Rotorcraft
French Navy Receives First Airbus H160 for SAR Duties
Six civilian-standard helicopters are being taken into service by the Marine Nationale in advance of the first deliveries of militarized H160Ms.
A winch-equipped H160 hovers over a French lifeboat during SAR trials. The Safarn Arrano-powered helicopter is equipped with night vision goggle capability for night-time winching. (Photo: Anthony Pecchi/Airbus Helicopters)
A winch-equipped H160 hovers over a French lifeboat during SAR trials. The Safarn Arrano-powered helicopter is equipped with night vision goggle capability for night-time winching. (Photo: Anthony Pecchi/Airbus Helicopters)

A partnership between Airbus Helicopters, Safran Helicopter Engines, and Babcock has delivered the first of six Airbus H160s to the Marine Nationale (French navy). They will be used for search and rescue (SAR) duties at locations around the French coast, allowing NH90s and Panthers to concentrate on their primary shipborne missions.