AW249 Attack Helicopter

The AW249 is a next-generation advanced technology attack helicopter developed by the Italian defense industry company Leonardo. Designed to meet the multi-mission demands of modern combat environments it stands out with high speed extended range increased payload capacity and enhanced survivability features. Thanks to its full integration capability with digital battle networks the AW249 can conduct joint operations with both manned and unmanned aerial vehicles.

The AW249 was developed to replace the A129 Mangusta attack helicopters that have been in service with the Italian Army since the 1990s. A total of four units have been produced including one prototype and three pre-production models which are used for testing and integration activities. The Italian Ministry of Defense has ordered 17 units for the first production series with a total procurement program planned for 48 helicopters. First deliveries are expected to begin in 2027.

The AW249 has been designed in full compliance with the strictest safety and performance standards established by the European Defence Agency (EDA) NATO and the European Union Aviation Safety Agency (EASA). This design ensures low maintenance and operational costs. Thanks to full integration with advanced digital battle management systems the AW249 is capable of conducting operations in all weather conditions both day and night.

The cockpit is designed according to ergonomic principles and equipped with next-generation avionics systems. This suite aims to reduce the pilot’s workload during missions and enhance mission effectiveness. The helicopter features two 21.5-inch wide touchscreen displays and four advanced control units enabling efficient and integrated management of flight and combat systems.

^{AW249 Cockpit - (}Leonardo⁾

• Two wide touchscreen displays (21.5”)
• Four advanced control units (8.4”)
• Precision targeting and flight sensors
• LTE data transmission network
• Software-defined radio systems (SDR)
• Wide-band line-of-sight (LOS) data link
• NATO Tactical Data Link 16
• Next-generation IFF system
• Multi-sensor flight management system
• Performance-based navigation capability
• External auxiliary fuel tanks

• Guided and unguided 70 mm rockets
• Air-to-air infrared-guided missiles
• Air-to-ground radio frequency or fiber-optic guided missiles
• 20 mm three-barrel cannon with integrated helmet-mounted sight system

The AW249 is designed for multi-role operations and can effectively perform the following missions:

• ISTAR (Intelligence Surveillance Target Acquisition and Reconnaissance)
• Air Escort
• Close Air Support
• Air Attack and Interdiction
• Network-Enabled Operations

The AW249 functions as an information-gathering node within its C4 system. It scans the operational area using its own sensors or those of cooperating platforms to detect ground elements both friendly and hostile. The collected data is securely transmitted to the Command and Control Center.

Thanks to its powerful sensors and precise weapon systems the AW249 can detect deter and neutralize enemy threats.

Protecting convoys and identifying and eliminating enemy elements before combat engagement begins.

Leveraging superior flight performance and real-time tactical awareness the AW249 can engage enemy aircraft and strike strategic targets and infrastructure to restrict enemy mobility.

C4 is an acronym used in military terminology for Command Control Communications and Computers. This structure enables effective command and control of forces real-time communication and data sharing through computer-based systems on the battlefield. C4 systems are critical in modern operational environments for enabling instantaneous information exchange and uninterrupted command and control chains across diverse platforms including ground air naval and unmanned systems.

The helicopter provides enhanced low-altitude environmental awareness through systems such as LIDAR infrared sensors and microwave radars. Data collected from these sensors is processed using sensor fusion techniques to deliver the pilot with the most up-to-date situational awareness.

In particular microwave radars enable detection of obstacles and UAVs while AI-supported systems enhance mission continuity through predictive maintenance infrastructure that anticipates potential failures. The system calculates parameters in real time to determine the safest flight routes.

The AW249 is capable of manned-unmanned teaming (MUM-T) operations. This capability allows it to operate alongside unmanned systems thereby significantly enhancing reconnaissance and intelligence gathering capacity and elevating mission effectiveness.

The helicopter provides protection through armored pilot seats ballistic-resistant windows and rotor systems. It is equipped with self-sealing fuel tanks supported by an intelligent fuel transfer system crashworthy fuel systems and energy-absorbing structural elements. It is also fitted with anti-jamming systems a special low-radar-signature paint coating and automated electronic warfare systems.

^{AW249 in Test Flight - (}Leonardo⁾