To boost European sovereignty in aerospace, engine experts Safran Helicopter Engines, MTU Aero Engines, and Avio Aero have teamed up to develop the European Next Generation Helicopter Engine (ENGHE)—a fully European engine slated to power next-gen military rotorcraft by around 2040. This partnership was formalized through a long-term agreement at the Paris Air Show.
The trio agrees that Europe’s armed forces require a helicopter engine that combines advanced technical maturity with affordable operational and maintenance costs. Safran, MTU, and Avio Aero will share the development workload equally. Their cooperation forms the nucleus of an expanded European partnership that will include other member states.
This collaboration builds on recent milestones: Safran and MTU first announced their cooperation on a new helicopter engine in 2023 and established a 50/50 joint venture, EURA (European Military Rotorcraft Engine Alliance), last year. Avio Aero’s expertise in military helicopter engines will now enhance the team.
At the signing event, Sean White of the European Defence Agency underscored the urgent importance of cross-border industrial collaboration to strengthen European sovereignty and supply chain security.
This alliance is expected to bolster the competitiveness of their bid for the European Defence Fund’s call for next-generation helicopter engines, with EURA coordinating the submission due in October 2025.
The ENGHE engine will introduce breakthrough innovations that increase efficiency and reduce operating costs. Designed to complement ENGRT and NGRC initiatives, it will provide future rotorcraft with greater range, speed, maneuverability, and availability. Key features include lower fuel burn, full sustainable aviation fuel compatibility, and enhanced electric hybrid integration.
