New Italian Attack Helicopter

The Leonardo Helicopters AW249 Fenice (English: Phoenix) is an attack helicopter project under development by the Italian firm Leonardo. [1] Development of the AW249 formally started upon receipt of a €487 million contract from the Italian Army as a replacement for the Agusta A129 Mangusta. It is to be larger, more survivable, and have greater autonomy than the Mangusta, incorporating.

Italy's next-generation combat helicopter program, the AW249, is advancing steadily as the country prepares to enter the production phase. With 17 units already under contract out of the planned fleet of 48, the Italian Army is on track to receive the first deliveries by 2027. The development and testing of this modern attack helicopter mark a significant milestone in Italy's defense.

The Italian Army has increased to 17 the number of AW249 attack helicopters currently on order, out of a planned need for 48 helicopters. The AW249, designated AH-249A NEES (Nuovo Elicottero da Esplorazione e Scorta - New Exploration and Escort Helicopter) and nicknamed "Fenice" (Italian for "Phoenix"), is the only new. Summer Special Aviation News - The Leonardo AW249 Fenice is Italy's cutting-edge answer to modern battlefield demands.

Developed by Leonardo Helicopters, this next-generation attack helicopter replaces the aging Agusta A129 Mangusta, incorporating advanced technology, improved survivability, and multi-role flexibility. First unveiled in 2022, the AW249 is now undergoing final tests. The AW249, which resembles the Apache, is the Italian army's new attack helicopter, and has been developed from the ground up.

Italy is modernizing its armed forces by procuring a batch of new AW249 attack helicopters from Leonardo, aiming to replace its A129 fleet. With its ability to operate in complex combat scenarios, including asymmetric warfare and high-intensity engagements, the new attack helicopter is expected to play a vital role in future Italian and NATO missions. The new helicopter was created thanks to an "agile" process.

On 11 September 1993 the Agusta A129 Mangusta, the first Italian-made attack helicopter, made its maiden flight. Nearly 40 years later, on 12 August 2022, it was time for its successor, the Leonardo AW249 Fenice, as it will be named by the launch customer, to leave the tarmac of the Vergiate company facility for its maiden flight.