French Navy Advances Helicopter Development With Warship Interaction
The French Navy has announced a significant milestone in the development of the H160M Guépard helicopter, with the prototype conducting its first integration sequence with a frontline surface ship. On January 16, 2026, the helicopter flew in an armed configuration close to the fleet replenishment tanker BRF Jacques Stosskopf, testing its sensors in the ship’s electromagnetic environment. This event marks a crucial step in the Guépard’s development campaign, which is being conducted with the DGA and Airbus Helicopters. The H160M Guépard program aims to provide a common platform for the French Armed Forces, with deliveries expected to begin in late 2028, as reported by AeroTime.