Rotorcraft
AW169 Targets Gulf Government Sales
The new skid undercarriage is well-suited to military and government agency applications
Abelo ATR deal at Dubai Airshow 2023
Compared with the original wheels, the skid undercarriage option for the AW169 provides greater ground clearance for undernose sensors, and is more robust for military and law enforcement operations. (Photo: David McIntosh)

Leonardo is displaying the latest skid-equipped version of its AW169 utility helicopter at the Dubai Airshow. It recently delivered the example on show to Italy’s Guardia di Finanza (GdF) and airlifted it to Dubai for the airshow and customer demonstrations within the UAE, including to local operators that fly some 10 of the original wheeled version.

The acquisition of more than 20 AW169s by the GdF, 17 to 18 for the Italian Carabinieri police force, and 50 for the Italian army highlights the AW169’s suitability for government agency operations such as military tasks, law enforcement, and rescue. The type suits civilian offshore support missions.