The Italian Army officially started the acquisition of the first batch of attack helicopters AW249 Phoenixa next-generation platform intended to replace the outdated AW129 Mongoosein service for over thirty years. This first group of aircraft is part of an initiative to produce up to 48 unitsdeveloped by the Leonardo Agustawith the aim of modernising the Italian Army's assault fleet. The AW249 Fenice was first presented in the 2017 and its initial phase involves 17 exemplarswhose delivery will start in 2027.
AW249 Phoenix: the next-generation combat helicopter
The AW249 is a state-of-the-art assault helicopter designed to operate in modern, ever-changing warfare scenarios. It is the only helicopter currently in the design phase that combines state-of-the-art technology, high performance and high survivability, while maintaining low operating costs. Designed to meet new tactical requirements and to integrate with other platforms, the AW249 can operate in synergy with air and ground assets, including unmanned aerial systems (UAS).
This helicopter combines advanced communication technologies, a sophisticated battlefield management system and an evolutionary capability that will allow it to integrate future equipment and weaponry. Advanced avionics and mission systems improve operational awareness, reducing pilot workload and increasing safety during operations.
Protection and survival in combat
The AW249 is equipped with an advanced integrated self-defence system designed to ensure high survivability in the most demanding theatres of operation. Its protective features include a reinforced transmission capable of continuing to operate for 50 minutes even in the absence of lubricant, armoured seats to ensure crew protection, ballistic-tolerant fuel tanks capable of withstanding direct impacts, and a reinforced structure designed to absorb high impacts and reduce detectability to enemy radar.
With a maximum take-off weight of 8.3 tonnes, the AW249 is capable of operating drones and unmanned aircraftensuring high speed, autonomy and versatility. Its capabilities make it ideal for armed escort missions, close air support, air interdiction, reconnaissance, surveillance and target acquisition. Thanks to its powerful engines, it is capable of operating in extreme weather conditions and conducting naval missions, with built-in capabilities to operate as a naval unit right from the design stage.
Performance and operational capabilities
The AW249 Phoenix has been developed to guarantee a high level of performance. It has a length of 18 metres, a wingspan of 15 metres, a two-seat cockpit and a maximum payload of about 1,800 kg. It is powered by two General Electric CT7-8E6 turboshafts, each with 2,500 horsepower, and is capable of reaching a maximum speed of 155 knots (287 km/h - 178 mph) with a range of up to 430 nautical miles (796 km - 495 miles).
It can operate up to an altitude of 6,096 metres (20,000 feet) with a maximum operational duration of around four hours. The AW249 Phoenix is a natural evolution of the AW149 model, which in turn is derived from the AW129 Mangusta. One of the most significant upgrades concerns the range, which has been increased to three hours to allow coordinated operations with the Italian Army's NH-90s and CH-47s, while maintaining a consistent formation during missions.
Armament and warfare capability
The AW249 is equipped with a flexible weapon system that can adapt to different operational scenarios and mission configurations. Its armament includes a 20 mm Gatling TM197B cannon with a high rate of fire, 70 mm guided and unguided rockets ideal for precision strikes and close support, infrared-guided air-to-air missiles for engaging air targets, and radio or fibre-guided air-to-ground missiles designed to destroy armoured vehicles with pinpoint accuracy. With its combination of firepower, speed, range and endurance, the AW249 is a flagship aircraft for the Italian armed forces, ready to meet the operational challenges of the future with an unprecedented combat capability.
