On 18 July, at Leonardo’s production plant in Vergiate, the new programme to strengthen the Italian Coast Guard’s Air Component was officially presented, launched with the delivery of the new Leonardo AW139 “Nemo 11-19” helicopter. The aircraft represents the first of the 14 new units envisaged by the modernization plan of the rotary wing line, which will bring the total number of helicopters supplied to the Corps to 18. A milestone that marks an important step forward in the operational capacity of the Italian Guard, ensuring greater readiness and versatility in search and rescue, patrol and maritime security missions.
The Leonardo AW139 thus confirms itself as the technological heart of the Italian Coast Guard’s helicopter fleet, capable of ensuring high standards of interoperability also in the international arena, with particular reference to the Mediterranean scenario. In parallel with the renewal of the rotary-wing component, the purchase of a new Leonardo ATR42-600 fixed-wing aircraft, intended to strengthen long-range surveillance capability, and the introduction of remotely piloted aircraft (UAVs), financed with PNRR funds, were also announced. The new systems will be integrated into the operational structure of the Corps, with specially trained personnel and a dedicated employment discipline.
The event was attended, together with the management of Leonardo – Helicopter Division, by the Commander General of the Port Authorities – Italian Coast Guard, Admiral Chief Inspector Nicola Carlone, the Deputy Commander General, Admiral Inspector Sergio Liardo, the Head of the 4th Air, Naval and Land Vehicles Department, Rear Admiral Donato De Carolis and the Head of the Air Vehicles Office, Captain Daniele Giannelli. The collaboration with Leonardo and the implementation of this extensive renewal and development plan represent a strategic investment for the future of the Italian Coast Guard which, for over a century and a half, has represented a garrison of legality, safety and value for the country, contributing every day to the protection of human life at sea, the safety of navigation and the protection of the marine environment.
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