In 2003, the German Army Aviation Corps and the French General Delegation for Ordnance issued the basic conditions for a new, heavy transport helicopter. This helicopter is to serve as successor to the German CH-53G/GSs, and the CH-47s of other European countries. In the spring of 2004 it became clear that there would be no funds for development until 2015. In February 2006, the German Federal Office for Military Technology and Procurement began discussing the FTH with Eurocopter. In March 2006, Eurocopter announced that the FTH would be available at the earliest in the year 2018, if they could co-operate with another company and start the development by 2010. At the moment, it seems like the second partner is Sikorsky Aircraft, who already developed the CH-53K for the United States Navy. Germany would like to procure between 60 and 120 helicopters, and another prospective customer is France, which would give the French Army a capability which it currently lacks. However the concept could also be suitable for other European countries. The European Defence Agency will make recommendations on a future heavy transport helicopter in 2011, with a 24-month study process having been launched on 18 May 2009 with the approval of its member states. France and Germany initiated the heavy transport helicopter initiative, and have already agreed common staff requirements. However, the first year of the study will seek an agreement on requirements -and also the missions, quantities of helicopters to procure- with other EDA member states.
Requirements
The EuropeanHeavy Lift Helicopter Program has issued a number of requirements to be met, including:
Seven blade rotor with elastomeric head and high-performance composite blades
Glass cockpit with four-axis autopilot and sensors for all-weather capability
The helicopter will be expected to carry the Dingo or Fennek armed personnel carrier, the French VBL and VAB vehicles, as well as Wolf and Wiesel or Bv 206. Another desire is that the helicopter could use the same training equipment as the Tiger and NH90 helicopters.
