Helicopter manufacturer Leonardo has announced the sale of four AW101s and a comprehensive integrated logistics and training package to the Polish Navy.
PZL-Świdnik, Leonardo’s main industrial presence in Poland, will act as the prime contractor and responsible for the entire contract execution, was selected in a multi-stage process. The Świdnik facility already plays a significant role in the production of all the AW101s ordered worldwide.
Polish Prime Minister Mateusz Morawiecki, Defence Minister Mariusz Błaszczak and Leonardo CEO Alessandro Profumo were all present for the ceremony at Leonardo’s facility in Świdnik.
With deliveries expected to be completed by 2022 the AW101 will perform a range of missions including Anti-Submarine Warfare (ASW) and Combat Search and Rescue (CSAR). This contract signing for the AW101s and the related support package follows the Offset Agreement, valued at around 90 million Euros. The AW101s will replace Mil Mi-14s, which are believed to be targeted as replacements for the same number of Kaman SH-2G Seasprites. It would also put the AW101 in prime position to replace the ageing Mil Mi-14 Haze fleet in due course.
Alessandro Profumo, Leonardo CEO, said, “We are proud that the Polish MoD has confirmed its trust in Leonardo as one of its key partners to collaborate on national defence, to support the modernization of the Armed Forces and boost technological and industrial growth. We are committed to further reinforcing our presence and contribution to Poland, one of Leonardo’s home countries where we see significant collaboration opportunities in the future.”
Gian Piero Cutillo, Leonardo Helicopters MD, added: “The supply of the best-in-class maritime AW101s will allow the Polish Navy to meet its rigorous requirements for the protection of national security in the Baltic Sea and for NATO operations. It will also enable life-saving missions in demanding conditions with second-to-none effectiveness, leveraging Leonardo’s leading role in the maritime helicopter field. Also, the broad scope of industrial collaboration under the Offset Agreement will guarantee secure and independent fleet management.”
To further consolidate its presence and develop its business in Poland, Leonardo is establishing a new legal entity headquartered in Warsaw. Leonardo Poland will represent and promote the entire technological and product portfolio. It will support the customer during the programs’ life cycle to develop partnerships with Polish industry, ensuring closeness to the customer and local stakeholders. Marco Lupo has been appointed President of Leonardo Poland, with the objective of tightening relations with Polish customers and stakeholders and reinforcing the already well-established position of Leonardo in the country.
Jeremy Parkin