An AW159 Wildcat rotorcraft is featured at the World Defence Show 2024’s static exhibit. This model is being vigorously marketed for numerous global needs, with three units sold to an international client in 2023, contributing to the existing worldwide fleet of operators in the UK, the Republic of Korea, and the Philippines. The British Army and the UK’s Royal Navy have acquired 34 and 28 Wildcats, respectively. The ROK Navy has deployed 8 AW159s as part of the MOH batch 1 program, while the Philippine Navy has integrated two Wildcats into their armada. There are various opportunities worldwide, including the Middle East and Asia-Pacific, for the AW159.
Leonardo’s AW159 was crafted from the beginning to be versatile and maritime-ready through its modular equipment, which enhances its authentic multi-role potential. Featuring outstanding affordability, contemporary design, and adaptability, the platform is suitable for Anti-Submarine Warfare (ASW) and Anti-Surface Warfare (ASuW) missions globally. The AW159 can execute Intelligence, Surveillance, Target Acquisition and Reconnaissance (ISTAR), Maritime Interdiction, ASW, ASuW, and Search and Rescue (SAR) operations.
The network-integrated helicopter incorporates the latest communication, navigation systems, and sensors, boasting a diverse array of Air to Surface and Sub-Surface weaponry. The Tactical Processor and Human Machine Interface are engineered to provide the aircrew with the competitive advantage in today’s operational landscape. The compact AW159 is a fully marinized aircraft, optimized for operations from restricted space on vessels in turbulent sea conditions. Leonardo continues to invest in the AW159, enhancing the aircraft’s abilities.
AW159 Wildcat capabilities are also consistently advancing and adapting as new technologies emerge and customers evolve their operations; Crewed-Uncrewed Teaming and Performance-Based Navigation serve as key examples. As numerous operators aim to modernize and upgrade their existing fleets, Leonardo remains committed to collaboration, supporting and enhancing in-service fleets with a keen understanding of individual customers’ operational needs and budgets to provide cost-effective solutions that meet their mission objectives and requirements. The crewed-uncrewed model not only enhances Intelligence, Surveillance, Target Acquisition, and Reconnaissance (ISTAR) capabilities from airborne platforms, but also allows an operational commander to integrate persistent surveillance from an uncrewed system with a high-availability, high-readiness AW159, enabling immediate response to ship-borne alerts.
It is engineered to operate safely from the most compact ship decks – thanks to its minimal footprint – in the most challenging conditions of poor weather and high seas, while ensuring high readiness for immediate mission execution. For naval operations, this improvement further takes advantage of the AW159’s superb shipborne characteristics, including a Deck Lock (‘Harpoon’) system and negative thrust to ensure maximum safety during deck operations in sea states up to Sea State 6.
In addition to addressing multiple surface threats, the AW159 has also proven its capability to engage aerial targets during live-fire drills.
