Helicopter Model H160M Takes Form in Design Process
Airbus H160M Military Helicopter: Integration and Testing Progress
The Airbus H160M, codenamed Guépard, is making significant strides in its development and testing process. This military helicopter, serving as a unified platform for the French Army, Navy, and Air and Space Force, is set to replace five older helicopter types under France’s Joint Light Helicopter (HIL) program.
The first H160M prototype began final assembly at Airbus Helicopters' site in Marignane in July, with the maiden flight scheduled for 2025. Its primary objective is to validate flight performance and conduct firing campaigns starting in 2026.
Meanwhile, the second prototype, currently in final assembly, will focus on hot and cold weather testing alongside other evaluations. The development and testing process for the H160M involves producing three prototypes, each with distinct objectives.
Key components and system integration include Thales’ FlytX avionics suite, specialized mission systems for multirole operations and integrated drone cooperation, Safran’s Euroflir 410 electro-optical system, Thales’ AirMaster C radar, a comprehensive self-protection system, and weapons integration capable of using FN Herstal 12.7mm podded machine guns.
Flight testing includes initial flights focused on validating flight dynamics and handling, subsequent firing campaigns and weapons integration trials, environmental testing under extreme temperatures, system integration tests, and close involvement of flight test crew.
Significant progress has been made in integrating key systems. The HForce equipment, Euroflir 410 electro-optical system, FlytX flight deck feature, TopOwl helicopter pilot head-up display helmet, inertial navigation system, communication systems, GNSS, and other systems have been delivered and integrated into the test bench.
Digital simulations cannot replace real-life testing in measuring the aerodynamic impact of equipment on the H160M's in-flight performance. Therefore, tests have been conducted while in flight using an Airbus H160 prototype.
The French Navy has set up an integrated in-flight test team with personnel from the armed forces and Airbus Helicopters, who are preparing the next phases of the development and test programme of the H160M. The French Ministry for the Armed Forces plans to order a total of 169 H160M helicopters.
Each H160 and H160M is made up of four Major Component Assemblies (MCA). The main gear box, blades, tail boom, and main fuselage are built and assembled at various Airbus Helicopters sites in Marignane, Paris le Bourget, Albacete, and Donauwörth.
Airbus Helicopters will build three H160M prototypes for developing the military version of the latest helicopter in their range. The pre-serial H160 is being used to test some of the autopilot modes that will also be available on the H160M. The "system helicopter zero" test bench for the H160M has been built and is operational, connecting real systems to be used on the helicopter for physical integration and testing.
In December 2021, the French Armament General Directorate (DGA) signed a contract with Airbus Helicopters for the development and procurement of the H160M. Thales has previously tested its new-generation avionics and mission suite for helicopters in flight. Safran has supplied the Euroflir 410 electro-optical system for the H160M.
This structured approach aims to meet the French Armed Forces’ ambition for a modern, multi-branch common helicopter platform with cutting-edge technology and strong operational versatility.
