon system, the Caiman is a first-rate asset for carrying out the full range of missions now flown by shipboard helicopters, but with substantially improved performance.