Airbus to Develop Modular Guépard While Delivering Initial Production Models

The French Armament General Directorate (DGA) announced a large contract with Airbus Helicopters for not only the purchase, but the development of the H160M as a part of their Light Joint Helicopter program (HIL). The contract includes a primer batch of 30 aircraft and a series of prototypes, with space to expand orders to a total quantity of 169 total. The initial group of production aircraft will be split 3 ways, with the army taking 21, the navy 8, and a single helo for the air force. Interestingly, the program will include the development of several prototypes as France narrows down their demands for a single helicopter. 

“The Guépard is the result of ten years of close cooperation with the DGA and the French armed forces,” said Bruno Even, CEO of Airbus Helicopters. “The H160M will bring new capabilities to the armed forces as it is adapted to modern warfare thanks to its increased connectivity, maneuverability, low acoustic footprint, and a fully integrated support system. Having the French armed forces, a world reference, as our launch customer for the H160M is extremely valuable.”  

The Guépard is derived from the H160 already certified in the EU as an affordable, reliable platform. The H160M is geared towards modularity, capable of layouts for missions from troop insertion and infiltration, air interception, fire support, and anti-ship warfare. During its initial design process, Airbus pared down and simplified equipment where possible, aiming for a high uptime while in service. That assurance is enhanced through an Airbus maintenance contract that will see the organization handle the logistics of the H160M just as they have for the successful Cougar and Caracal fleet. 

Other notable deviations from the civilian-spec H160 include a reduced acoustic signature, owing primarily to its Blue Edge rotor blades. An enhanced automatic flight control system will enable greater stability and maneuverability than a passenger aircraft, vital for combat use. Eventually, the French H160M fleet could swell to fill the anticipated 169 units, if the aircraft is all it's cracked up to be. Deliveries to the French Army begin in 2027. 

FMI: www.airbus.com