Leonardo, an international frontrunner in aerospace, defense, and security, has demonstrated a robust dedication to Poland through strategic alliances and investments to enhance the nation’s defense capabilities, further validated with the latest significant achievement realized today. Today PZL-Świdnik, the Polish enterprise fully owned by Leonardo, commemorated the inauguration of the production line for the AW149 helicopters intended for the Polish Armed Forces and the initiation of new localized manufacturing operations, fulfilling its pledge to the new helicopter program.
The company’s commitment to technology transfer and domestic production has fostered development in the country’s skillset, enabling the rapid delivery of cutting-edge technologies to clients, ensuring the Polish Armed Forces are well-equipped to tackle challenges in the operational environment with the state-of-the-art multirole AW149 military helicopter.
The formal inauguration ceremony was graced by representatives and dignitaries from national and local institutions, Leonardo, PZL- Świdnik, and collaborative partners. This milestone signifies a new technological chapter for both PZL-Świdnik facilities along with the national supply chain and military services.
Being a part of Leonardo, PZL-Świdnik capitalizes on unique industrial strengths in terms of delivery speed and adaptability to meet stringent deadlines and urgent needs amidst the geopolitical landscape. The initial AW149 units were manufactured in Vergiate (Italy), where Polish employees underwent on-the-job training and ensured timely deliveries within a tight timeframe, handing over helicopters just 15 months post-contract signing. The majority of the Polish Armed Forces’ AW149s will be fabricated in Poland.
The Polish Ministry of Defense’s AW149 initiative is predicated on localized production through PZL-Świdnik, which is a strategic choice by Poland to guarantee both national security and significant industrial benefits. The contract for 32 AW149s was concluded in Świdnik in 2022 and encompasses the integration of the helicopter’s systems, specialized armament, future enhancements, and technical support throughout the entire lifespan of the Polish AW149 fleet. Thanks to domestic production, Poland establishes a local logistics foundation and technical facilities positioned near the Polish Land Forces, supplemented by advanced helicopters.
Gian Piero Cutillo, Managing Director of Leonardo Helicopters, remarked: “PZL-Świdnik exemplifies the highest standards of excellence within our organization, achieving commendable outcomes in all sectors and holding immense potential for further growth. Correspondingly, there is an increasing expectation for our establishment in Świdnik to transition from a manufacturer to a pivotal market competitor capable of managing complex contracts and deliveries. The Polish Ministry of Defense’s AW149 program is a clear illustration of this evolution today.
“The localization of industrial and logistical capabilities for these new helicopters to address Poland’s requirements harnesses the long-standing and distinctive expertise of PZL-Świdnik and its skilled workforce, paired with the exceptional operational capabilities of the AW149s, will provide unmatched advantages to the nation.”
Jacek Libucha, President of PZL-Świdnik, expressed: “The previous year represented a phase of multi-million investments, covering infrastructure, technology, and facilities, specifically in the building now hosting full production of the AW149. Along with the fabrication of the AW149, we are commencing a new era for the Świdnik facilities – this was evident to me from the outset when I was appointed CEO of PZL-Świdnik – we required a new advanced helicopter production line to cultivate our expertise, which must come with cutting-edge technology transfer. This also aligns with the Armed Forces’ demanding requirements, and those helicopters will furnish them with premier combat support. This is precisely what the platform has been designed to achieve.”
The new production line acts as a catalyst for transformation, similar to when PZL-Świdnik became a center of excellence for helicopter aerostructures, contributing to the inception of the AW139 program several years ago. Now, just over a decade later, revenues at PZL-Świdnik have increased more than fourfold, yielding heightened export sales and an expanding technological and product portfolio. The Świdnik-based enterprise has significantly expanded over the year by securing new contracts and utilizing technological and capability investments promised by Leonardo to solidify its position in the competitive landscape.
In Poland, PZL-Świdnik boasts a workforce of 3,240 employees (20% of whom are engineers) dedicated to serving its clients, while the Polish Military is recognized as a strategic partner. PZL-Świdnik employs a driven team, with engineers constituting 20%, while a growing number of young talent and top-tier test pilots (level-1) cater to the current and future demands of the Polish Army and other clients. These pilots showcased a dynamic demonstration of the AW149 during today’s ceremony.
