Leonardo: orders for 8 AW139 helicopters have been signed for rescue, patrolling and public safety in Italy

(To Leonardo)
12/12/17

Leonardo announced yesterday new orders for the intermediate twin-engine AW139 helicopter destined to missions of public utility and safety in Italy. The eight units are valued around 112 million.

The Italian Coast Guard has signed a contract for two helicopters to be allocated to search and rescue missions, with deliveries to be completed by the end of the 2018. The Guardia di Finanza ordered six AW139s to carry out patrolling missions, with deliveries within 2020.

Upon completion of the deliveries, the two operators will have a fleet of 14 AW139 helicopters each, allowing a further improvement of their operational capabilities and an efficient logistics, while replacing the obsolete AB412. The Italian Coast Guard recently reached the milestone of the 10.000 flight hours with the AW139 fleet, saving many lives and providing evidence of the extraordinary validity and reliability of the partnership with Leonardo. The Guardia di Finanza has used its AW139 to perform a wide range of roles throughout the country, with patrolling and reconnaissance missions in mountainous and maritime areas, as well as for public security and search and rescue missions.