In a major development for the Polish Navy, the first of four AW101 anti-submarine and rescue helicopters is en route to Poland, as confirmed by Mariusz Błaszczak, the defence minister. Later that day, Armanent Agency informed that the first AW101 chopper landed in Poland. The procurement of these cutting-edge helicopters is part of a PLN 1.65 billion (EUR 373 million) contract signed in April 2019 in Świdnik, southeastern Poland. The contract also includes an offset agreement worth over PLN 395.8 million (EUR 89.3 million).
Originally scheduled for delivery by the end of 2022, the AW101s faced delays, but now they are finally on their way to Poland, marking a significant step in strengthening the nation’s naval capabilities.
In a recent announcement on the social media platform X (formerly known as Twitter), Mariusz Błaszczak stated, “Deliveries of AW101 anti-submarine helicopters have started. The first one is already on its way to Poland.”
Later that day, the official account for the Armament Agency informed that “the first AW101 is already in Poland.”
Before being commissioned for active service, the AW101 helicopters will undergo a series of rigorous tests at the PZL Świdnik aviation plant.
The AgustaWestland AW101 is equipped with three powerful turboshaft engines, enabling it to effectively combat submarines and participate in critical search and rescue missions. This state-of-the-art British-Italian construction, produced by the Leonardo group, which also owns PZL-Świdnik, emerged as the sole contender in the tender after Airbus Helicopters withdrew from the competition.
Manufactured at facilities in Yeovil, England, and Vergiate, Italy, the AW101 choppers represent the latest in advanced naval aviation technology, ensuring Poland’s Navy is well-prepared for its future missions.