Airbus Helicopters Expands H160 Production Capacity
Increased Production Goals
Airbus Helicopters is strategically enhancing the production capabilities of the H160 helicopter at its Marignane facility in Southern France. The aim is to scale output from the current rate of 35 to 40 units annually to approximately 60 units per year. This ramp-up is aligned with the impending delivery of the military variant, slated for deployment with the French Armed Forces in 2028.
Insights from the Production Facility
During a recent media engagement on October 14, Vincent Chenot, head of the H160M program, outlined the developments. He revealed that over 100 civil variants of the H160 have either been completed or are currently in production. To accommodate the increased workload, the assembly line is set for substantial expansion, enabling the production of both civil and military models.
- Current Status: The final assembly line (FAL) currently optimizes for a throughput of 35 to 40 helicopters.
- Expansion Plans: The facility will undergo modifications to support differentiated production lines for both civil and military variants, targeting an increase to 60 helicopters annually.
Innovative Production Techniques
The H160’s manufacturing employs a novel composite approach marked by region-specific production:
- Fuselage: Fabricated at the Donauwörth facility in Germany.
- Tailbooms: Produced in Spain.
- Avionics and Dynamic Components: Manufactured in various French locations, including Paris and Marignane.
Recent Developments and Flight Trials
Chenot’s remarks follow significant recent milestones, including the start of flight trials for the H160M Guépard (Cheetah) helicopter which began approximately three months ago. The inaugural flight of one of the three prototypes took place on July 24 at the Marignane site, signaling progress in the military adaptation of the H160 platform.
Strategic Implications
The expansion of the H160’s production capabilities is a salient development within European defense procurement, enhancing the operational readiness of the French military and potentially providing collaborative opportunities with allied nations. As Airbus Helicopters moves forward, the implications for regional defense initiatives and helicopter capability enhancements are profound.
