Partners Test RSAF’s H225M Helicopter Alongside the Airbus Flexrotor UAS

Airbus Helicopters will be working with Singapore’s Defense Science and Technology Agency (DSTA) in order to test crewed-uncrewed teaming capabilities. To do so, they will be putting the Singapore Air Force’s (RSAF) H225M Medium Lift helicopter to work alongside the Airbus Flexrotor UAS.

Under the agreement, Airbus will integrate its new modular HTeaming system into the H225M. The system includes a modem, antennas, a tablet, and supporting software, enabling the helicopter crew to operate the Flexrotor in flight. The concept is to allow helicopter crews to manage UAS tasks directly, providing real-time intelligence and extending the helicopter’s operational reach.

DSTA Chief Executive Ng Chad-Son said the collaboration could serve as a “force multiplier,” enabling more effective air operations in complex environments.

“The collaboration between helicopters and UAS is a revolution in how we approach mission effectiveness,” Airbus Helicopters CEO Bruno Even added. “Synergising the strengths of highly skilled pilots with the advanced capabilities of uncrewed systems unlocks unprecedented operational flexibility.”

The H225M, already used by the RSAF for demanding missions such as nighttime search and rescue in poor weather, will serve as the testbed for this new capability. The RSAF has extensive experience operating the type, making it a suitable platform for evaluating how UAS integration might improve mission outcomes.

The demonstration will aim to validate Airbus’ HTeaming system in a real-world setting. While the system’s hardware footprint is minimal, its intended impact of simplifying and streamlining human-drone coordination is potentially significant.

If successful, the test could inform future operational models for air forces looking to combine manned and unmanned assets without requiring major fleet overhauls or additional aircraft.

FMI: www.airbus.com