Republic of Korea orders AgustaWestland AW159 helicopter

Jan. 16, 2013
AMSTERDAM, 16 Jan. 2013. AgustaWestland, a Finmeccanica company, won its first export order for the AW159 helicopter.

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

t includes aircrew and maintainer training, initial spares, and support services. Deliveries of the AW159s for the Republic of Korea will start in 2015 and be completed in 2016.

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.”

About the Author

Courtney E. Howard | Chief Editor, Intelligent Aerospace

Courtney enjoys writing about all things high-tech in PennWell’s burgeoning Aerospace and Defense Group, which encompasses Intelligent Aerospace and Military & Aerospace Electronics. She’s also a self-proclaimed social-media maven, mil-aero nerd, and avid avionics and space geek. Connect with Courtney at [email protected], @coho on Twitter, on LinkedIn, and on Google+.

Voice your opinion!

To join the conversation, and become an exclusive member of Military Aerospace, create an account today!