Belgian NH90s deploy to Gabon

BELGIUM HAS deployed two of its NH90 Tactical Transport Helicopters to Africa for the first time. The 18 Smaldeel (18 Squadron) helicopters, along with two A109BAs and three C-130Hs, supported Exercise Tropical Storm 2017, held in Gabon between September 15 and October 15. In addition to supporting the exercise, their suitability for operations in this type of climate was tested, in readiness for a possible operational deployment to Mali next year. The NH90s were airlifted to Gabon on board an