The Joint Light Helicopter (hélicoptère interarmées léger – HIL) programme was approved by the French state to meet two objectives: to replace the five fleets of helicopters that are in service in all three branches of the French armed forces; and to implement overall improvements to maintaining the fleet in operational condition (maintien en condition opérationnelle – MCO). The H160M’s modularity and versatility allow it to cover the entire mission spectrum assigned to the HIL.
A true multi-role aircraft
Weaponised and furnished for light attack operations, the H160M can quickly be reconfigured to perform missions ranging from commando infiltration to air intercept, fire support, and anti-ship warfare; up to two stretchers for search and rescue operations; as well as a fast rope system, cargo hook, and hoist that can equally be used for parapublic missions—a versatile, all-in-one asset for modern militaries.
A modern platform
The first of a new generation of helicopter, the H160M derives from the EASA-certified H160. It benefits from a low cost of operations and optimised flight safety. The H160M incorporates the latest technological achievements in French aeronautics.
To ensure a high level of availability while reducing operating costs, the H160M’s support and services needs were taken into account from early in its design phase. Innovative and simplified, the H160M’s support is based on the exploitation of data through analytics.
In addition, the H160M can be integrated into a secured digital support environment.
Introducing the HIL H160M for the French Armed Forces
H160M HIL (Hélicoptère Interarmées Léger)
HIL H160M in focus
Discover more
Related news
Defence
European premiere: Airbus-led large-scale flight demo teams up fighters, a helicopter and drones
In Europe’s first large-scale multi-domain flight demo led by Airbus, two fighter jets, one helicopter and five unmanned remote carriers teamed up and accomplished a mission that could occur in real-life situations. The Future Combat Air System (FCAS) Manned-Unmanned Teaming Demonstrator project will now move to the next phase: further paving the way for FCAS by developing a flying remote carrier (RC) demonstrator in the coming years.
Helicopters
Maverick and Commander: female aviation in the US Coast Guard
The US Coast Guard Air Station in North Bend, Oregon is the first with an all-female command structure.
Helicopters
Finnish NH90 proves its worth during international military joint exercises
The stakes were high this summer for the Finnish armed forces and their NH90s when
the British Army and the U.S. Navy and Army air and ground assets showed up to
perform the biggest helicopter test operation ever to take place in Finland.
the British Army and the U.S. Navy and Army air and ground assets showed up to
perform the biggest helicopter test operation ever to take place in Finland.