Airbus has unveiled the prototype of the French Army’s NH90 Caïman Standard 2 multirole helicopter at an international special operations exhibit in Martignas-sur-Jalle.
The aircraft is part of Paris’ efforts to integrate next-generation capabilities into units assigned to extraction, fire support, and other rapid deployment tasks requiring low visibility.
Compared to the Caïman Standard 1, which was delivered to the army last February, the Standard 2 features components tailored for covert operations, including an infrared camera with a laser pointer and designator, an advanced radio communications kit, and new weapon systems.
Fleet for French Commandos
Airbus is under contract to produce 18 Caïman Standard 2 helicopters for the French Army’s 4th Special Forces Helicopter Regiment in Pau.
Assembly is currently underway at the company’s facility in Marignane, with deliveries scheduled between 2026 and 2029.
Once delivered, the helicopters will replace the regiment’s aging H215M Cougar and H225M Caracal fleets, also manufactured by Airbus.
The Caïman Airframe
The NH90 Caïman can be armed with door-mounted machine guns, multi-domain missiles, rocket pods, and support cannons.
It measures 20 meters (66 feet) in length, has a rotor diameter of 16 meters (52 feet), and an external slung load capacity of 4,200 kilograms (9,259 pounds).
The helicopter’s cabin can accommodate up to 20 troops or carry 10 medical evacuation stretchers.
Powered by twin turboshaft engines producing up to 2,400 horsepower each, the Caïman has a range of 1,600 kilometers (994 miles), an operational altitude of 3,500 meters (11,483 feet), and a maximum speed of 300 kilometers (186 miles) per hour.
