Belgium’s military intelligence service is investigating a potential Chinese takeover of a helicopter company that could gain access to both critical energy infrastructure and newly purchased military aircraft, according to reporting by Belga News Agency.
Photo: Cara Irina Wagner – Airbus
The probe centers on NHV, an Ostend-based company that operates 27 helicopters serving offshore wind farms and oil platforms in the North Sea. The firm is also competing for a contract to maintain Belgium’s fleet of new H145M military helicopters, raising concerns within the Defense Ministry and federal government about possible Chinese involvement in sensitive operations.
Last year, NHV announced it would be acquired by GD Helicopter Finance, an Irish company. However, officials discovered that GD Helicopter Finance is itself owned by GDAT, a Chinese firm. The arrangement would effectively place NHV under Chinese control, according to the investigation.
The timing is particularly sensitive. Belgium signed a contract in June 2024 through the NATO Support and Procurement Agency to acquire 15 Airbus H145M helicopters for the army and two for the Federal Police, with three additional options. The multi-role aircraft are designed for tactical airlift, special operations, and medical evacuation missions. NHV is seeking to become a subcontractor for maintaining this fleet.
Belgium’s military intelligence agency, ADIV, began its investigation over concerns that China could gain access to the country’s energy infrastructure and military systems. The North Sea installations that NHV services are considered vital to Belgium’s energy supply. If the takeover proceeds and NHV wins the maintenance contract, a Chinese-linked company would be involved in servicing military aircraft.
The case is being reviewed under new regulations that allow the government to block foreign investments in key sectors on national security grounds. These rules give authorities the power to intervene when strategic assets or sensitive capabilities might fall under foreign control.
NHV has defended the proposed acquisition, stating that the takeover will not affect its operations and that the company will remain under European management. However, government officials have warned that completing the deal could cost NHV its opportunity to work on military contracts.
The H145M helicopter represents a significant investment in Belgium’s defense capabilities. Built by Airbus Helicopters, the aircraft can be reconfigured within minutes from light attack roles to special operations missions. It features advanced avionics and a low acoustic signature, making it among the quietest helicopters in its class.
The Belgian government has not yet announced a decision on whether to block the NHV takeover. The case reflects broader European concerns about Chinese investment in critical infrastructure and defense-related industries, particularly as countries strengthen their screening of foreign acquisitions in strategic sectors.
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