• Contracts for five more AW139s add to the initial three-unit order, with two already delivered this year

• Italy aims to progressively replace their decades-old AB412 helicopters with modern AW139s for disaster relief, firefighting and airborne rescues

• 61 AW139s ordered by the Italian Government for public services to date; over 270 customers from around 70 nations have already ordered over 1100 AW139s

Leonardo announced new signed contracts for five additional AW139s to the Italian National Fire Corps (Vigili del Fuoco, part of Ministry of the Interior), including integrated logistic support and training for crews and technicians. The orders, valued at over €75 million, add to the previously purchased three units, with two already delivered this year. The five new helicopters are expected to be delivered in June 2020.

The Italian National Fire Corps intends to progressively replace the decades-old AB412s helicopters and to guarantee optimal coverage and increased responsiveness across the country. Indeed, the introduction of the AW139 marks a major enhancement of airborne multirole capabilities with the world’s most modern helicopter for maritime and mountain Search and Rescue (SAR), medical rescue, firefighting and disaster relief duties. The fleet modernization programme includes an option for seven additional helicopters which could be added to the eight already ordered.

Leonarda release