Leonardo AW149 Helicopter to Replace Nuri, Complies with MAF Military Specifications

(DEFENCE SECURITY ASIA) – The Leonardo AW149 helicopter, set to replace the Nuri or Sikorsky S-61 for the Royal Malaysian Air Force (RMAF), is specifically a military variant and meets the specifications outlined by the Malaysian Armed Forces (MAF).

RMAF Chief General Tan Sri Mohd Asghar Khan Goriman Khan stated that the specifications of the AW149 helicopters to be received by the RMAF are entirely different from those used for civilian purposes.

He emphasized that the helicopter is well-suited for three primary roles: Search and Rescue (SAR), Combat Search and Rescue (CSAR), and utility missions.

“If we were to opt for a different type of helicopter, we might need to spend more. Moreover, the operational costs of the Leonardo AW149 could potentially be lower compared to other types of helicopters.”

“So, the necessary considerations have been made, and on our side, the RMAF has no issues with it,” he said.

Further explaining, Mohd Asghar mentioned that the AW149 helicopters will be acquired through a lease-purchase agreement, meaning the RMAF will not have to bear the maintenance responsibilities.

Earlier, the Chief of Defence Forces General Tan Sri Mohammad Ab Rahman stated that the plan to acquire new helicopters for the RMAF to replace the Nuri involves the phased procurement of 24 helicopters.

“Phase 1 involves 12 utility-capable Combat Search and Rescue (CSAR) helicopters, and Phase 2 will see the acquisition of an additional 12 helicopters,” he said.

He added that the program is coordinated by the Public-Private Partnership Unit of the Prime Minister’s Department and the National Security Council.

“The type of helicopter that has been finalized through the Public-Private Committee Meeting for the RMAF is 12 units… At this point, we are considering the Leonardo AW149, which is capable of conducting both CSAR missions and utility tasks,” he said, as quoted by local media.

The AW149 is a medium-sized, multi-role helicopter of the latest generation.

It is an effective helicopter with the survivability required by military forces, combining modern technology, equipment, and weaponry with unmatched safety and performance characteristics.

The AW149’s specifications include a maximum weight of 8,600kg, powered by two engines—either 2x General Electric CT7-2E1 or 2x Safran Aneto-1K.

It can carry between 16 to 19 troops, fly at a speed of 294 km/h, cover a range of 1,000 km, and operate for up to 5 hours. — DSA