Japan Orders Its First H160 for Emergency Response

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.

Although the acquisition marks the first time FDMA has opted for the H160, the agency has been operating Airbus Helicopters models since 2001, when it introduced the AS365N3 for disaster management missions. Airbus said the introduction of the H160 will offer “superior range, safety, and operational capabilities.”