Italy reveals AW129 replacement
Replacement of the Italian Army’s AW129 with a new exploration and escort (NEES) helicopter has come to light, further to a joint contract between Leonardo Helicopters and the Italian government.
The deal covers the study, development, industrialisation, production and testing of a new helicopter prototype and three initial production aircraft.
The army currently operates 50 AW129 attack helicopters, while the new contract states that the programme will be for 48 aircraft. The AW129 is expected to retire in 2025.
The deal was part of a €500 million contract that included an initial batch of five M-345 trainer aircraft.
The new helicopers would address
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