Aviation

Leonardo: PZL-Świdnik awarded PLN 8.25 billion gross (EUR 1.76 billion) contract for the supply of 32 AW149 multirole helicopters for the Polish Armed Forces

PZL-Swidnik, a fully owned Polish subsidiary of Leonardo, has been awarded a contract by the Polish Ministry of Defence (MoD) for the supply of 32 AW149 multirole helicopters worth 8.25 billion PLN gross (approximately EUR 1.76 billion). The contract was announced today at PZL-facility Swidnik’s in the presence of representatives from the Polish government.

The contract also covers logistics, simulator packages, and training. The logistics package consists a supply of replacement and consumable parts as well as tools for handling helicopters on the ground. The complete training of pilots and technical staff is part of the training and simulator package, which also involves the delivery of a set of advanced simulators and teaching tools. The new helicopters will perform tasks including air support and troop transportation. The helicopters’ equipment will also enable them to be employed for the transportation of cargo and supplies, search and rescue efforts during battle, and the evacuation of casualties. In order to completely meet the needs of the Polish Armed Forces, the configuration of the helicopters will also contain, among other things, observation systems, small weapons, guided/unguided rockets, missiles and self defence systems. The weaponry can be mounted within the cabin or on the helicopter’s external hard points, depending on the type and configuration. The helicopter deliveries will take place between the years 2023 and 2029.

The AW149, which is already in use with international operators for a variety of applications and is being evaluated by many nations, is perfect for updating defence helicopter fleets and replacing a variety of ageing models in the medium weight category. The AW149 is a multirole military helicopter of the newest generation that was created from the ground up to satisfy the most exacting requirements of the armed forces. The platform may be adjusted to carry out a range of difficult duties under the most trying operational circumstances. High operational availability, mission effectiveness, and fleet cost effectiveness are provided to defence users by the AW149’s advanced equipment, weapons, and system technologies, along with its agility, range/endurance, high power margins, as well as its highest levels of safety and survivability.

“PZL-Swidnik confirms its leadership and the continuation of its 70-year tradition by reaching significant milestones for our aviation industry, demonstrating its comprehensive skills in helicopter design, development, customization, and servicing. Being a former military officer with experience both domestically and abroad, I am well familiar with PZL-Swidnik helicopters and their impressive capabilities. I feel even more satisfied with my obligations now that I am working on the industrial side of this experience and manufacturing products for the current and upcoming generations of warriors.

Aviation

India Launches Its Medium-Lift Class Helicopter Program, chooses New Engine

India’s longstanding need for a Medium Helicopter may soon become a reality as the country has fully ramped up its engine development efforts. This new helicopter is set to replace the Russian-built models currently in service and will play a crucial role across various scenarios for the Indian Armed Forces.

Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL) and SAFHAL Helicopter Engines Pvt. Ltd. (SAFHAL) have launched a groundbreaking partnership to develop a state-of-the-art high-power engine named Aravalli.

This new engine will power the upcoming 13-ton Medium Lift Helicopter (IMRH) and the Deck-Based Multi-Role Helicopter (DBMRH), both of which are being designed and developed by HAL.

Named after the majestic Aravalli mountain range in India, the Aravalli engine symbolizes the country’s drive for self-reliance, or Aatmanirbharta, in critical engine technologies. This cutting-edge engine will be instrumental for the IMRH, a versatile 13-ton multi-role helicopter designed to meet the needs of the Indian armed forces, and the DBMRH, a 12.5-ton naval variant tailored for the Indian Navy.

The IMRH is poised to become a cornerstone of the Indian armed forces over the next decade. With its first flight expected in 3 to 4 years, the IMRH is anticipated to begin induction by 2030, with plans to integrate between 300 to 400 units, and potentially more in the future.

The IMRH is envisioned as a highly versatile multi-role helicopter that will enhance the operational capabilities of the Indian military. The DBMRH, designed for naval operations, will also face the challenges of high-altitude environments in regions such as Ladakh, Sikkim, and Arunachal Pradesh—areas of strategic importance due to their proximity to the China border.

In addition to its military applications, the Aravalli engine is projected to enter the civil market, serving roles in offshore operations, utility services, and VVIP transport. The long-term vision includes Maintenance, Repair, and Overhaul (MRO) activities to further extend the engine’s utility and support the aviation industry.

This collaboration between HAL and SAFHAL builds on their successful history of working together on the Shakti engine, which powers several HAL helicopters, including the Advanced Light Helicopter Dhruv, the Light Combat Helicopter Prachand, and the Light Utility Helicopter. The proven success of this partnership lays a strong foundation for the development of the Aravalli engine, setting the stage for a new era in India’s helicopter capabilities.