Italy’s Ministry of Defence has formally initiated steps to secure parliamentary authorization for the acquisition of 29 new AW249 Fenice (Phoenix) helicopters, marking a key milestone in the country’s combat aviation modernization. Valued at €1.22 billion ($1.41 billion), the procurement will complete a 48-aircraft fleet, gradually replacing the veteran Agusta A129 Mangusta helicopters that have served since the early 1990s. The AW249 program began in 2016 with the goal of providing the Italian Army with a next-generation attack helicopter optimized for multi-domain warfare. This third phase encompasses the acquisition of 29 aircraft in the Full Operational Capability configuration and the upgrade of 19 units already contracted under earlier phases. Spanning from 2026 to 2032, the program includes aircraft certification, production industrialization, a decade of logistical support, and a comprehensive training infrastructure for pilots and maintenance personnel. It underscores Italy’s commitment to strengthening national defense capabilities and supporting domestic industry through Leonardo’s continued leadership in rotorcraft design. The AW249, weighing approximately 8.3 tons, is a leap forward from its Mangusta predecessor. It can reach a top speed of 155 knots (287 km/h) and cover up to 430 nautical miles (796 km) on a single mission. Its expanded payload capacity — nearly 2,000 kilograms — allows for a diverse weapon mix including guided and unguided rockets, precision missiles, and a 20mm gimballed gun. Designed for versatility, the AW249 supports missions ranging from close air support and escort operations to reconnaissance and interdiction. It also integrates modern digital systems, including crewed-uncrewed teaming and air-launched effectors, which can be deployed remotely from the cockpit. These capabilities, combined with enhanced avionics and survivability features, position the AW249 Fenice as a cornerstone of Italy’s future army aviation fleet.
