Polish Navy’s AW101 takes first flight
The versatility of the AW101 platform permits customers to configure the helicopter for a wide range of primary and secondary roles. (Image: Leonardo)
Leonardo’s AW101 for the Polish Navy takes the first flight to test its main airframe, control system and engine handling.
Leonardo celebrates as the Polish Navy’s first AW101 flies for the first time from the company’s site in Yeovil on 19 July 2021.
The flight demonstrated functional checks of the main airframe systems as well as the control system. Engine-handling checks were taken through to monitor the speed range of the aircraft.
There are more tests exploring the bespoke mission equipment fitted to the aircraft.
The AW101 will perform a range of missions for the Polish Naval Aviation Brigade including ASW and CSAR.
It will be equipped with the most modern mission systems, including autopilot with SAR modes, data transmission system, tactical navigation system and protection and defence systems both passive and active.
The AW101 features a tactical radio, reconnaissance radar, an observation head (FLIR), an S-mode transponder and a 12.7mm machine gun.
According to Shephard Defence Insight, Poland signed a deal to procure four AW101 helicopters with four options for CSAR and ASW missions in April 2019.
The helicopters are expected to replace the country’s Mi-14 ‘Haze’ ASW helicopters and SH-2G Super Seasprites in service with the Navy. The contract is valued at $430 million.
More from Air Warfare
-
![NATO’s E-3A fleet more important than ever, says force commander]()
NATO’s E-3A fleet more important than ever, says force commander
NATO’s E-3A fleet will have been in service for more than half a century by the time of their expected retirement but a boost to the capability and conflict elsewhere have highlighted their importance.
-
![NATO progresses effort to replace E-3A AWACS fleet]()
NATO progresses effort to replace E-3A AWACS fleet
NATO’s E-3A AWACS fleet has been scheduled for retirement from 2035. The NATO Support and Procurement Agency (NSPA) has been leading the Alliance Future Surveillance and Control (AFSC) project to develop new options for future surveillance and control capabilities, based on future technology and requirements.
-
![How Russia’s declining arms sales is reshaping the global defence industry]()
How Russia’s declining arms sales is reshaping the global defence industry
As Serbia considers a multi-billion-euro deal for French Rafale fighter jets, its move towards Western arms has signalled a significant departure from its reliance on Russian equipment, reflecting broader shifts in global defence procurement.
