French Gendarmerie adds TrakkaBeam A800 to new H160 helicopters

The French Gendarmerie Nationale has integrated the TrakkaBeam A800 searchlight on its newly acquired Airbus H160 helicopters, continuing a partnership with Trakka Systems that spans more than 15 years. The H160 addition marks the largest helicopter ever operated by the Gendarmerie, expanding its aerial mission capabilities.

The TrakkaBeam A800 is a high-intensity searchlight designed for use on both fixed- and rotary-wing platforms. It can slew at up to 60° per second in both elevation and azimuth and is compatible with new or existing searchlight mounts. The system features a multispectral filter wheel that allows operators to select from up to six filters for conditions such as fog, snow, or low-visibility scenarios, as well as covert illumination needs.

According to Trakka Systems, the A800’s xenon lamp and optical design produce a consistent, intense beam, while the embedded filter system improves scene visibility and operational effectiveness. The searchlight has been widely deployed across law enforcement, search and rescue (SAR), firefighting, and military missions.

The integration of the A800 on the H160 provides the Gendarmerie with a versatile, tactical illumination tool as it expands its aerial operations with the larger, more capable helicopter platform.