On November 30th, 2007, the French Defence Procurement Agency (Délégation Générale pour l’Armement - DGA) signed a contract with NH Industries via the NATO Helicopter Design and Development Production and Logistics Management Agency (NAHEMA) to procure a total of 68 NH90 Tactical Transport Helicopters (TTH) for the French Army Aviation (ALAT). The contract included a firm order for an initial batch of 12 helicopters, with 56 options. France will order a further 22 helicopters in 2008, and the remaining 34 in 2010. The total value of the deal will be EUR 1.8 Billion, including taxes. The aircraft will be manufactured at Eurocopter’s Marignane site in France.

The contract follows France's commitment to the programme to procure 27 NH90 NATO Frigate Helicopters to equip the French Navy, ordered in June 2000.