France Secures H160M for Revolutionary Joint Light Helicopter Initiative
The French Armament General Directorate (DGA) has finalized an agreement with Airbus Helicopters for the advancement and acquisition of the H160M within the scope of the Light Joint Helicopter program (HIL). This agreement encompasses the creation of multiple prototypes and the provision of an initial set of 30 aircraft (21 designated for the army, 8 for the navy, and 1 for the air force). The French Ministry for the Armed Forces aims to procure a total of 169 H160M helicopters, or Guépard, as it will be recognized within the French military. Deliveries are scheduled to commence in 2027, starting with the French Army.
“The Guépard represents a decade of intensive collaboration with the DGA and the French military,” stated Bruno Even, CEO of Airbus Helicopters. “The H160M will enhance the capabilities of the armed forces as it is tailored for contemporary warfare, thanks to its improved connectivity, agility, minimal acoustic profile, and a fully integrated support framework. Having the French armed forces—a global benchmark—as our launch customer for the H160M is immensely beneficial.”
The H160M, as the pioneer of a new generation of helicopters, is based on the EASA-certified H160. It offers a cost-effective operation model and optimized flight safety. The H160 was engineered to serve as a modular helicopter, allowing its military configuration to undertake diverse missions, ranging from special operations to air interception, fire support, and anti-ship combat, catering to the requirements of the army, navy, and air force. To maintain a high availability rate while minimizing operational expenses, the support and service necessities for the H160M were integrated early in its design process. The H160M features a forward-thinking and simplified support system that leverages data analytics.
Airbus Helicopters will ensure a robust level of availability through an inventive maintenance contract. The organization pledges to employ a groundbreaking approach to upkeep and aircraft accessibility through a specialized entity renowned for its successful track record. This entity was initiated with the global support contract established in 2020 for the French Cougar and Caracal fleet, resulting in a substantial boost in aircraft availability.
Experiments conducted in the Moroccan desert in July 2021 showcased the effectiveness of the H160’s inlet barrier filtration mechanism in safeguarding Safran Arrano engines against sand ingestion. The trials also demonstrated the proficiency of the automatic flight control system during takeoffs and landings under challenging visibility conditions due to sand clouds. The H160M is poised to function efficiently in the most arduous environments.
The military variant of the H160 will operate with greater discretion compared to predecessor helicopters, featuring a diminished acoustic signature made achievable by the Blue Edge blades. The H160’s stability, agility, and automated flight control system will serve as key advantages for the military configuration. The H160M will be outfitted with Airbus Helicopters’ HForce weapon system, a modular and scalable solution that allows for a wide range of armaments. Additional equipment will encompass a hoist and a fast roping apparatus.
The H160M Guépard will incorporate the Safran Euroflir 410 electro-optical system, the Thales FlytX cockpit avionics suite, and AirMaster C radar. Pilots will be equipped with the Thales TopOwl Helmet-mounted Sight & Display. The Guépard will also feature a self-defense suite, a satellite communication system, and a tactical data link capability. The armament will include the MBDA ANL anti-ship missile along with door-mounted and pod-mounted weapons.
