Europe's NH Industries has secured its first Middle Eastern customer for the NH90, with Oman last week signing a contract for 20 aircraft to be delivered in the tactical transport helicopter configuration.
To be in service with the Omani air force by 2008, the aircraft will perform utility and search-and-rescue duties, replacing Oman's current Agusta Bell AB205/212 and Bell 214 helicopters.
The NH90s will be powered either by uprated General Electric T700 or Rolls-Royce/Turbomeca RTM322 engines, says NHI.
The aircraft will augment the Omani air force's 16 AgustaWestland Super Lynx 300 anti-surface warfare and utility helicopters, the first three of which recently began operations (Flight International, 6-12 July). Oman's fourth Super Lynx was formally accepted during last month's Farnborough air show, where the helicopter was exhibited armed with rocket and gun pods.
Source: Flight International
