NATO NGRC program issues RFP for medium‑size VTOL to replace 900 helicopters

The NATO Support and Procurement Agency (NSPA) launched a request for proposals in July–August 2026 for a medium‑size, multi‑mission VTOL aircraft to replace about 900 platforms, mainly NH90 and AW101, with entry into service expected between 2035 and 2040, and raised the cruise speed target to over 250 knots.

Airbus Helicopters will offer a compound design derived from its X3 and Racer demonstrators, while Leonardo proposes a large tiltrotor based on AW609 and Bell V‑280 technologies and Sikorsky proposes a coaxial compound design based on its X2 technology; Boeing withdrew from the competition, and proposals are due in August 2027.