The NATO Support and Procurement Agency (NSPA) allocated three contracts to Airbus Helicopters, Lockheed Martin Sikorsky, and Leonardo as part of the Next Generation Rotorcraft Capability (NGRC) program.
This initiative aims to develop advanced rotorcraft technologies to meet future operational and support requirements.
The awarded contracts will involve the contractors conducting independent platform concept studies, with a focus on identifying innovative technologies, digital design processes, and advanced materials and manufacturing techniques to meet the operational needs of NGRC.
The NGRC program involves collaboration from several NATO member countries, including France, Germany, the United Kingdom, the United States, Ireland, and Italy, with each partner contributing expertise in helicopter design, systems integration, and avionics.
The NGRC program aims to replace a significant portion of the medium multi-role rotorcraft currently in service across NATO by the 2035-40 period.
The NSPA, headquartered in Luxembourg, serves as NATO’s lead organization for multinational acquisition, support, and sustainment, employing over 1,500 staff and overseeing more than 500 contractors worldwide.