As part of Italy’s army rotor wing modernization program, Leonardo has provided the first consignment of AW249 Fenice (Phoenix) attack helicopters. The project, which was unveiled in 2017, would build up to 48 aircraft to take the place of the service’s Agusta A129 Mangusta (Mongoose) helicopters, which have been in use since the 1990s. Beginning in 2027, Leonardo will provide the first tranche, which will include 17 platforms.
