Leonardo launches tender for AW249 helicopter transceivers
With a maximum take-off weight in the range of 7-8 tonnes, the AW249 will combine speed and endurance to perform a range of missions. (Image: Leonardo)
Leonardo has announced its intention to issue a call for tender for TACAN transceivers for use on AW249 helicopters.
Leonardo has announced it intends to issue a call for tender for TACtical Air Navigation (TACAN) transceivers to be installed onboard the AW249 helicopters.
The deadline for the tender is on 25 February and the duration of the contract is expected to be 25 years.
There is a list of requirements for the successful applicant.
This includes achievement of valid quality management systems for the Aerospace industry certifications (AS/EN/JISQ 9100) and certification of European Military Airworthiness Requirements (EASA Part21/ EMAR 21 - EASA Part145/ EMAR 145).
AW249 is an attack helicopter being developed by Leonardo based on the AW149 tactical transport helicopter.
The AW249 project began as the new reconnaissance and escort helicopter (NEES) and was unveiled to the public in 2017 when a 487 million ($550 million) contract was awarded for the development programme.
According to Shephard Defence Insight, the first flight test was scheduled to be completed in 2020, however, there was no news confirming the tests.
Related Equipment in Defence Insight
You may also like
More from Air Warfare
-
![Nuclear “Manhattan Project-type endeavour” plausible for AI advancement, says UK Chief of Defence Staff]()
Nuclear “Manhattan Project-type endeavour” plausible for AI advancement, says UK Chief of Defence Staff
Admiral Sir Tony Radakin also urged caution over a “drone-tastic” way of thinking when it comes to their use alongside traditional air and underwater domain platforms.
-
![Teal Drones delivers first Black Widows as parent company reports six-month loss]()
Teal Drones delivers first Black Widows as parent company reports six-month loss
In July 2025 Teal Drones was awarded Tranche 2 of the US Army’s Short Range Reconnaissance (SRR) programme for a small uncrewed aerial system (sUAS).
-
![Planned Singapore fighter detachment in Guam scrapped]()
Planned Singapore fighter detachment in Guam scrapped
Singapore’s Ministry of Defence said the decision to discontinue discussions on the fighter training detachment was mutually agreed with the US.
-
![India fast-tracks indigenous MALE drones as US trade rift stalls big-ticket deals]()
India fast-tracks indigenous MALE drones as US trade rift stalls big-ticket deals
With US tariffs and stalled defence talks slowing imports, India has cleared a $3.4 billion plan for 87 tri‑service MALE UAVs with 60% indigenous content – accelerating self‑reliance as operational lessons from May’s four‑day conflict drive urgency.
-
![Elbit Systems discloses Iron Beam update and work on laser solution for IAF]()
Elbit Systems discloses Iron Beam update and work on laser solution for IAF
In its Q2 earnings call, the company said it has internal targets set for similar double-digit growth for 2026, as it welcomed a 21% boost in 2025 profits so far compared to 2024.
-
![Poland confirms US$3.8 billion F-16V upgrade]()
Poland confirms US$3.8 billion F-16V upgrade
The Mid-Life Upgrade agreement comes as Poland makes significant increases in its defence spend as its plans to increase it to 5% of GDP by 2026.
