Airbus delivers first H160 for the Gendarmerie Nationale

The first H160 helicopter for the French Gendarmerie Nationale was handed over to the French Defence Procurement Agency during a ceremony held at the Airbus Helicopters headquarters in Marignane. Ten H160s were ordered in December 2021 by the DGA on behalf of the Ministry of Interior. This delivery is part of the Gendarmerie Nationale’s helicopter fleet renewal programme, which began with the delivery of the first H145 in November. The two helicopters are complementary in terms of missions and capabilities. They also share numerous features, such as the Helionix avionics suite, communications systems and mission equipment, facilitating maintenance, training and operational interoperability.  

Bruno Even, CEO of Airbus Helicopters commented: “The delivery of the first H160 to the Gendarmerie Nationale is the result of a close cooperation with the Gendarmerie and the DGA, to develop a solution entirely dedicated to the most demanding security missions. This programme is a testament to our commitment to the future of French defence and security, notably with the ongoing development of the H160M Guépard, whose maiden flight took place last summer. The synergies established between these two programmes directly benefit the French forces, ensuring an unprecedented level of performance and interoperability for critical civil and military missions.” 

H160 is the largest rotorcraft ever operated by the Gendarmerie Nationale, providing additional mission capabilities. The delivery of the first helicopter will launch the standard acceptance process, operational integration and entry into service, which will last until early 2027. This step will also include the training and qualification of the crews and technical personnel, as well as the implementation of the helicopter’s operating procedures. 

The first helicopter of a new generation, the EASA-certified H160 benefits from reduced operating costs and optimised flight safety. With its streamlined maintenance plan, aligned between the engines and the rotorcraft, the H160 optimises operational costs and sets a new standard for availability. The Gendarmerie’s H160 will benefit from a global support contract managed by Airbus Helicopters, including technical support, spare parts stock on four of the Gendarmerie Nationale’s bases, as well as connected services.