Interim Solution While Awaiting Guépard

The French Navy has received an H160 helicopter intended for search and rescue (SAR) missions – the first of an interim fleet of six aircraft to be provided by a partnership between Airbus Helicopters, Babcock and Safran Helicopter Engines.

“The delivery of the first H160 to a military customer is a major milestone for the H160 programme,” said Bruno Even, CEO of Airbus Helicopters.  “This is the first public service version of the H160 to be delivered worldwide. Furthermore, the delivery takes place soon after two H160s entered into service this summer in Brazil, for the private and business aviation segment and in Japan for news-gathering missions […] With this H160 we will strengthen our partnership with the French Navy, delivering the right helicopter for its critical search and rescue missions. Together with our partners, we will also ensure that the H160 is ready when needed.”

In 2020 the French government ordered four H160s in an SAR configuration, confirming an option for an additional two aircraft the following year. The first aircraft was delivered to Babcock in May, since when it has been modified, with the modular cabin adapted for SAR operations and integration of a Safran Euroflir 410 electro optical system. The interim fleet of H160s will ensure critical SARV capabilities while the Navy awaits delivery of the H160M Guépard: a total of 169 Guépards are to replace five helicopter types across the French armed forces. French Navy experience with the modified H160s will benefit the design of the military version of the aircraft and its associated support system.