Leonardo’s new generation AW249 armed escort and exploration helicopter had its international premiere at the Eurosatory 2024 international defense and security exhibition (Paris, June 17-21) during an official ceremony attended by industry representatives, Italian Defense and international delegations.
Dubbed as «Fenice» by the Italian Army, the AW249 is the first and only Western combat helicopter of all-new design in more than 30 years, with digitization, connectivity, sensor fusion, information superiority and interoperability enabling a force multiplier in multi-domain operations.
Strength in integration
To handle a rapidly evolving scenario, the AW249 features a fully open software architecture with significant room for additional growth and system/capability customization to respond to demanding market requirements. In addition to its high performance over the AW129, of which it is an evolution (speed, range, power and payload margin, heat and altitude conditions, maneuverability for unmatched low-flying), the core of the AW249 is its ability to fully integrate and interoperate in the modern multi-domain battlefield (air, land, sea, space and cyberspace).
New generation avionics and data presentation
The AW249 features a state-of-the-art Battlefield Management System (BMS) that can process and combine vast amounts of data and transmit it to the crew in an intuitive and user-friendly manner through an advanced human-machine interface, with large displays and touchscreen/gesture recognition devices in the cockpit with tandem seating. The displays and state-of-the-art pilot helmet allow the crew to quickly access critical flight, navigation and mission information, thanks to multiple sensors and advanced connectivity. In addition, the helmet visor allows the crew to obtain a 3D view of the surrounding terrain, even in zero visibility conditions.
Advanced sensors
The AW249 has a number of sensors – LIDAR technology (uses laser beams to measure precise distances and movements in a real-time environment), IR sensors and microwave radar – that provide excellent situational awareness, essential for operating at low altitude and evading threats.
These instruments make it possible to scan and recreate terrain, obtain images of obstacles (such as power lines or poles) and fly in poor visibility conditions. If necessary, microwave radar can also be used to detect drones. Sensor fusion» – a combination of data from different sensors or sources that improves the accuracy of information – and a digital database ensure that the helicopter has an accurate understanding of the surrounding environment and can move nimbly around obstacles.
Artificial Intelligence
Combined with the helicopter’s computing and memory capabilities, the integration of Artificial Intelligence into the AW249 will allow the helicopter to calculate, correlate and update in real time parameters such as altitude, speed and the presence of obstacles, ensuring that the helicopter can identify the safest routes to follow.
Data obtained both from the helicopter’s own various sensors or from external sources such as drones and other battlefield assets, will be fused and presented in an organic and coherent way to the crew by the onboard AI, providing exceptional situational awareness.
Beyond predictive maintenance
The AW249 features predictive systems capable of optimizing maintenance activities, with the aim of reducing downtime and the logistical impact of technical shutdowns. The introduction of artificial intelligence will make it possible to move to prescriptive maintenance, evaluating multiple options based on simulations.
For example, in the case of worn components, prescriptive maintenance will make it possible to calculate the various possible failures or maintain the state of efficiency based on specific parameters and conditions, says Leonardo.
Lethal and survivable
To perform air escort, close air support, close combat strike and air interdiction missions, the AW249 is equipped with a flexible weapon system that includes 70 mm guided and unguided rockets, infrared-guided air-to-air missiles and air-to-ground missiles guided by radio frequency or fiber optics, in addition to a 20 mm 3-tube Gatling gun.
The survivability of Leonardo’s new helicopter is based on an advanced suite of integrated defensive aids (IDAS), along with armored seats and fuel tanks with ballistic tolerance, crashworthiness and low detectability, along with superior situational awareness through its navigation and sensor fusion capabilities.
Deliveries from 2027
With a maximum takeoff weight of 8.3 tons, the AW249 is being developed to replace the Italian Army’s AW129 fleet, which is nearing the end of its life cycle. A prototype of the AW249 made its maiden flight in the summer of 2022. Four prototypes have since been built, two of which are flying and undergoing performance, systems integration and payload testing, while two others are complete and will begin testing shortly. The production contract is expected shortly, with deliveries to the Italian Army starting in 2027. The AW249 is available for the export market thanks to its outstanding capabilities and modern design.
