The Italian Ministry of Defence has initiated a parliamentary process to secure approval for the acquisition of an additional 29 AW249 Fenice (Phoenix) attack helicopters for the Italian Army. The procurement, valued at 1.22 billion euros (approximately $1.41 billion), aims to finalize a planned fleet of 48 helicopters, which will replace the aging Agusta A129 Mangusta (Mongoose) attack helicopters that have been operational since the 1990s.
This decision marks the third phase of a procurement program that kicked off in 2016. The latest phase includes the purchase of 29 helicopters in the Full Operational Capability configuration, along with the upgrading of 19 pre-existing aircraft to the same advanced standard.
The timeframe for this latest procurement phase spans from 2026 to 2032. It encompasses key elements such as helicopter certification, the industrialization process, a decade of logistical support, and the establishment of a comprehensive training system for personnel.
The AW249 Fenice is designed with capabilities tailored for future combat scenarios, equipped with advanced network-centric features that enable multi-domain operations. Weighing in at 8.3 tons (or about 18,298 pounds), the aircraft is notably larger than its predecessor, allowing it to carry more than double the weapons load—approximately 2,000 kilograms (around 4,409 pounds).
This versatile helicopter is engineered to conduct various missions, including aerial escort, close air support, and air interdiction. Its high-speed capability reaches 155 knots (around 287 km/h or 178 mph) with an operational range of 430 nautical miles (796 km or 495 miles), making it a formidable asset in the field.
The AW249 is equipped with a flexible arsenal that features both guided and unguided munitions, including 70 mm rockets, air-to-air and air-to-ground missiles, and a 20 mm gimballed gun. Moreover, its functionalities are bolstered through innovative features such as crewed-uncrewed teaming and air-launched effectors, which can be precisely controlled from the cockpit to enhance standoff range, operational flexibility, and overall lethality in combat situations.
