Leonardo has announced the signing of a contract with Italy’s Guardia di Finanza for 22 new generation AW169M twin engine helicopters. The contract, valued at €280 million, includes a comprehensive support and training package which could be further extended with optional services valued at an additional €100 million. Deliveries are expected to start in summer 2019 and to be completed by 2024.
The aircraft will be used to perform a range of roles including patrol and reconnaissance, law enforcement, rescue and homeland security, complementing a fleet of 14 AW139 intermediate twins, six of which are already in service and the following eight due to be delivered in 2019.