Leonardo proudly announces the delivery of the inaugural HH-139B twin-engine helicopter to the Italian Air Force, a customized version of the popular AW139 platform, from its Vergiate facility. This marks the first of 17 HH-139Bs, with all deliveries slated for completion by 2021. The addition of this helicopter is set to enhance the multirole capabilities of the Italian Air Force, crucial for emergency response and national security.
The HH-139Bs are designed to undertake diverse missions, including Search and Rescue (SAR), fire-fighting, and Slow Mover Intercept, complementing an existing fleet of 13 multirole HH-139As and four VH-139As, which are dedicated to government transport. The 7-tonne HH-139B variant comes equipped with advanced features, such as state-of-the-art electro-optics, a new radar system, an upgraded rescue hoist, and an innovative mission console. Enhanced avionics with the Phase 8 software release offer superior all-weather navigation and mission performance.
To maximize responsiveness and operational efficiency, the helicopters will be strategically stationed across multiple bases, allowing for quick reconfiguration from SAR to MEDEVAC or fire-fighting missions. The expansion of the HH-139 fleet will leverage unique logistical and operational synergies across various AW139 platforms utilized by government and public service entities in Italy, enabling effective joint operations. This development significantly boosts homeland security, disaster relief capabilities, and overall cost-effectiveness for the future. During the Covid-19 pandemic, AW139s played a vital role in providing specialized biocontainment transportation services across Italy.
The AW139 helicopter has garnered the trust of numerous Italian agencies, including Guardia di Finanza, State Police, Coast Guard, National Fire Corps, and Carabinieri, along with several emergency medical services. This latest program from the Italian Air Force raises the total number of AW139s procured by these governmental entities to nearly 80, addressing a broad spectrum of public utility roles, including law enforcement, homeland security, patrol, special operations, anti-terrorism, SAR, fire-fighting, command and control, government transport, disaster relief, and training.
Globally, a multitude of military and law enforcement organizations have chosen the AW139 to meet their operational needs. With over 280 orders from more than 70 countries, the AW139 stands as the most successful helicopter program of the past 15 years, with nearly 1,100 units in service, amassing over 2.9 million flight hours across various missions. The US Air Force is set to introduce the AW139-based Boeing MH-139 to replace its UH-1N fleet.
Leonardo is dedicated to serving communities worldwide by advancing sustainable growth through cutting-edge technologies. Collaborating with governments, private entities, and industries to enhance security and safety capabilities is essential to Leonardo’s Be Tomorrow 2030 Strategic Plan.
