The Italian Ministry of Defence has initiated a parliamentary process to authorize the purchase of 29 additional AW249 Fenice (Phoenix) attack helicopters for the Italian Army. The deal, valued at 1.22 billion euros ($1.41 billion), represents the next major phase in Italy’s plan to replace its A129 Mangusta fleet, which has served since the early 1990s.
This latest phase of the AW249 program, launched in 2016, will bring the total fleet to 48 helicopters, completing Italy’s next-generation attack rotorcraft lineup. It covers the acquisition of 29 helicopters in the Full Operational Capability (FOC) configuration and the upgrade of 19 aircraft procured under earlier phases to the same standard.
Scheduled to run between 2026 and 2032, the program encompasses helicopter certification, industrialization, ten years of logistical support, and the development of a comprehensive training system to sustain operational readiness.
Developed by Leonardo, the AW249 Fenice is a new-generation attack helicopter tailored for network-centric and multi-domain operations. Weighing 8.3 tons, it carries nearly 2,000 kilograms of armament, more than twice the payload of its predecessor. With a top speed of 155 knots and a range of 430 nautical miles, the Fenice can perform diverse missions including air interdiction, close air support, and aerial escort.
Equipped with guided and unguided weapons, such as 70mm rockets, air-to-air and air-to-ground missiles, and a 20mm nose-mounted gun, the AW249 also supports crewed-uncrewed teaming and air-launched effectors. These capabilities allow pilots to control unmanned assets directly from the cockpit, improving standoff range, survivability, and mission lethality.
