Overview

• The first fully military H160M Guépard prototype completed its maiden flight on July 24 in Marignane, initiating official flight trials.
• Built on the civil H160 platform, the Guépard offers a 50% noise reduction and leverages existing supply chains to simplify logistics and cut operating costs.
• It is the first Airbus helicopter with an integrated drone cooperation system designed to meet modern combat demands.
• Airbus will equip the Guépard with 12.7 mm machine guns, guided rocket launchers and next-generation sensors including Thales’ AirMaster C radar and Safran’s Euroflir 410.
• Following a 2021 order for 169 units, France’s three armed forces will begin receiving 30 helicopters from 2028 as Airbus targets half of the global medium-class market.