The aircraft is our latest-generation battlefield platform, reconfigurable for a wide range of demanding missions in the most severe operational environments, and the ideal solution for the UK's New Medium Helicopter requirement.
The AW149 is primed to support ‘Global Britain’, following the publication of the government’s Integrated Review of Security, Defence, Development and Foreign Policy: The Defence Command Paper (DCP) and Defence and Security Industrial Strategy (DSIS).
Norman Bone, Chair and Managing Director of Leonardo UK, remarks, “The UK’s Defence & Security Industrial Strategy provides a clear vision on how the engineering excellence of the UK Defence industry will play a major role in securing the nation’s status as a science and tech superpower.
“Given Leonardo’s investment in high-end skills and world-leading intellectual property at our sites across the country, I’m delighted to see our company and the programmes our people are helping deliver, feature so prominently in the strategy. All of us at Leonardo are proud to play a strategic role in the security of our nation and to continue providing those who serve in the UK armed forces with the capability they deserve.”
Nick Whitney, Managing Director of Leonardo Helicopters (UK), explains: “Leonardo stands ready to support the UK Government with its intention to procure a New Medium Helicopter and develop future technologies, including uncrewed systems. As we continue to invest in these future battlespace capabilities, it is fantastic to see the vitality of the next generation of engineering innovators and inventors as they begin their careers on our award-winning apprenticeship and graduate schemes.”
AW149 RAF demonstrator
Helis, April 2021 - Leonardo UK Yeovil facility began conversion early this year of a company-own AW149 helicopter into a military demonstrator for the yet unannounced Royal Air Force competition to replace the Puma Mk2.
The demonstrator is based on the AW189K powered by the new Safran Aneto engines.
“Leonardo stands ready to support the UK Government with its intention to procure a New Medium Helicopter and develop future technologies, including uncrewed systems. As we continue to invest in these future battlespace capabilities, it is fantastic to see the vitality of the next generation of engineering innovators and inventors as they begin their careers on our award-winning apprenticeship and graduate schemes.” said Nick Whitney, Managing Director of Leonardo Helicopters (UK)
“The demonstrator aircraft is a company-owned asset being used to show AW149 battlefield capabilities and highlight specific characteristics related to the aircraft, including the possibility of choosing between a GE or Safran engine.” - Company Spokesperson
AW189K I-RAIU ( AgustaWestland UK )
See also |
AW149 NMH in
AgustaWestland UK 
