Nexter is upgrading its THL30 turret to equip the modernized Tiger attack and ground support helicopter. The turret's lateral displacement has been increased and its weight reduced thanks to modernized electronics. It will enter service in 2028.

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Nexter/KNDS' THL30 is a light turret armed with a 30mm gun, designed specifically for the Tiger helicopter (Picture source: Nexter/KNDS)

Nexter, a KNDS company, is enhancing the performance of its THL30 turret for upgraded Tiger helicopters, the new standard developed by Airbus Helicopters on behalf of OCCAR, and financed by the French and Spanish governments. This work is focused primarily on increasing its lateral clearance to enable it to engage targets at more than 90° to either side.

In addition, onboard electronics are being modernized to optimize weight and volume. These gains are essential for Airbus Helicopters to stay within the weight limit set for the upgraded Tiger and complete the development of this new standard. The THL30 retrofit kits will be delivered by Nexter to Airbus Helicopters at its sites in Marignane, France and Albacete, Spain.

The THL30 is a light turret armed with a 30mm gun and designed specifically for the Tiger helicopter. Its rate of fire can reach 720 rounds per minute. Developed in the late 1990s and produced in 136 units between 2003 and 2014 for France, Spain and Australia, the THL30 has proved its capacities in numerous theatres of operation, including Afghanistan, Libya and Mali.

Nexter's initial THL30 helicopter turret (Picture source: Wikipedia/David Monniaux)