PZL-Świdnik, the Polish company fully owned by Leonardo, has been awarded a contract by the Polish Ministry of Defence (MoD) worth 8.25 Bn PLN gross (approximately 1.76 Bn) for the supply of 32 AW149 multirole helicopters. The company announced the new in a press release.

In addition, the contract includes logistics, training and simulator packages. The logistics package covers a stock of spares and consumable parts, as well as equipment for the ground handling of the helicopters. The training and simulator package includes training of pilots and technical personnel. This is in addition to the delivery of a set of simulators and training equipment. The new helicopters are to carry out missions including troop transport and air support.

According to Leonardo, the equipment of the helicopters will also allow them to be used for casualty evacuation, search and rescue in combat operations, and for the transport of goods and supplies. The helicopters’ configuration will include observation systems, small arms, guided/unguided rockets and missiles and self-defence systems. Deliveries are scheduled between 2023 and 2029.

Acting as the prime contractor, PZL-Świdnik will host a local production line for these new helicopters.

JH