EFW primarily conducts planned maintenance on the advanced NH90 helicopters, featuring fly-by-wire technology and monocoque airframes, at its Dresden facility.
Elbe Flugzeugwerke GmbH (EFW) has successfully delivered the 7th NHIndustries NH90 transport helicopter as part of the ongoing maintenance program in Dresden. EFW, acting as a subcontractor of Airbus Helicopters Deutschland GmbH (AHD), has obtained approval as a military maintenance organization under Germany’s new DEMAR-145 regulations.
Over the past two years, EFW has dedicated efforts to expand its NH90 maintenance capacities and streamline throughput times. In 2022 alone, four NH90s were delivered, and an additional three helicopters were handed over to the Bundeswehr in the first half of 2023. These deliveries included transport to the International Helicopter Training Center in Bückeburg. Notably, EFW has significantly reduced throughput time, demonstrating enhanced efficiency in recent maintenance work and the completion of the 7th NH90.
EFW primarily conducts planned maintenance on the advanced NH90 helicopters, featuring fly-by-wire technology and monocoque airframes, at its Dresden facility. Upon arrival, the NH90 undergoes comprehensive disassembly. Following thorough inspection and cleaning, components and major parts such as gearboxes and chassis are repaired in EFW workshops. In addition to planned maintenance, the company addresses needs-based repairs, troubleshooting, and technical modifications.
The Program Manager for NH90, EFW said, “With the maintenance of helicopters, we at EFW have taken on a new challenge. A highly qualified and motivated team is available for the NH90, and we are constantly improving. The team is proud to support the Bundeswehr in maintaining this high-tech product.”
EFW serves as a significant industrial center for NH90 fleet maintenance alongside AHD Donauwörth, further bolstering the Bundeswehr’s support infrastructure. Outsourcing NH90 repairs to industrial companies offers several advantages for the Bundeswehr, including improved maintenance planning, reduced duration of maintenance events, and alleviation of the burden on in-house personnel. This enables the troops to focus on their operational duties without distractions.
The NH90 program is currently the largest initiative for military helicopters launched in the European Union, featuring the most advanced fly-by-wire series helicopters. The ongoing maintenance efforts by EFW and other industry partners contribute to the continuous operation and reliability of these cutting-edge aircraft, ensuring their readiness for military missions.
Read More Stories…Airbus secures extension for Luftwaffe’s A400M jet fleet Support contract
The successful completion of the 7th NH90 by EFW underscores the company’s commitment to providing high-quality maintenance services and its dedication to supporting the Bundeswehr. Through continued enhancements in maintenance capabilities and optimized processes, EFW aims to contribute to the long-term operational effectiveness of the NH90 fleet, enabling the Bundeswehr to fulfill its essential obligations seamlessly.
