Leonardo AW249

Leonardo · Italy · first flew 2022 · fighter

The Leonardo AW249 is a new-generation attack helicopter developed for the Italian Army to replace the AW129 Mangusta. It features advanced avionics, a modern sensor suite, and is designed for anti-tank and armed reconnaissance roles.

Recognition (WEFT)

W — Wings	High-mounted, rotary
E — Engines	2 × turboshaft, fuselage-mounted
F — Fuselage	17.63 m fuselage
T — Tail	Conventional

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Italian Army next-generation attack helicopter
Five-blade main rotor with advanced composite blades
Tandem cockpit with stepped seating for gunner and pilot

Distinguished by its large five-blade main rotor, tandem stepped cockpit, stub wings for weapons carriage, and modern sensor turret under the nose. Larger and more angular than the AW129 it replaces.

Specifications

The Leonardo AW249 has a length of 17.63 m (58 ft).
It has a wingspan of 14.6 m (48 ft).
Its maximum speed is 287 km/h (178 mph).
Typical crew: 2.

Figures are for the representative variant described above; marks differ. See how AircraftIQ sources figures.

History

Development of the AW249 began in the mid-2010s following an Italian Army requirement for a Mangusta successor. Leonardo conducted the first flight in 2022 and the program is progressing toward Italian Army service entry in the late 2020s. The design draws on AW189 technology while being optimized for combat missions.

Variants

Currently in development as a single variant; potential export versions may follow after Italian Army adoption.

Where you'll see it

Intended for the Italian Army; no other operators confirmed as of 2025.

Related aircraft

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