Case IH is aiming to enhance automation, connectivity and operator comfort in its Axial-Flow 160 series combines for Model Year 2027 (MY27).

The American agricultural machinery company has said they designed the combine to "further simplify harvesting while increasing performance and connectivity".

"The new Axial-Flow 160 series combine reinforces Case IH’s commitment to productivity, reliability, and ease of use across all farm sizes," Case IH outlined.

Technological upgrades

These upgrades follow on from the 2024 launch of the Axial-Flow 160 series, when Case IH introduced its 'Harvest Command' combine automation technology.

This launch marked the first time the company brought its flagship automated threshing and separating technology down into Class 6 and Class 7 mid-sized combines.

Case IH's flagship machines (such as the Axial-Flow 250 Series) have had access to this technology since 2018.

According to the company, the latest updates further advance machine intelligence and digital capabilities.

The MY27 update introduces an upgraded on-and-offboard technology suite, which Case IH believes will enable "enhanced automation, connectivity and precision farming capabilities".

This is to "support faster decision-making and improved machine uptime," Case IH said.

"This upgrade supports faster data processing, improved diagnostics and seamless integration with digital tools, while enabling remote support capabilities that help reduce service trips and minimize downtime during harvest".

The updated Axial-Flow 160 series features a dual display setup of the company's Pro 1200 monitors which they the company said provides "an intuitive, tablet-like experience".

These displays feature customisable layouts and multi-touch controls while allowing for simultaneous machine and agronomic data visibility.

Additionally, the Pro 1200 monitors facilitate remote display viewing aimed at allowing operators and support teams to monitor and assist in real-time.

Case IH claims these dispays can also provide advanced diagnostics to help identify and address service needs earlier.

The company has also included Integrated Harvest Command combine automation technology, AccuGuide auto guidance, and real-time yield monitoring capabilities to these displays.

By separating machine control and agronomic data across two displays, the system "improves situational awareness and reduces operator workload during long harvesting days".

In terms of precision farming features, the updated Axial-Flow 160 series is to include the new Vector Pro receiver for "enhanced guidance accuracy, even in challenging field conditions".

The machines also have Connectivity Included, meaning Case IH provides connectivity for the lifetime of the modem with no subscription fees or renewals.

Additional technologies include AccuSync for real-time data sharing between multiple machines and AccuTurn for automated headland turning.

According to Case IH, its Flexible Technology Packages allow customers to tailor automation and connectivity levels to their needs.

Mechanical upgrades

According to Case IH it believes enhancements to core harvesting functions further increase efficiency and crop quality.

The company plans to introduce a new cross-auger clutch, enabling independent control of the unloading system, which is intended to allow the unloading auger to be fully emptied and reducing grain loss during unloading on the go.

An optional two-speed feeder drive optimises crop flow across varying conditions, while a new concave configuration improves performance in high-moisture crops.

Case IH have also claimed that enhanced sensor systems deliver more accurate monitoring of key machine parameters. 

"These improvements help ensure consistent throughput and reliable performance across changing field conditions," the company stated.

Operator comfort

Operator comfort "remains a key focus" for Case IH for MY27, something that long-time rivals John Deere have also reviewed and redesigned ahead of next year.

Case IH said that the Axial-Flow 160 series will deliver an upgraded operator environment aligned with the 260 series cab design and architecture.

Andreas Saile, EMEA product manager harvesting at Case IH said: “With the latest updates to the Axial-Flow 160 series, we are bringing advanced automation, connectivity and operator experience into the mid-range segment.

“These combines continue to embody the simplicity of Axial-Flow design while integrating the technologies needed to maximise productivity, crop quality and return on investment for today’s farmers," Saile concluded.

The MY27 editions will make their first public appearance at a major international exhibition at EIMA in Bologna in November 2026.

Series production is set to begin in July, enabling first deliveries to customers by the end of the third quarter.