Airbus Helicopters has begun flight testing of its new H160M Guépard combat helicopter, based on the H160 civil model. The aircraft is being developed as part of a joint light helicopter program for the French Army, Navy and Air Force.
The H160M is to replace five types of helicopters currently in service. The French Ministry of the Armed Forces plans to purchase 169 units of this model. The prototype currently undergoing testing is intended to evaluate flight characteristics, including combat firing, planned for 2026. The second prototype will undergo tests in high and low temperature conditions.
The helicopter is equipped with Safran Arrano engines, Thales FlytX avionics, a mission control system, a Euroflir 410 electro-optical system, and an AirMaster C radar. It is capable of interacting with drones and has a built-in self-defense system that automatically responds to threats in the electromagnetic and optical spectrums.
The H160M is equipped with Airbus’ HForce weapons system, which provides compatibility with a variety of weapons. The helicopter can carry 12.7 mm capsule-type machine guns and guided missiles. It also has the option of mounting 7.62 mm machine guns on a pin mount or on an articulated platform for high-precision fire operations.
Delivery of the helicopters to the French armed forces is scheduled for the end of 2028, and maintenance for the first ten years will be carried out by Airbus.