First AW169 LUH (UH-169) for the Guardia di Finanza?
On 29 December 2020, a new version of the Leonardo AW169M made an ILS approach at Venegono near Varese, Italy. Although not confirmed, CSX82014 (construction number 72001) should be the first AW169 LUH (Light Utility Helicopter) of a batch for Italy’s Guardia di Finanza.
This new version is equipped with skids and a clearly visible adaptation to its horizontal stabilizer. At either end, the vertical fins curve inwards.
On 12 November 2018, Leonardo announced the signing of a contract with the Guardia di Finanza for 22 new generation AW169M twin engine helicopters. The contract, valued at €280 million, includes a comprehensive support and training package which could be further extended with optional services valued at an additional €100 million.
Deliveries were expected to start in summer 2019 and to be completed by 2024, but these are delayed. The new helicopter will be used to perform a range of roles including patrol and reconnaissance, law enforcement, rescue and homeland security, complementing the fleet of fourteen AW139s.
The AW169M (UH-169) of the Guardia di Finanza will receive a military qualification by the Italian Directorate of Air Armaments (ARMAEREO) and will feature a dedicated configuration including rescue hoist, emergency floatation system and life rafts, wire cutters, TCAS II (Traffic Collision Avoidance System), NVG (Night Vision Goggle) compatible cockpit, HTAWS (Helicopter Terrain Awareness Warning System), advanced communication system, OPLS (Obstacle Proximity Lidar System), advanced HUMS (Health Usage Monitoring System), AFCS (Automatic Flight Control System) with SAR modes, searchlight, ice detector, fast roping and satcom.
The AW169M will be also fitted with a range of Leonardo systems such as RW ATOS (Airborne Tactical Observation and Surveillance) system with advanced operator console, Gabbiano radar, LEOSS (Long Range Electro-Optical Surveillance System), M428 IFF transponder, V/UHF radio systems cockpit panels and lighting and provisions for SPHYDER (Smart Processing Hyperspectral Detection and Reconnaissance System).
Photo: Fabrizio Capenti