Leonardo has declared today the agreement for a contract with Italy’s Carabinieri for the provision of 20 AW119Kx single-engine helicopters intended for its Air Service. The aircraft will be constructed at Leonardo’s Vergiate facility (Varese), with anticipated deliveries projected between 2023 and 2026. This agreement also encompasses an extensive turnkey logistics support package along with training services for both pilots and maintenance specialists.
The arrival of these helicopters will enable the Carabinieri to fulfill its fleet modernization objectives to further fortify and enhance the safety of national communities. This will be achievable by executing a variety of patrol and reconnaissance missions over land, identifying crucial targets, collecting investigative evidence, and assisting ground units in their operations. Additional duties will also include environmental surveillance and protection, and, if requested by the National Disaster Relief Authority, firefighting alongside rescue operations.
The AW119Kxs incorporate digital technology, which boosts operational efficiency and reduces operating expenses. The helicopters will operate from existing service locations, which comprise 18 bases nationwide. Their equipment ensures complete interoperability with other Carabinieri assets as well as seamless cooperation with those from other military branches and governmental organizations, both domestically and internationally.
Gian Piero Cutillo, MD of Leonardo Helicopters, stated: “The integration of the AW119Kx into the Carabinieri Air Service’s fleet perfectly complements the capabilities the operator has already selected, made possible through the AW139s and AW169s. The helicopters cater to the broad spectrum of the Air Service’s demands considering their national responsibilities and an evolving, increasingly intricate operational environment. We take pride in continuing to assist the Carabinieri with advanced capabilities that can address emerging security challenges and contribute to the well-being of national communities.”
The unique characteristics of the AW119Kx, alongside its certification and military regulations, enable the operator to carry out missions over urban areas efficiently and securely, thanks to the model’s qualities such as system redundancies, power margins, exceptional exterior visibility, advanced digital navigation, and mission avionics. The latter features a Garmin G1000H cockpit with expansive color displays, synthetic vision, HTAWS, satellite navigation/moving map capabilities. The AW119Kx offers a roomy cabin and cargo area, along with a high main rotor clearance that enhances personnel safety. Carabinieri’s AW119Kxs will include, among other features, HD EO, a cargo hook, mission console with data link, a hyperspectral system for environmental monitoring, radios, a wire cutter, search lights, and a Bambi Bucket. Provisions for a flotation system, life raft, and snow kit are also integrated.
The exceptionally versatile AW119Kx is equipped with both VFR and IFR avionics depending on customer preferences. This enhances situational awareness, mission efficiency, and safety. The AW119Kx boasts unparalleled performance with a significant power margin, offering the most spacious cabin within its class, accommodating up to six passengers based on configuration. Over 490 AW119s have been sold thus far.
