PZL-Świdnik, the Polish firm entirely owned by Leonardo, has secured a contract from the Polish Ministry of Defence (MoD) valued at 8.25 billion PLN gross (approximately EUR 1.76 billion) for the provision of 32 AW149 versatile helicopters. This contract was unveiled today during a formal ceremony at PZL-Świdnik’s facility, attended by representatives from the Polish Government.
Moreover, the agreement encompasses logistics, training, and simulator packages. The logistics segment consists of a reserve of spare parts and consumables, as well as apparatus for the ground handling of the helicopters. The training and simulator component features complete training for pilots and technical staff, along with the provision of cutting-edge simulators and training apparatus. These new helicopters will undertake missions such as troop transport and aerial support. Their configuration will also facilitate casualty evacuation, search and rescue during combat operations, and the delivery of goods and supplies. The helicopters’ configuration, thoroughly aligning with the requirements of the Polish Armed Forces, will include, among others, observation systems, small firearms, guided/unguided missiles and rockets, and self-defense mechanisms. Depending on the variant and configuration, the armaments can be installed in the cabin or on the external hard points of the helicopter. Deliveries of the helicopters are scheduled for the 2023-2029 timeframe.
PZL-Świdnik will act as the primary contractor and establish a local production line for these innovative helicopters. Consequently, Leonardo will make additional investments in its Polish facility, building upon the nearly 1 billion EUR already invested since 2010, significantly enhancing the competitiveness and industrial capabilities of PZL-Świdnik. This contributes significantly to the Polish aerospace and defense sector, enabling domestic production, establishing a logistics base, and providing thorough technical support for the Polish MoD’s AW149s, in accordance with Leonardo and PZL-Świdnik’s commitment to delivering industrial benefits to Poland. The AW149, which is already operational with international users for various applications and under evaluation by numerous countries, is exceptionally suited to modernize defense helicopter fleets and replace various aging types within the medium-weight category.
The AW149 is a cutting-edge multirole military helicopter designed from inception to meet the rigorous demands of armed forces. The platform can be reconfigured to accomplish a wide range of complex tasks under the harshest operational conditions. With its advanced technology, weapons systems, and an impressive range/endurance, paired with high safety standards and survivability, the AW149 provides defense users with exceptional operational availability, mission effectiveness, and cost efficiency for their fleet.
Alessandro Profumo, CEO of Leonardo, remarked: “The contract signed today continues our commitment to Poland regarding Leonardo’s dedication to developing local helicopter facilities and the Polish supply chain, benefiting Polish industry. By reinforcing our presence in the strategically significant Polish market as a supplier of cutting-edge defense technology, we take pride in enhancing the security of the Polish nation and boosting the industrial capabilities that are vital for the country’s resilience and sovereignty.”
Gian Piero Cutillo, Managing Director of Leonardo Helicopters, commented: “The state-of-the-art AW149 helicopter signifies a considerable advancement in true multirole mission capabilities and growth potential, efficient fleet management, and emergency responsiveness for contemporary armed forces. The localization of industrial and logistical facilities for these new helicopters tailored to Poland’s needs will leverage the long-established and exceptional expertise of PZL-Świdnik, combined with the remarkable operational capabilities of the AW149, delivering unique advantages to the country.”
Jacek Libucha, President of PZL-Świdnik stated: “With comprehensive capabilities in helicopter design, development, customization, and maintenance, PZL-Świdnik reaffirms its leadership and continues its 70-year legacy by establishing key milestones in our aviation industry. As a former military officer experienced both at home and abroad, I am intimately familiar with PZL-Świdnik’s helicopters and their impressive capabilities. With my current industry role, serving the present and future generations of soldiers as a manufacturer brings me even greater fulfillment. I firmly believe that the AW149 will address the high-end requirements of the Armed Forces.
