In December 2022, the first Leonardo AW169 helicopter was delivered to the Austrian Air Force. Yesterday, the third “Lion” helicopter landed in Austria. Three more helicopters are expected by the end of the year. In December of the previous year, Defense Minister Klaudia Tanner signed the option to purchase a total of 36 helicopters, which will be delivered by 2028.
“The modernization of the Air Force is gaining momentum. The new ‘Lion’ helicopters will further enhance the capabilities of our Air Force, thus ensuring the protection and security of the population. It was definitely the right choice to purchase a total of 36 helicopters, as the different configurations can cover a wide range of tasks,” said Defense Minister Klaudia Tanner.
The multipurpose Leonardo AW169 helicopter is particularly powerful and well-suited for operations in mountainous regions. It is capable of flying at night and in adverse weather conditions. Its applications range from troop transport, disaster relief, and emergency measures to firefighting, mountain rescue, medical evacuation flights, and airborne protection in its armed version.
In addition to the arrival of the helicopters, investments are being made in new infrastructure and personnel training. Pilot retraining takes approximately ten weeks, while technical personnel require about six weeks, including three weeks of theory and three weeks of practical training.
The Leonardo AW169 is a 5-ton class helicopter powered by two engines, each providing 826 kW of continuous power. It reaches a top speed of 270 km/h and can fly over 800 km. The maximum flight duration is up to 4 hours and 20 minutes. The helicopter has a payload capacity of up to two tons and can transport up to 12 people. 24 helicopters will be stationed as training or operational helicopters in Langenlebarn, with an additional 12 operational helicopters stationed in Aigen/Ennstal.