Helicopter Model H160M begins to take form

Airbus Helicopters Unveils H160M Prototype, Marking a Leap in Military Aviation

Airbus Helicopters has announced the development of the H160M, a new addition to their range of helicopters, designed specifically for military operations. The company will build three prototypes for testing and integration of key systems.

The H160M is a modular, multi-role platform, designed for interoperability and operational flexibility across all branches of the French Armed Forces. It is made up of four Major Component Assemblies (MCA).

The advanced resilient navigation systems integrated into the H160M ensure operational reliability even in contested or jammed environments. Secure radio communication systems enable full integration and coordination across air, land-air, and maritime operations, including interoperability with drones.

The HForce modular weapon integration system, developed by Airbus, supports various armament options such as machine guns, sniper rifles, and Thales laser-guided rockets. The TELSON launcher system using induction-activated firing will also be tested.

Next-generation sensors and advanced mission systems, including Thales FlytX avionics, have been integrated into the H160M. A self-protection suite covering electromagnetic and optical spectrums enhances the helicopter's survivability.

The H160M is also designed for joint operations, supporting roles like armed reconnaissance, close air support, combat insertion, intelligence gathering, surveillance, light transport, and medical evacuation. Moreover, it features a drone cooperation system to leverage unmanned capabilities alongside manned flight.

Powering the H160M are Safran Arrano engines, and the helicopter incorporates about 68 patented innovations in efficiency and safety.

Testing activities have commenced, focusing on validating flight performance, aerodynamics, systems integration, and radar signatures using a specially equipped testbed. This will be followed by live firing trials, environmental testing (extreme hot and cold conditions), and integration of weapons systems.

The first flight of the H160M prototype is scheduled for 2025. The test bench has integrated the HForce equipment, Safran's Euroflir 410 electro-optical system, Thales' FlytX flight deck feature, TopOwl helicopter pilot head-up display helmet, inertial navigation system, communication systems, and global navigation satellite system (GNSS).

The French Navy has set up an integrated in-flight test team with personnel from the armed forces and Airbus Helicopters. This team is preparing the next phases of the development and test programme of the H160M, using a pre-serial H160 to test some of the autopilot modes that will also be available on the H160M.

Airbus Helicopters is collaborating with the DGA, armed forces, and industrial partners for the development of the H160M programme. The main fuselage for the H160M comes from Donauwörth, Germany, while the blades are manufactured in Paris le Bourget, France. The tail boom is manufactured in Albacete, Spain, and the main gear box is manufactured in Marignane, France.

In December 2021, the French Armament General Directorate signed a contract with Airbus Helicopters for the development and procurement of the H160M as part of the Light Joint Helicopter programme. Digital simulations have been used for aerodynamic testing of the H160M's sensors, communication antennas, electronic warfare systems, and landing gear, but real-life testing is crucial for measuring their impact on the helicopter's in-flight performance.

As the H160M prototype enters its final assembly phase at Airbus Helicopters' site in Marignane, anticipation builds for this innovative helicopter that promises to revolutionise military aviation.

[1] Airbus Helicopters to build three H160M prototypes [2] H160M: The New Multi-Role Helicopter for the French Armed Forces [3] Airbus Helicopters and Thales to collaborate on the H160M programme [4] Safran Arrano engine powers the H160M helicopter [5] Digital simulations for the H160M helicopter