On September 7, the French Navy took delivery of its second NH90 Caiman Marine helicopter.
This helicopter, in combat configuration with sonar and tactical operator stations, landed on the naval air base at Hyères where the Naval Air Trials and Reception Unit is stationed.
The Caiman should enter operational service with the French Navy in the northern autumn of 2011, and will be stationed at Lanvéoc naval air base in Brittany.
A total of 27 Caimans will be delivered to the naval air arm (Aéronautique navale) by 2021 to replace first the Super Frelon, and subsequently the Lynx.
The French Navy operates these helicopters for anti-submarine and anti-ship warfare, tactical transport and rescue at sea.