France's defense procurement agency, the Directorate General of Armament (DGA), has commissioned Airbus Helicopters to explore the addition and potential integration of missiles onto the H160M rotorcraft, which is under acquisition for the French Army, Navy, and Air and Space Force. The agency is investigating options for missile armament to enhance the helicopter's capabilities. Airbus Helicopters is conducting studies to determine feasible missile configurations and integration methods, considering the operational requirements of the French military branches. The initiative aims to bolster the versatility and effectiveness of the H160M in various mission profiles, including combat and surveillance.
Tony Osborne, reporting from Marseille, France, detailed that the French defense authority has tasked Airbus with studying the potential armed configuration for the helicopter. This development reflects broader efforts to modernize and multi-role enhance the French military's rotary-wing fleet. Although specific missile types are not disclosed, the program's objective is to evaluate the technical and logistical aspects of missile deployment on the H160M platform.
The H160M and France’s military modernization efforts
The H160M, a variant of Airbus's H160 family, is designed for military applications and is intended to serve various roles including troop transport, reconnaissance, and combat support. The study aligns with France's ongoing modernization initiatives, emphasizing increased attack and defense capabilities. The French military's interest suggests future integration possibilities that could include missile systems like the Akeron family, which are being developed for various French platforms. Airbus continues to collaborate with national defense agencies to adapt their rotorcraft for evolving security needs. The outcome of these studies could lead to a new armed version of the H160M, significantly enhancing its tactical versatility and operational deployment.
