Japan’s FDMA Orders Its First Airbus H160 for Emergency Response | Aviation International News

Japan Orders Its First H160 for Emergency Response

Fire and disaster management agency to use aircraft in aerial reconnaissance role

Airbus H160 in flight over sea — The Airbus H160 received certification from the Japan Civil Aviation Bureau (JCAB) in May 2021. The country’s first example was delivered in December that year. © Airbus Helicopters

By Charlotte Bailey • News Reporter

September 3, 2026

Japan’s Fire and Disaster Management Agency (FDMA) has ordered an Airbus H160 to enhance its existing helicopter fleet. Stationed in Kumamoto Prefecture in the Kyushu region, located in the southwest of the country, the aircraft will be deployed across Japan to enhance nationwide emergency response. Four H160s are currently in service across Japan in a variety of roles.

According to Airbus, the new helicopter’s primary role will be “rapid aerial reconnaissance and real-time visual intelligence gathering during major natural disasters.” To assist with this task, the H160 will feature Helisat data-streaming technology to “completely bypass damaged ground infrastructure, providing emergency commanders with uninterrupted, real-time visibility straight from affected areas.” Airbus is also developing custom snow landing gear for the H160 to further enhance capabilities in Japan’s challenging winters.

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