Polish Military Receives the First AW149 Helicopter Manufactured in the Country

The Polish Army has started to receive AW149 helicopters, which are directly manufactured in Poland.

Defence24 reported that the first helicopter was demonstrated at the 7th Aviation Squadron of the 25th Aviation Cavalry Brigade in Nowy Glińnik.

The first Polish-made AW149 is the eleventh helicopter delivered under the contract.

Production is performed at the PZL Świdnik plant. Thanks to the new production line, 21 more AW149 helicopters are planned to be built in Świdnik by 2029.

The production of AW149 helicopters in Poland began after signing a contract with the Italian defense company Leonardo, which is their manufacturer. AgustaWestland developed the model.

The aircraft manufacturing company PZL Świdnik became part of the Italian holding in 2010. This allowed Italian manufacturers to enter the Polish market with their aircraft.

In total, Poland is to receive 32 AW149 helicopters to replace the Mi-2 and W-3 Sokół.

AW149 helicopters in the configuration for the Polish military are equipped with surveillance systems, small arms, guided and unguided missiles. Depending on the application, the weapons are mounted in the cockpit or on external mounts.

The AW149 combines high performance, low operating costs and the ability to operate day and night in all weather conditions.

Declared characteristics:

• maximum takeoff weight – 8300 kg (can be increased to 8600 kg);
• maximum speed – 313 km/h, cruising speed – 287 km/h;
• maximum range – 958 km, flight duration – up to 4 hours 55 minutes;

The AW149 can carry up to 19 passengers. The crew is 2 people, but one pilot can perfom the main tasks.

The large cockpit can accommodate a wide range of equipment and weapon systems to increase operational efficiency and combat survivability.