Leonardo is in ‘advanced’ talks to expand the Italian Army’s AW-249 combat helicopter fleet, according to company and military officials. The platform is being pitched for a demanding operational role: flying at high speed and low altitude to penetrate deep into enemy territory, Marco Marinoni, head of the AW-249 acquisition program in the Italian Army, told Breaking Defense.
The expansion signals a shift in Italian force posture toward more aggressive, offensive rotor-wing capabilities. A larger AW-249 fleet would enhance Rome's ability to conduct stand-off strikes and reconnaissance in contested environments, aligning with NATO's push for high-end, multi-domain deterrence on the eastern flank.
Allied partners are watching closely. The AW-249, designed to replace older attack helicopters, could attract export interest from NATO and other European allies seeking a modern, survivable scout-attack platform. No rival responses have been formally issued, but the move underscores growing competition in the European combat helicopter market.
Financial terms of the talks have not been disclosed. The Italian defense budget for 2026 includes allocations for helicopter modernization, though exact contract values and delivery timelines remain under negotiation. Leonardo has not confirmed a target fleet size beyond noting the talks are 'advanced.'
Analysts caution that expanding the AW-249 fleet carries cost and sustainment risks, particularly given Italy's competing procurement priorities. The Italian Army must balance this program with other modernization efforts, including land forces and air defense, making final contract size uncertain.