Airbus H160 helicopter handed over to GDAT in its debut China delivery
The H160, a significant advancement in the realm of medium class helicopters, is setting new standards for safety, comfort, and versatility. This twin-engine utility helicopter, equipped with a fully composite airframe and a five-blade Blue Edge rotor system, has been making waves in the aviation industry.
Powered by two Safran Arrano 1A turboshaft engines, each generating around 1,280 shp, the H160 boasts a maximum takeoff weight of 6,050 kg, a cruise speed of 255 km/h, a maximum range of 880 km, and an endurance of approximately 4.5 hours. Key features include a canted fenestron tail rotor for improved lift and stability, electric landing gear and braking systems, and the advanced Helionix avionics suite with four multifunction displays and integrated automation.
The H160 caters to a variety of industries and applications, including offshore, medical, public service, private transport, and military use. In the energy sector, the H160 will primarily be used for offshore transportation for oil and gas platforms, wind farms, and harbour piloting. It will also be employed for emergency medical services and other municipal public service missions.
The militarized version, the H160M Guépard, is a heavier (around 6 tonnes) and faster variant, capable of top speeds near 330 km/h. It incorporates advanced avionics (Thales FlytX), new-generation sensors such as Safran’s Euroflir 410 electro-optical system and Thales’ AirMaster C radar, and a comprehensive self-protection suite covering electromagnetic and optical threats with automated countermeasures. The H160M supports the Airbus HForce modular weapon system, allowing integration of 12.7 mm machine gun pods, guided rockets, and 7.62 mm machine guns for door gunners or precision shooters. It is designed to operate in joint air, land, and naval missions and can cooperate natively with drones.
The H160 has already been delivered to countries outside of China, such as Brazil, Canada, France, Japan, Malaysia, Philippines, Saudi Arabia, U.K., U.S. and many other European countries. China received its first H160 as part of an order for 50 helicopters by GDAT in Shanghai, where it will be used for energy sector missions, offshore transport, emergency medical rescue, police, and maritime enforcement. Out of the fifty H160 helicopters originally ordered by GDAT in April 2023, five have been delivered.
Colin James, Managing Director of Airbus Helicopters in China, expressed excitement about the introduction of the H160 into the Chinese market. Peter JIANG, Chairman of GDAT, stated that the introduction of the H160 aircraft continues GDAT's commitment to providing state-of-the-art helicopter technology. The delivery of the H160 helicopter underlines GDAT's commitment to the safety, quality, and efficiency of their operations.
The H160 is one of the world's most technologically advanced helicopters, designed to deliver high operational safety and unmatched comfort for its class. It is a versatile helicopter that can be used for a variety of missions, making it a cutting-edge solution in its sector. The first H160 helicopter in China has been delivered to GDAT on August 12, 2025, marking a significant step for GDAT in providing advanced helicopter technology to both the Chinese market and the global market. The H160 helicopter delivery marks a significant step for GDAT in providing advanced helicopter technology to both the Chinese market and the global market.
Sources:
- Airbus H160
- Airbus H160M Guépard
- Airbus H160M Guépard Deliveries to French Armed Forces
- Airbus H160M Guépard Capabilities
- GDAT Orders 50 H160 Helicopters
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