Belgian military investigates Chinese-linked takeover of helicopter firm

Belgium’s military intelligence service, ADIV, is investigating the helicopter company NHV, based in Ostend, over concerns about national security.
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​NHV operates 27 helicopters that transport workers to offshore wind farms and oil platforms in the North Sea. These sites are vital to the country’s energy supply. The company is also bidding for a major Defence contract to maintain new military helicopters.

Last year, it was announced that NHV would be taken over by Irish firm GD Helicopter Finance. However, this company is owned by China’s GDAT. This means NHV could effectively come under Chinese control.

The possible takeover has raised alarm within the Defence Ministry and the federal government, VRT NWS writes. Officials fear that China could gain access to sensitive infrastructure and military systems.

Belgium recently ordered 20 Airbus H145M helicopters for the army and police. NHV is seeking to become a subcontractor for their maintenance. If the takeover goes ahead, a Chinese-linked company could then be involved in servicing military aircraft.

The government is now reviewing the case under new rules that allow foreign investments in key sectors to be blocked for security reasons.

NHV says the takeover will not affect its operations and insists it will remain under European management. However, officials have warned that if the deal is completed, NHV may lose the chance to work on military contracts.

​​^{#FlandersNewsService | ​ A NH-90 helicopter in Oostend © BELGA PHOTO KURT DESPLENTER}