As part of its army rotorcraft modernization plan, Italy has ordered the first tranche of AW249 Fenice (Phoenix) attack helicopters from Leonardo. The program, initiated in 2017, envisions a fleet of up to 48 helicopters to succeed the long-serving Agusta A129 Mangusta, operational since the 1990s. The initial procurement includes 17 units, with Leonardo scheduled to begin deliveries in 2027.
