First Polish-built AW149 Helicopter Enters Army Service

The Polish Army has inducted its first AW149 helicopter built on the country’s new production line, marking the eleventh aircraft delivered under a 2022 contract for 32 units.

The handover took place on November 27 at the 7th Aviation Squadron of the 25th Air Cavalry Brigade, where Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of National Defence Władysław Kosiniak-Kamysz met with soldiers for the rollout of the helicopter manufactured by PZL Świdnik.

“The first 10 came from Italy, but the next 22, including the one being presented today, will be produced in Poland,” Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of National Defense Władysław Kosiniak-Kamysz said.

Under a contract signed in 2022, WSK PZL-Świdnik SA was required to establish a dedicated AW149 assembly line at Świdnik. With the line active, 21 more helicopters are scheduled to enter service by 2029.

The AW149 is a medium multi-role military helicopter designed for battlefield support, medical evacuation, transport, close air support, combat and maritime rescue, as well as command missions.