AMSTERDAM, 16 Jan. 2013. AgustaWestland, a Finmeccanica company, won its first export order for the AW159 helicopter.
The Republic of Korea, having selected the AW159 to meet its Maritime Operational Helicopter requirement, has ordered eight new-generation helicopters to be used by the Republic of Korea Navy.
The new contrac
The Republic of Korea Navy aircraft will be equipped with a wide range of mission equipment including an active dipping sonar, 360-degree scan radar, nose-mounted electro-optical devices, and a rescue hoist. It will also be equipped to carry anti-ship missiles, torpedoes, and a door-mounted gun. These avionics will enable the aircraft to perform a wide range of roles, from shore and ship bases, including anti-surface warfare, anti-submarine warfare, search and rescue, maritime security, and maritime surveillance.
AgustaWestland’s latest helicopter is in service in the U.K. as the AW159 Wildcat.
The company is delivering AW159 Wildcats into service in the U.K. to fulfill the Ministry of Defence’s order for 62 AW159 helicopters for the Royal Navy and British Army.
"Today's announcement demonstrates Britain's ability to successfully compete in the global race,” says Prime Minister David Cameron. “I'm delighted the Korean Government has chosen to continue its relationship with AgustaWestland in selecting this state-of-the-art maritime helicopter, which will help safeguard high-quality jobs and skills in Yeovil and across the country.”
