Safran Helicopter Engines, MTU Aero Engines and Avio Aero have officially joined forces to develop the European next-generation helicopter engine (ENGHE), marking a significant step toward strengthening Europe’s defence sovereignty. A long-term partnership agreement was signed at the Paris Air Show, formalising the collaboration of these three leading aerospace firms in creating a 100% European engine for the continent’s next-generation military helicopters, expected to enter service around 2040.
This trilateral cooperation builds upon momentum generated over the past two years. Safran and MTU initiated their partnership in 2023 and subsequently launched a 50/50 joint venture named EURA (European Military Rotorcraft Engine Alliance). With the inclusion of Avio Aero, the alliance gains additional military engine expertise and capability, further reinforcing its strategic position. Workshare on the programme will be evenly distributed among the three companies, ensuring balanced input and leveraging each partner’s unique technological strengths.
The ENGHE programme aims to deliver an advanced propulsion system with high design maturity, robust performance and cost-effective maintenance and operation – crucial factors for European armed forces operating in diverse environments. It will also support Europe’s broader ambitions of reducing reliance on non-European defence technologies, aligning with current geopolitical priorities.
Cédric Goubet, CEO of Safran Helicopter Engines, stated: “We are delighted to extend our cooperation in the field of future military helicopter engines with Avio Aero. The next step in this decisive cooperation to strengthen Europe’s autonomy in the field of defence and security will be to respond to the specific call for a future helicopter engine within the European Defence Fund, with the versatile European team of top European aerospace partners that has already been set up under the coordination of EURA.”
The partnership also signals the formation of a broader European network, as the companies plan to engage additional partners across the continent, building a strong, long-term industrial base for military rotorcraft propulsion.
