PZL-Świdnik Becomes Key Supplier for Polish Military Helicopter Fleet Modernization

Poland's military is undergoing a significant fleet modernization, phasing out its aging, diverse helicopter inventory, which included Soviet-era Mi-2, Mi-8, Mi-17, Mi-24, and Mi-14 models, alongside domestic W-3 Sokół and SW-4 Puszczyk, and American SH-2G Super Seasprite.

The first major step in this overhaul was a 2019 contract for four AW101 helicopters for the Navy, configured for anti-submarine warfare and combat search and rescue. Delivered in 2023, these aircraft have achieved peak operational readiness, surpassing global benchmarks for the AW101 fleet. However, the Navy still faces a gap in ship-based helicopter capabilities for its new frigates.

A more substantial contract, signed in July 2022 under the "Perkoz" program, involves 32 multi-role AW149 helicopters for the Army, with deliveries scheduled through 2029. This deal includes comprehensive logistics, training, and the development of industrial capacity at PZL-Świdnik. The first AW149s arrived in October 2023, with the initial units produced in Italy while a domestic production line was established. By 2025, the first helicopter fully manufactured in Poland was delivered. Currently, 16 AW149s are in service, with more rolling off the production line.

Users praise the AW149, with Major Miłosz Tomaszkiewicz, an instructor pilot, calling it a "game-changer" due to its speed, larger cabin, advanced optronics, and secure data exchange capabilities. Domestic production allows for continuous adaptation to evolving military needs, a process military officials highly commend.