AgustaWestland AW139

The AW139M, a versatile military variant of the AW139, fulfils the requirements for military and government operations in both day and night conditions, even in the most difficult terrains.

It integrates cutting-edge technology and robust power reserves with built-in safety features and resilience, while also offering the option to incorporate specialised mission equipment, such as internal and external weapon systems.

The AW139M, an intermediate twin-engine aircraft, is designed to excel in demanding battlefield missions such as battlefield support, tactical troop transport, logistics support, threat suppression, fire support, Command and Control (C2), medical evacuation, Search and Rescue (SAR), Combat Search and Rescue (CSAR), and special forces operations.

The latest digital avionics technology significantly improves situational awareness and minimises the workload for pilots.

The glass cockpit, which is compatible with Night Vision Goggles (NVG), consists of four spacious liquid crystal displays.

Additionally, there is an optional fifth display available for a moving map and cameras.

The avionics system is seamlessly integrated with a four-axis digital autopilot and incorporates advanced SAR modes.

Moreover, Full Authority Digital Engine Control (FADEC) ensures optimal performance of the helicopter in any weather condition.

The AW139M has been specifically designed to provide unparalleled safety and resilience during battlefield operations.

It incorporates various features such as a discreet visual appearance, thermal and acoustic signature reduction, redundant systems, self-sealing fuel tanks, ballistic protection, robust landing gear, and exceptional crashworthiness.

Additionally, the advanced defensive aid suite further enhances the safety and overall effectiveness of the AW139M in fulfilling its mission objectives.

Variants

AB139

Original Italian-built production aircraft, 54 built.

AW139

Designation changes from 55th aircraft onwards, built in Italy.

AW139

(Long nose configuration)

Long nose variant with increased room for avionics built in Italy and the United States.

AW139M

A militarised variant, capable of carrying various weapon payloads.

HH-139A

Italian Air Force designation for ten search-and rescue configured AW139Ms.

VH-139A

Italian Air Force designation for two VIP configured AW139s.

HH-139B

Italian Air Force designation for newer AW139.

UH-139C.

Italian State Police designation.

UH-139D.

Italian Carabinieri designation.

PH-139D

Italian Guardia di Finanza designation.

US139

This military variant was the AgustaWestland proposed entry for the US Army Light Utility Helicopter program in partnership with L-3 Communications.

MH-139 Grey Wolf

Military variant from Boeing in partnership with Leonardo.

It was selected by the United States Air Force to replace its UH-1N fleet.

The USAF accepted its first MH-139 on 19, 2019 and named it “Grey Wolf”.

AW139W

A variant offered to the Polish Armed Forces.

Specifications

Crew

One or two

Capacity

Up to 15 passengers, depending on configuration.

Length

16.66 m (54 ft 8 in)

Width

2.26 m (10 ft 0 in)

Height

4.98 m (16 ft 4 in)

Gross weight

6,400 kg (14,110 lb);

7,000 kg (15,000 lb) for 7 t version

Fuel capacity

1568 litres (414 US gal)

Powerplant

2 × Pratt & Whitney Canada PT6C-67C turboshaft engine,

1,142 kW (1,531 hp) each

Main rotor diameter

13.80 m (45 ft 3 in)

Performance

Maximum speed

310 km/h (193 mph, 167 kn)

Cruise speed

306 km/h (191 mph, 165 kn)

Range

1,061 km (659 mi, 573 nmi)

Endurance

5 hours 13 minutes

Service ceiling

6,096 m (20,000 ft)

Rate of climb

10.9 m/s (2,140 ft/min).

Sources

Agusta – AW139

AW139M – Military Helicopters | Leonardo – Helicopters