Airbus Helicopters has commenced flight testing of the H160M Guépard, a militarised derivative of the H160, under the French Armed Forces’ Joint Light Helicopter programme. The maiden flight, conducted by pilot Samuel Chartier and three flight test engineers, was marked by a ceremony at Airbus Helicopters’ French headquarters.
The French Ministry of Armed Forces has selected the H160M as a single, standardised platform for its Army, Navy and Air and Space Force, replacing five existing or recently retired helicopter types. A total of 169 aircraft are planned, reflecting France’s intent to streamline operations and reduce maintenance complexity.
The H160M, benefiting from three years of operational experience with its civil counterpart, is being developed using three prototypes to accelerate testing. The first prototype will validate flight performance and conduct live firing trials in 2026, while the second will focus on environmental testing in extreme conditions.
Airbus CEO Bruno Even cited positive feedback from the French Navy’s civil H160 fleet, which has demonstrated high availability on demanding search and rescue missions. He described the H160M as a reliable, agile, connected and highly adaptable platform designed for future combat scenarios.
Technological highlights include Safran Arrano engines, 68 patented efficiency and safety innovations, Thales FlytX avionics and Airbus’ advanced mission systems. The aircraft offers full integration with joint operations, next‑generation sensors, a drone cooperation system and self‑protection across electromagnetic and optical spectrums. Its armament options include 12.7 mm gun pods, guided rockets and 7.62 mm cabin-mounted weapons.
Deliveries to the French Armed Forces are expected from late 2028, with Airbus committed to providing maintenance and operational support for at least the first decade of service.
