Polish Prime Minister Mateusz Morawiecki has announced that his administration is actively pursuing a fresh agreement for Italian AW-101 helicopters, manufactured in Poland, destined for deployment within the country’s armed forces.
Morawiecki made this significant announcement during his visit to the PZL-Świdnik helicopter production facility, located in the southeastern town of Świdnik, on Friday. In his remarks, he highlighted Poland’s existing contract for 32 multi-role AW-149 helicopters with the same manufacturing plant. However, he indicated the government’s intentions to potentially expand this collaboration by placing an order for AW-101 helicopters from PZL-Świdnik.
“We are also dedicated to securing new contracts, a substantial one for the AW-101,” Morawiecki asserted. He further disclosed that the proposed order could encompass approximately 20 to 21 units of the AW-101 model. Expressing his unwavering commitment to the endeavor, he vowed, “I will do everything possible to see this contract through.”
Morawiecki underscored the pressing need within the Polish armed forces for versatile helicopters like the AW-149, emphasizing the strategic importance of such assets.
It’s worth noting that PZL-Świdnik is a subsidiary of the multinational corporation Leonardo, with its headquarters situated in Italy. This development highlights the international collaboration involved in the production and procurement of these advanced military helicopters.