• Airbus Helicopters began ENGRT’s three-year second phase in early 2026, shifting the European military helicopter project from technology research to development.
• The first phase, completed at the end of 2025, established technology readiness baselines for open systems architecture and helicopter-drone teaming.
• The EU-cofunded second phase will advance technology readiness, including an open systems architecture test bench to assess system integration.
• Development targets include a 50% reduction in maintenance requirements compared with existing helicopters, alongside improved survivability and reduced logistical needs.
• The next-generation rotorcraft is expected to make its first flight before the end of the next decade.

Disclaimer: This news brief was created by Public Technologies (PUBT) using generative artificial intelligence. While PUBT strives to provide accurate and timely information, this AI-generated content is for informational purposes only and should not be interpreted as financial, investment, or legal advice. Airbus SE published the original content used to generate this news brief on October 19, 2026, and is solely responsible for the information contained therein.