TAI/Leonardo T129 ATAK
Turkish Aerospace Industries (TAI) · Turkey · first flew 2011 · helicopter
The TAI T129 ATAK is a twin-engine tandem-seat attack helicopter developed by Turkish Aerospace Industries in partnership with Leonardo (formerly AgustaWestland), based on the A129 Mangusta airframe with extensive Turkish-specific systems integration. It serves as the primary attack helicopter of the Turkish Land Forces.
Recognition (WEFT)
| W — Wings | High-mounted, rotary |
|---|---|
| E — Engines | 2 × turboshaft, fuselage-mounted |
| F — Fuselage | 14.54 m fuselage |
| T — Tail | Conventional |
WEFT is AircraftIQ's four-point recognition method — how it works.
Spot it by:
- Tandem-seat Turkish attack helicopter derived from AgustaWestland A129 Mangusta
- ASELFLIR sensor nose and stub weapon wings
- Turkish-localised avionics and eventually LHTEC CTS800 engines
Distinguish from the A129 Mangusta by the enlarged ASELFLIR nose sensor turret, Turkish roundels, and local weapon pylons; the overall slim tandem fuselage and stub wings are inherited from the Mangusta.
Specifications
- The TAI/Leonardo T129 ATAK has a length of 14.54 m (48 ft).
- It has a wingspan of 3.2 m (10 ft).
- Its maximum speed is 281 km/h (175 mph).
- Typical crew: 2.
Figures are for the representative variant described above; marks differ. See how AircraftIQ sources figures.
History
Turkey selected a derivative of the A129 to meet its attack helicopter requirement rather than purchasing off-the-shelf Western types, aiming to build domestic aerospace capacity. The T129 incorporates Turkish-made sensors, weapons, and avionics. Subsequent export was constrained by US sanctions on the LHTEC CTS800 engine, prompting Turkey to pursue an indigenous turboshaft replacement.
Variants
The T129A was the initial variant; the T129B introduces enhanced avionics; export versions have been offered to several countries.
Where you'll see it
In service with the Turkish Land Forces and Turkish Gendarmerie; Pakistan has also ordered the type.
Related aircraft
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