Safran and MTU launch EURA for new European military helicopter engine

Safran Helicopter Engines and MTU Aero Engines have established a new 50/50 joint venture named EURA (European Military Rotorcraft Engine Alliance), marking a significant step forward in the development of a 100% European engine for future military helicopters. This partnership was formalized at a signing ceremony held at the French Embassy in Berlin, attended by dignitaries including François Delattre, France’s Ambassador to Germany, and Thomas Hitschler, Parliamentary State Secretary at the German Federal Ministry of Defense.

The newly formed EURA will serve as the nucleus of a broader initiative involving various industrial and technological partners across Europe. The venture aims to bolster European defense capabilities by focusing on the creation of an advanced heavy helicopter engine, scheduled for deployment by 2040. This initiative not only strengthens the long-standing collaboration between Safran and MTU but also emphasizes their commitment to enhancing European military autonomy.

Based in Bordes, France, at Safran Helicopter Engines’ headquarters, EURA will be helmed by a CEO selected from MTU. The venture is set to develop technologies crucial for the next generation of rotorcraft, including hybrid-electric propulsion and high-temperature materials. These advancements will enable the future helicopters to achieve longer range, higher speed, better maneuverability, and increased availability, aligning with the objectives of the European Next Generation Rotorcraft Technologies (ENGRT) project.

EURA’s establishment is poised to stimulate specific calls for military helicopter engines under the European Defence Fund (EDF), with Safran and MTU planning to respond collaboratively alongside a consortium of capable partners. This strategic move is expected to reinforce European sovereignty and bolster the continent’s high-tech supply chain.

Cédric Goubet, CEO of Safran Helicopter Engines, expressed confidence in the venture, stating, “EURA is a guarantee of sovereignty for the future military helicopters that Europe and European nations will need.” Meanwhile, Michael Schreyögg, Chief Program Officer at MTU Aero Engines, highlighted the importance of efficient project management and quick, flexible decision-making capabilities that EURA will bring to the table.

This partnership signifies a major milestone in Europe’s defense history, promising to significantly enhance the technological capabilities of European military forces. The collaboration is part of a broader commitment by Safran and MTU, which also includes initiatives like powering the New Generation Fighter within the FCAS program.