France has officially taken delivery of its first Airbus H160 helicopter for the French National Gendarmerie, marking a key milestone in the country’s rotary-wing modernization efforts. The handover took place at Airbus Helicopters’ Marignane facility in southern France and represents the first aircraft from a 2021 order for 10 H160s.
As the largest helicopter to enter service with the National Gendarmerie, the H160 is expected to significantly enhance operational reach and mission flexibility. The arrival of the first aircraft initiates a formal acceptance and integration phase, including operational testing and gradual entry into service, a process scheduled to continue through early 2027.
This phase also includes comprehensive pilot and maintenance crew training, certification programs, and the establishment of standard operating procedures tailored to the new platform. To ensure long-term availability, the H160 fleet will be supported under a multi-year support agreement with Airbus Helicopters, covering technical assistance, digital services, and spare parts stockpiled across four operational bases.
The delivery is part of the National Gendarmerie’s broader helicopter fleet renewal program, which began earlier this year with the induction of the H145. Both platforms will operate in complementary roles and share common systems such as Helionix avionics, communications suites, and mission equipment, simplifying logistics, training, and joint operations.
Designed as a multi-mission helicopter, the H160 supports law enforcement, public service, and emergency response tasks. Powered by two Safran Arrano 1A engines, the aircraft can cruise at 255 km/h, operate up to 20,000 feet, and carry up to 12 passengers, offering enhanced performance, payload capacity, and next-generation technologies.
