ILA 2026: Leonardo AW249 attack helicopter makes Berlin debut

The AW249 being wheeled into position at ILA Berlin 2026, ahead of its debut flying display at an air show. (Janes/Gareth Jennings)

The Leonardo AW249 Fenice (Phoenix) attack helicopter made its public flying debut at the ILA Berlin Airshow.

Developed in the first instance for the Italian Army but also pitched at the global export market, the heavy attack helicopter flew at the biennial event running from 10 to 14 June 2026.

The AW249 was publicly showcased for the first time at the Eurosatory 2024 exhibition in Paris. As noted by Janes All the World's Aircraft: Development & Production, the AW249 is a twin-engined, twin-seat attack helicopter being developed by Leonardo primarily for the Italian Armed Forces, but for export also. It will be a 7–8 tonne replacement for the Italian Armyʼs Leonardo AW129 Mangusta, with better performance (cruising speed, operational ceiling, and endurance), increased survivability, offensive capability, digital communications, autonomy, and reduced infrared signature.

The basic airframe is similar in design and appearance to the smaller AW129 (as well as the derived T129 ATAK and also the T929 ATAK 2 from Türkiye), while the AW249 is powered by two General Electric (GE) CT7-8E6 turboshaft engines producing 1,900 kW (2,500 shp) each. The two crew are accommodated in night-vision goggle-compatible cockpits, while previously released conceptual imagery shows the cockpits to be fitted with large area displays.

The AW249 can carry up to 2,000 kg (4,409 lb) of weapons, including the Rafael Spike and other air-to-ground and air-to-air missiles, unguided/guided rockets, or external fuel tanks, on six stations. It is also equipped with a nose-mounted TM197B 20 mm machine gun.

For more, please see Italy approves follow-on order for AW249 attack helicopter