Set up on May 2, 1994, the Helicopter Assault Group, formerly denominated Amphibious Warfare Team (NLA - Nucleo Lotta Anfibia), provides the Italian Navy with a shipborne flight component, tailored to the Italian Navy specific requirements, which is primarily focused on the support to the San Marco Brigade Landing Force. The assault helicopter is fitted with Night-Vision Goggles (NVGs), a Passive Integrated Self-Protection System (SIAP- Sistema Integrato di Autoprotezione Passiva), providing armored seats for pilots, as well as Chaffs and IR Flares countermeasures. Armament includes two 12.7mm HMPs (Heavy Machine-gun Pods), two 42/59 MG pivoting machine guns, two 19/70 HL multiple rocket launchers. This helicopter can transport up to 5 Elite Forces personnel.