Airbus to equip Spanish NH90 helicopters with Q-SLAM-40 loitering munitions to combine reconnaissance and strike capabilities
{loadposition bannertop}
{loadposition sidebarpub}
At the FEINDEF 2025 defense and security exhibition held in Madrid from May 12 to 14, Airbus Helicopters in Spain and the Spanish technology company Arquimea signed a collaboration agreement to integrate the Q-SLAM-40 loitering munition onto the NH90 multipurpose helicopter. The agreement, formalized on May 14, 2025, is intended to expand the operational capabilities available to the NH90 platform. According to both companies, this integration will allow the helicopter to conduct intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance (ISR) missions, strike operations, counter-unmanned aerial vehicle (C-UAV) tasks, and the coordinated launch of loitering munition swarms directly from the aircraft. Follow Army Recognition on Google News at this link
This integration will allow the NH90 helicopter to conduct intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance (ISR) missions, strike operations, counter-unmanned aerial vehicle (C-UAV) tasks, and the coordinated launch of loitering munition swarms. (Picture source: Spanish Air Force)
The Q-SLAM-40 is an electrically powered, rotary-wing loitering munition developed by Arquimea. It has a stated endurance of 25 minutes and a maximum operational range of 25 kilometers. The system supports interchangeable payloads based on mission needs and is designed to be launched from multiple platforms, including helicopters and land vehicles. Arquimea states that the Q-SLAM-40 does not rely on satellite navigation and incorporates artificial intelligence algorithms to enhance situational awareness, enable real-time data transmission, and coordinate swarm behavior. The ability to launch the munition directly from a helicopter is intended to shorten the observe-orient-decide-act (OODA) loop. The company recently expanded its production capacity and plans to manufacture over 1,000 Q-SLAM-40 units per month. Arquimea’s loitering munition portfolio includes both the Q-SLAM-40, which has been adopted by several countries, and the newly introduced Q-SLAM-100, unveiled at FEINDEF 2025 with increased range and improved specifications.
The Q-SLAM-40 has also been adapted for integration with multi-launch platforms on unmanned ground and light tactical vehicles. At FEINDEF 2025, Arquimea demonstrated a version mounted on the UGV Spectre developed by Duma, featuring five launch tubes and a total carrying capacity of up to 18 loitering munitions. Another configuration was shown on the Falcata light vehicle produced by Einsa, which included three launch tubes and space for up to 16 munitions. These demonstrations indicate that the system is designed for modular deployment across a variety of vehicle types, including rotary-wing aircraft such as the NH90.
The move also reflects a wider effort to accelerate manned-unmanned teaming capabilities, in advance of the projected 2040 timeline previously linked to the NH90 Block 2 variant. Airbus Helicopters holds a 62.5% stake in NHIndustries, the consortium responsible for manufacturing the NH90, and Spain currently has a program of record for 45 NH90 helicopters, with more than 20 already operational. Airbus Helicopters also presented the navalized NH90 variant known as “Sable” at FEINDEF 2025, which is scheduled for delivery to the Fourteenth Squadron of the Spanish Navy’s Aircraft Fleet (FLOAN). One of the three helicopters expected for delivery in 2025 was exhibited at the event, with the remaining seven aircraft planned for delivery by 2026. These naval versions are based on the German Sea Lion model and feature shipboard adaptations, including reinforced landing gear, folding systems for rotors and tail, and deck securing mechanisms.
Arquimea states that the Q-SLAM-40 does not rely on satellite navigation and incorporates artificial intelligence algorithms to enhance situational awareness, enable real-time data transmission, and coordinate swarm behavior. (Picture source: Army Recognition)
Although designated as a transport helicopter (HT 29), the NH90 Sable is capable of supporting multiple mission configurations that can be exchanged in under five hours, according to Airbus data. Configurations include anti-submarine warfare (ASW), maritime surveillance, and general transport roles. The helicopter supports a tactical systems operator console and is equipped with low-frequency dipping sonar, sonobuoys, Link 16 communications, and various armaments including Mk 46, Mk 54, and MU 90 torpedoes, as well as Spike and Marte missiles and light door-mounted machine guns.
In addition to the NH90, Airbus Helicopters also exhibited two H135 models at FEINDEF 2025. One of these is operated by the Spanish National Police Air Force, while the second was recently delivered to the Civil Guard Air Service (SAER) and arrived at the exhibition from its main base at Torrejón Air Base. These aircraft are part of an ongoing contract to supply up to 36 H135 helicopters, divided evenly between the Armed Forces and the State Security Forces. The H135s are fitted with updated avionics systems, including the Helionix suite, which incorporates artificial intelligence functions intended to assist with navigation, flight management, and mission execution.
Airbus Helicopters also used FEINDEF 2025 to present a detailed comparative analysis of the NH90 NFH (NATO Frigate Helicopter) and the MH-60R Seahawk, both of which have been ordered by Spain. The NH90 NFH accommodates two crew members and up to 20 passengers, while the MH-60R supports two crew and a maximum of three passengers. In ASW or anti-surface warfare (ASuW) roles, the NH90 NFH can transport 10 troops in addition to a tactical systems operator, compared to the MH-60R, which supports only the operator. The NH90 has a maximum takeoff weight (MTOW) of 11,000 kg and an external load capacity of 4,000 kg, while the MH-60R has an MTOW of 10,659.6 kg and an external load capacity of 2,721 kg.
The NH90 is powered by twin engines delivering 1,788 kW for takeoff and 1,661 kW continuously, whereas the MH-60R delivers 1,410 kW at takeoff and 1,240 kW continuously. Standard fuel tank capacity is 2,514 liters for the NH90 and 2,233 liters for the MH-60R. With these fuel loads, the NH90 has a standard range of 900 km and up to 1,600 km with auxiliary tanks, with an endurance of 4 hours. The MH-60R achieves a range of 688 km standard and 1,022 km with auxiliary tanks, and has an endurance of 2 hours and 50 minutes. Cruise speeds are 274 km/h for the NH90 and 267 km/h for the MH-60R.
Airbus Helicopters also presented the navalized NH90 variant known as “Sable” at FEINDEF 2025, which is scheduled for delivery to the Fourteenth Squadron of the Spanish Navy’s Aircraft Fleet. (Picture source: Army Recognition)
Cabin access and layout also differ significantly. The NH90 includes two sliding doors and a rear ramp, while the MH-60R features only one sliding door and lacks an emergency flotation system, which is standard on the NH90. Cabin door dimensions are 1.50 meters by 1.60 meters for the NH90 and 1.37 meters by 1.12 meters for the MH-60R. The interior cabin length measures 6.20 meters in the NH90 compared to 3.20 meters in the MH-60R. Cabin volume and usable area are 15.20 cubic meters and 8.20 square meters for the NH90, versus 11.22 cubic meters and 6.08 square meters for the MH-60R.
The helicopters also differ in external dimensions and mission systems. The NH90 has a folded height of 4.21 meters and a fuselage width of 3.63 meters, while the MH-60R measures 4.04 meters in height and 3.22 meters in width. These figures vary slightly based on configurations, such as the NH90 with two HSCs or the MH-60R with pylons. In terms of acoustic and electronic warfare systems, the NH90 uses the FLASH SONIC sonar developed by Thales and SAES, while the MH-60R is equipped with the ALFS AN/AQS-22 sonar from Raytheon or legacy systems from Thales. Electronic warfare systems include DIRCM from INDRA (GSPA Std.3) and optional infrared jamming from BAES for the NH90, while the MH-60R features electronic support measures (ESM) from Lockheed Martin, adapted from the EA-6B Prowler.
Finally, the two helicopters are governed by different export regulations and modernization paths. The NH90 falls under the European Union’s export control regime and benefits from a Life Upgrade process influenced by the Future Vertical Lift (FVL) initiative. By contrast, the MH-60R is subject to U.S. International Traffic in Arms Regulations (ITAR) and is sold through the Foreign Military Sales (FMS) program. As of 2019, no confirmed equivalent long-term upgrade path exists for the MH-60R, which influences how each aircraft can be updated and exported, a distinction emphasized during the FEINDEF 2025 event.
{loadposition bannertop}
{loadposition sidebarpub}
At the FEINDEF 2025 defense and security exhibition held in Madrid from May 12 to 14, Airbus Helicopters in Spain and the Spanish technology company Arquimea signed a collaboration agreement to integrate the Q-SLAM-40 loitering munition onto the NH90 multipurpose helicopter. The agreement, formalized on May 14, 2025, is intended to expand the operational capabilities available to the NH90 platform. According to both companies, this integration will allow the helicopter to conduct intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance (ISR) missions, strike operations, counter-unmanned aerial vehicle (C-UAV) tasks, and the coordinated launch of loitering munition swarms directly from the aircraft.
Follow Army Recognition on Google News at this link
This integration will allow the NH90 helicopter to conduct intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance (ISR) missions, strike operations, counter-unmanned aerial vehicle (C-UAV) tasks, and the coordinated launch of loitering munition swarms. (Picture source: Spanish Air Force)
The Q-SLAM-40 is an electrically powered, rotary-wing loitering munition developed by Arquimea. It has a stated endurance of 25 minutes and a maximum operational range of 25 kilometers. The system supports interchangeable payloads based on mission needs and is designed to be launched from multiple platforms, including helicopters and land vehicles. Arquimea states that the Q-SLAM-40 does not rely on satellite navigation and incorporates artificial intelligence algorithms to enhance situational awareness, enable real-time data transmission, and coordinate swarm behavior. The ability to launch the munition directly from a helicopter is intended to shorten the observe-orient-decide-act (OODA) loop. The company recently expanded its production capacity and plans to manufacture over 1,000 Q-SLAM-40 units per month. Arquimea’s loitering munition portfolio includes both the Q-SLAM-40, which has been adopted by several countries, and the newly introduced Q-SLAM-100, unveiled at FEINDEF 2025 with increased range and improved specifications.
The Q-SLAM-40 has also been adapted for integration with multi-launch platforms on unmanned ground and light tactical vehicles. At FEINDEF 2025, Arquimea demonstrated a version mounted on the UGV Spectre developed by Duma, featuring five launch tubes and a total carrying capacity of up to 18 loitering munitions. Another configuration was shown on the Falcata light vehicle produced by Einsa, which included three launch tubes and space for up to 16 munitions. These demonstrations indicate that the system is designed for modular deployment across a variety of vehicle types, including rotary-wing aircraft such as the NH90.
The move also reflects a wider effort to accelerate manned-unmanned teaming capabilities, in advance of the projected 2040 timeline previously linked to the NH90 Block 2 variant. Airbus Helicopters holds a 62.5% stake in NHIndustries, the consortium responsible for manufacturing the NH90, and Spain currently has a program of record for 45 NH90 helicopters, with more than 20 already operational. Airbus Helicopters also presented the navalized NH90 variant known as “Sable” at FEINDEF 2025, which is scheduled for delivery to the Fourteenth Squadron of the Spanish Navy’s Aircraft Fleet (FLOAN). One of the three helicopters expected for delivery in 2025 was exhibited at the event, with the remaining seven aircraft planned for delivery by 2026. These naval versions are based on the German Sea Lion model and feature shipboard adaptations, including reinforced landing gear, folding systems for rotors and tail, and deck securing mechanisms.
Arquimea states that the Q-SLAM-40 does not rely on satellite navigation and incorporates artificial intelligence algorithms to enhance situational awareness, enable real-time data transmission, and coordinate swarm behavior. (Picture source: Army Recognition)
Although designated as a transport helicopter (HT 29), the NH90 Sable is capable of supporting multiple mission configurations that can be exchanged in under five hours, according to Airbus data. Configurations include anti-submarine warfare (ASW), maritime surveillance, and general transport roles. The helicopter supports a tactical systems operator console and is equipped with low-frequency dipping sonar, sonobuoys, Link 16 communications, and various armaments including Mk 46, Mk 54, and MU 90 torpedoes, as well as Spike and Marte missiles and light door-mounted machine guns.
In addition to the NH90, Airbus Helicopters also exhibited two H135 models at FEINDEF 2025. One of these is operated by the Spanish National Police Air Force, while the second was recently delivered to the Civil Guard Air Service (SAER) and arrived at the exhibition from its main base at Torrejón Air Base. These aircraft are part of an ongoing contract to supply up to 36 H135 helicopters, divided evenly between the Armed Forces and the State Security Forces. The H135s are fitted with updated avionics systems, including the Helionix suite, which incorporates artificial intelligence functions intended to assist with navigation, flight management, and mission execution.
Airbus Helicopters also used FEINDEF 2025 to present a detailed comparative analysis of the NH90 NFH (NATO Frigate Helicopter) and the MH-60R Seahawk, both of which have been ordered by Spain. The NH90 NFH accommodates two crew members and up to 20 passengers, while the MH-60R supports two crew and a maximum of three passengers. In ASW or anti-surface warfare (ASuW) roles, the NH90 NFH can transport 10 troops in addition to a tactical systems operator, compared to the MH-60R, which supports only the operator. The NH90 has a maximum takeoff weight (MTOW) of 11,000 kg and an external load capacity of 4,000 kg, while the MH-60R has an MTOW of 10,659.6 kg and an external load capacity of 2,721 kg.
The NH90 is powered by twin engines delivering 1,788 kW for takeoff and 1,661 kW continuously, whereas the MH-60R delivers 1,410 kW at takeoff and 1,240 kW continuously. Standard fuel tank capacity is 2,514 liters for the NH90 and 2,233 liters for the MH-60R. With these fuel loads, the NH90 has a standard range of 900 km and up to 1,600 km with auxiliary tanks, with an endurance of 4 hours. The MH-60R achieves a range of 688 km standard and 1,022 km with auxiliary tanks, and has an endurance of 2 hours and 50 minutes. Cruise speeds are 274 km/h for the NH90 and 267 km/h for the MH-60R.
Airbus Helicopters also presented the navalized NH90 variant known as “Sable” at FEINDEF 2025, which is scheduled for delivery to the Fourteenth Squadron of the Spanish Navy’s Aircraft Fleet. (Picture source: Army Recognition)
Cabin access and layout also differ significantly. The NH90 includes two sliding doors and a rear ramp, while the MH-60R features only one sliding door and lacks an emergency flotation system, which is standard on the NH90. Cabin door dimensions are 1.50 meters by 1.60 meters for the NH90 and 1.37 meters by 1.12 meters for the MH-60R. The interior cabin length measures 6.20 meters in the NH90 compared to 3.20 meters in the MH-60R. Cabin volume and usable area are 15.20 cubic meters and 8.20 square meters for the NH90, versus 11.22 cubic meters and 6.08 square meters for the MH-60R.
The helicopters also differ in external dimensions and mission systems. The NH90 has a folded height of 4.21 meters and a fuselage width of 3.63 meters, while the MH-60R measures 4.04 meters in height and 3.22 meters in width. These figures vary slightly based on configurations, such as the NH90 with two HSCs or the MH-60R with pylons. In terms of acoustic and electronic warfare systems, the NH90 uses the FLASH SONIC sonar developed by Thales and SAES, while the MH-60R is equipped with the ALFS AN/AQS-22 sonar from Raytheon or legacy systems from Thales. Electronic warfare systems include DIRCM from INDRA (GSPA Std.3) and optional infrared jamming from BAES for the NH90, while the MH-60R features electronic support measures (ESM) from Lockheed Martin, adapted from the EA-6B Prowler.
Finally, the two helicopters are governed by different export regulations and modernization paths. The NH90 falls under the European Union’s export control regime and benefits from a Life Upgrade process influenced by the Future Vertical Lift (FVL) initiative. By contrast, the MH-60R is subject to U.S. International Traffic in Arms Regulations (ITAR) and is sold through the Foreign Military Sales (FMS) program. As of 2019, no confirmed equivalent long-term upgrade path exists for the MH-60R, which influences how each aircraft can be updated and exported, a distinction emphasized during the FEINDEF 2025 event.
