In September 2021, in the frame of the Life Extension Programme, the Ministry of Defence of the Netherlands and Airbus Helicopters signed a contract for the upgrade of 12 Cougar AS532 U2 helicopters, covering:

-    The terms and certification of the upgrade modification, which includes a new glass cockpit for vehicle and mission management, a new Radio Com system meeting the latest NATO standards and additional provisions for tactical operations
-    Training services for pilots and technicians
-    Spare parts supply.

The Netherlands will benefit from a certified upgrade definition supplied by Airbus Helicopters’ OEM engineering department and access to the Airbus Helicopters industrial network, ensuring flexible planning to perform the aircraft modifications.

Under the terms of the contract, the first two prototype aircraft upgrades will be performed in France and the ten next aircraft in Romania. The first RNLAF aircraft landed at Marignane-Provence airport (France) in June 2022 for its upgrade in the new configuration.

This contract reinforces the long-term cooperation between RNLAF and Airbus Helicopters, and serves to maintain the RNLAF Cougar AS532 U2 fleet at the latest standard of operation for the next 10 years.

For more information, please contact a Sales Manager or contact Airbus Helicopters.