First On-Time Delivery and Option for 18 More Authorise
The Austrian MoD’s AW169M Light Utility Helicopter (LUH) programme reached a major milestone on 21 December with on-time delivery of the first aircraft. The example is the first of the 18 aircraft ordered under the binational government-to-government agreement concluded at the end of 2021.
The nations announced an amendment to the agreement, under which Austria is exercising options for an additional 18 helicopters. The agreement reinforces relations between Austria and Italy, establishing a partnership in the helicopter arena as Austria seeks to replace its aging Alouette III fleet, in service since the 1960s. Handover of the first AW169M provides new capabilities for Austrian national defence and emergency response forces.
Austrian crews have already attended initial training at Leonardo’s Training Academy in Sesto Calende, and will be supported by the Italian Army’s training capabilities as an AW169M LUH operator. The aircraft is the most technologically advanced and cost-effective solution to meet rigorous operator needs, and will be able to conduct a wide range of missions such as troop transport, combat operations, disaster relief and emergency response, fire-fighting, mountain rescue and MEDEVAC. “We welcome the decision to further expand the fleet. We look forward to providing an even greater contribution with the most technologically advanced and cost-effective solution to meet the stringent requirements set by the collaboration between the two governments. We’re committed to sustaining this important and growing programme,” commented Leonardo CEO, Alessandro Profumo.
Gian Piero Cutillo, Managing Director of Leonardo Helicopters, added “The development of this programme and the handover of the first aircraft in line with the delivery schedule is the result of an amazing collaboration among all the involved parties. We know the outstanding technology, performance, multirole capabilities and complete services of the type will significantly boost national defence and emergency response, even more with today’s decision to rely on an even larger fleet in the future”.
