The Italian Army has already placed an order for 10 additional Leonardo AW249 Fenice attack helicopters, bringing the total number of acquired units to 17. This marks the initial steps toward an expected fleet of 48 helicopters. The first prototype, along with three pre-production units, is currently undergoing extensive testing by both the manufacturer and military personnel.
Regarding Italy’s acquisition process for this new platform, the first three pre-production helicopters were ordered in 2017, scheduled for delivery in an Initial Operational Capability (IOC) configuration to participate in testing before being upgraded to meet the Italian Army’s final requirements. In 2021, four more helicopters were added to the order, this time configured according to the Final Operational Capability (FOC) standard.
According to government documents, an additional 10 helicopters were ordered in 2024, with an option for two more. This is part of a €735 million contract aimed at replacing the aging AW129D Mangusta helicopters, which have been in service since the 1990s. The contract also includes a performance-based logistical support package covering approximately 200 flight hours per year.
Ahead of their formal introduction, the AW249 Fenice helicopters have already participated in key military exercises. Notably, they took part in the Stella Alpina 2024 training exercise in the Trento region, integrating with a force of over 600 personnel in a multi-domain scenario. The helicopters were also tested in southern Italy’s Calabria region under high-altitude and hot weather conditions, with similar trials conducted in Spain in 2023.
Additionally, the future Italian attack helicopters have already tested some of their combat capabilities, including live-fire exercises using 70 mm unguided rockets and the Oto Melara TM197B 20 mm cannon. Before their scheduled delivery in 2027, further testing will involve the integration of Israeli Rafael Spike and Spike ER missiles for ground targets, as well as an undisclosed air-to-air missile system.
Regarding technical specifications, the AW249 is powered by two GE Aviation CT7-8E6 engines, each providing 2,500 horsepower, allowing it to reach speeds of up to 287 km/h. The helicopter has a maximum range of 796 kilometers and features a maximum takeoff weight nearly double that of its predecessor, estimated between 7,500 and 8,000 kilograms. Other improvements include increased fuel capacity, enhanced armor protection, and advanced electronic countermeasures to reduce detectability and improve survivability.
Images used for illustration purposes only.
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