Marks the Start of a New Era for Italian Army Aviation

On September 18, 2024, the Italian Army's new AW249 exploration and escort chopper made its operational exercise debut in Stella Alpina 2024. This pre-production model plays a crucial role in the AW249 program development.

The Stella Alpina exercise was held in Trento, Italy. The 2-week-long session involved over 600 special forces and airborne troops at the foot of Marmolada Mountain, the highest peak in the Dolomites. It intended to test specialized components of the Italian Army with new systems and technologies.

The AW249, also known as FENICE, was developed through a partnership between the Italian Ministry of Defense and Leonardo. The helicopter will serve as a force multiplier in operations requiring coordination with UAVs and provide cyber and electromagnetic protection.

Two prototypes are currently in flight testing, with additional units in the final stages of assembly. The AW249 is built for multi-domain environments and addresses a growing need for cross-platform collaboration in military operations. Its development process allows for real-time technological updates as needed by given threats.

FENICE integrates a Large Area Display (LAD), Enhanced Display Control Unit (EDCU), and Mission Task Simulator (MTS) in the cockpit for additional situational awareness. It also employs an Integrated Helmet Display System (IHDS) with a Low-Light TV sensor that projects images and symbols directly onto the visor for low light or limited visibility conditions.

Information taken from this tech is delivered to the AW249’s Battlefield Management System (BMS), which is used to “improve the command and control of a military unit,” Leonardo explains.

The incorporation of artificial intelligence further elevates the AW249's operational potential by supporting preventative maintenance. This reduces the downtime of the chopper by evaluating various options and overall logistics.

As the AW249 progresses through testing and refinement, it aims to redefine the capabilities of Italian military aviation. The successful demonstration during Stella Alpina 2024 showcases the helicopter’s readiness for modern, multi-domain situations.

FMI: www.leonardo.com