In 2018 was announced a partnership between Polish’ PGZ and Leonardo for a new attack helicopter designed to meet the Polish Army’s requirement to replace the aging Mi-24. Poland finally selected the AH-64E Apache.
Leonardo continued with its NEES (Nuovo Elicottero da Esplorazione e Scorta, New Exploration and Escort Helicopter) program as a replacement for the A129 Mangusta in the Italian Army. The Fenice (Phoenix) is planned to enter service by 2025.
The AW249 first flew on August 12, 2022 at Leonardo plant in Vergiate, Italy.
Second prototype flew March 19, 2023.
The AW249 made its international debut at Eurosatory 2024. Deliveries expected to begin in 2027
Leonardo continued with its NEES (Nuovo Elicottero da Esplorazione e Scorta, New Exploration and Escort Helicopter) program as a replacement for the A129 Mangusta in the Italian Army. The Fenice (Phoenix) is planned to enter service by 2025.
The AW249 first flew on August 12, 2022 at Leonardo plant in Vergiate, Italy.
Second prototype flew March 19, 2023.
The AW249 made its international debut at Eurosatory 2024. Deliveries expected to begin in 2027
AW249 News |
Leonardo Unveiled AW249 at Eurosatory 2024
19-Jun-24 - The Italian Army’s New Exploration and Escort helicopter Leonardo AW249 Fenice made its international premiere at Eurosatory 2024. The production contract is expected soon, with deliveries to begin in 2027 #AW249
PZL-Świdnik AW249
18-Feb-21 - PZL-Świdnik, polish biggest helicopter factory and part of Leonardo, is ready to launch production line of new aircraft for the Polish Army including the new AW249 gunship #AW249
Leonardo and PGZ Sign LoI for AW249
11-Jul-18 - Poland’ PGZ and Leonardo sign letter of intent (LoI) for a new combat helicopter designed to meet the Polish Army’s requirement and eventually as Mangusta replacement in the Italian Army #aircraft Specifications AW249 |
List of Operators of AW249 |
Global Distribution of AW249 |
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Construction Numbers |
| C/N | Built as | Year | History | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 24000 | 2022 |  CSX82069 | ||
| 24001 | 2023 | CSX82097 | ||
