Liaquat Ali
Rome: Italy this week publicly showcased its next-generation attack helicopter, the AW249 “Fenice,” as aerospace company Leonardo S.p.A. made the aircraft’s first flying-display debut at the ILA Berlin Air Show, marking a major step in Europe’s evolving military aviation landscape.
Developed for the Italian Army in cooperation with the Italian Ministry of Defence, the AW249 is designed as the successor to the AW129 Mangusta and is being positioned as a modern European competitor to established attack helicopter platforms such as the Boeing AH-64 Apache and Airbus Tiger.
The helicopter’s public demonstration highlighted its agility and next-generation design, as Leonardo presented it as more than a traditional combat aircraft. The company describes the AW249 as a “networked battlefield platform,” capable of operating in environments shaped by drones, electronic warfare, advanced air defence systems, and rapidly shifting ground threats.
Officials say the aircraft is intended not only for current operations but for long-term use over the next several decades, reflecting a broader shift in European defence planning toward digitally integrated and multi-domain warfare systems.
The AW249 features an open architecture design and advanced digital systems, including a large-area cockpit display, modern control interfaces, and an integrated battle management system. These upgrades are intended to reduce pilot workload and improve decision-making in complex operational environments.
A key feature of the helicopter is its ability to operate in coordination with unmanned systems. The AW249 is designed for crewed–uncrewed teaming, allowing it to integrate drones and other airborne assets to extend surveillance, targeting, and operational reach while reducing risk to the crew.
Leonardo also emphasises survivability enhancements, including defensive systems, armour protection, sensor fusion, and electronic warfare countermeasures, designed for operations in heavily contested airspace.
Technically, the aircraft has a maximum take-off weight of approximately 18,300 pounds and is powered by twin General Electric CT7-8E6 engines. It is capable of speeds up to around 155 knots and can be equipped with rockets, missiles, and a 20mm cannon for multi-role combat operations.
The AW249 is expected to replace Italy’s ageing helicopter fleet and support a transition toward more digitally connected battlefield platforms. Italian procurement plans indicate a requirement for up to 48 units, with production already underway and initial deliveries expected later in the decade.
Defence officials say the programme reflects Europe’s effort to develop indigenous high-end military aviation capability as global competition intensifies in advanced rotorcraft technology.
The Berlin debut marks a symbolic milestone for the programme, positioning the AW249 as Italy’s most ambitious step yet into next-generation attack helicopter development and Europe’s broader race to modernise its combat aviation fleet.