Full-Scale NH90 Replica to Train Dutch Mechanics

Production has begun on an NH90 Maintenance Training Rig (MTR) for the Netherlands’ Materiel and IT Command (COMMIT), following the project’s official kick-off in Berg, Germany. Procured through the NATO Helicopter Management Agency (NAHEMA), the trainer will be built by Reiser Simulation and Training GmbH (REISER) to train NH90 mechanics and avionics specialists in Den Helder. Delivery is scheduled for the end of 2028.

The MTR is a full-scale replica of the naval version of the NH90. It will reproduce the aircraft’s training-relevant structure, components and interfaces without using original aircraft parts, and will support more than 1,100 mechanical and 150 avionics training tasks, including component removal and installation, adjustments, functional checks and fault identification.

Practical training has until now relied on operational NH90 helicopters. The MTR will allow personnel to repeat procedures on replica components, reducing the need to use operational aircraft and original parts for training and helping keep helicopters available for their primary missions. It can also be integrated into the practical element of a military aircraft maintenance training course approved in line with EMAR 66 requirements.

MTRs are already in use with the German, French and New Zealand armed forces, and the Dutch MTR will be the ninth in operation. Dutch mechanics attended the Factory Acceptance Test of the German MTR last week.

“Close cooperation between NAHEMA, COMMIT and REISER enabled us to prepare the contract in record time. Everyone involved was committed to moving the project forward,” says Sylvain Rid, Head of Business Line Maintenance Training and Components of REISER. “We are proud to supply another NH90 MTR that will play a key role in modern maintenance training.”