AW149
Type: Attack Helicopter
Domain: air
Country of Origin: Italy
Manufacturer: Leonardo Helicopters
First Deployed: 2026
Overview
Poland contracted for 32 AW149 medium twin-engine multirole helicopters in 2023 to replace aging Mi-8/17 Soviet-origin utility helicopters in Polish Army service. The AW149 is powered by two GE CT7-2E1 turboshaft engines (2,000 shp each), carries 18 troops or equivalent cargo, and achieves 290 km/h maximum speed with 800+ km range. The Western-standard avionics suite is NVG-compatible and NATO C2 interoperable. The aircraft will serve in troop transport, CASEVAC, and combat search-and-rescue roles. The transition from Russian-origin Mi-8/17 logistics to an Italian-Western support chain is a deliberate strategic choice as Poland decouples from Soviet-era equipment.
Technical Specifications
| crew | 2 + 18 troops |
|---|---|
| range | ~800 km |
| engines | 2x GE CT7-2E1 (2,000 shp each) |
| max_speed | 290 km/h |
Operators
- Poland
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