Exclusive partnership announced

Safran Helicopter Engines and Hélicoptères Guimbal have announced an exclusive partnership to power the new GrandCabri G5 helicopter.

The aircraft will be equipped with the 450 shp Arrius 2D, a new variant of the Arrius engine family. The Arrius range is widely used in the light single and twin-engine helicopter market.

Engine features and integration

The Arrius 2D incorporates technologies from the Arrius family and is designed around a proven gas generator, providing a high level of maturity at entry into service.

The engine features dual-channel FADEC, which is intended to reduce pilot workload. It will offer a time between overhaul (TBO) of 3,000 hours at entry into service and is specifically integrated with the GrandCabri G5 platform.

Operators will also benefit from Safran Helicopter Engines’ global support network and service offering.

Aircraft positioning and programme intent

Hélicoptères Guimbal stated that the GrandCabri G5 is designed to bridge the gap between the Cabri G2 training helicopter and larger multi-mission single turbine helicopters.

The aircraft is intended to support both civilian and military missions.

Statements from programme partners

Bruno Guimbal, President and CEO of Hélicoptères Guimbal, said the engine selection aligns with the aircraft’s design objectives, particularly in terms of reliability and operational performance.

Cédric Goubet, CEO of Safran Helicopter Engines, stated that the partnership brings together a proven propulsion solution with a new turbine-powered helicopter, highlighting the maturity of the Arrius engine at entry into service.

Established engine family

The Arrius engine family has recorded more than 4,400 engines delivered to 430 customers in 60 countries, with over 14 million flight hours accumulated.

Covering a power range from 450 to 750 shp, the engine family is designed for the light helicopter market and is widely used in applications including emergency medical services, law enforcement, search and rescue, and military training.