Leonardo AW119Kx Helicopters Set for Bosnia and Herzegovina
The US State Department has given the green light for the sale of Leonardo AW119Kx helicopters to Bosnia and Herzegovina. This significant deal encompasses a range of support services, including training, in-country field service assistance, aviation and ground support services, as well as maintenance and spare parts. The estimated cost of the package is around $100 million, although specifics regarding the number of helicopters involved have not yet been disclosed.
In addition to the helicopters, the agreement includes the deployment of up to five US government officials and seven contractor representatives to Bosnia and Herzegovina over a five-year span. Their roles will focus on support operations and training, underscoring the collaborative nature of this military sale.
Strengthening Security Ties
This agreement comes as part of the United States’ broader national security and foreign policy goals. By bolstering the armed forces of a key partner in Europe, the deal is intended to foster political stability and promote economic progress throughout the region. Notably, this sale is designed to ensure that it does not interfere with the operational readiness of US armed forces or disrupt the military equilibrium in the Balkans.
The proposed sale aims to enhance the operational capabilities of the Armed Forces of Bosnia and Herzegovina (AFBiH) to address both current and emerging threats. It will also serve to strengthen NATO cooperation in the region and meet national security objectives, especially in light of the country’s challenging mountainous terrain.
Enhanced Operational Capabilities
The introduction of the AW119Kx helicopters is expected to significantly improve the AFBiH’s ability to conduct a variety of missions. This includes tasks related to disaster response, search and rescue operations, and humanitarian assistance efforts. Additionally, the helicopters will be utilized for training new pilots, further enhancing the operational readiness of Bosnia’s military.
With their advanced capabilities, the AW119Kx will be a crucial asset for Bosnia and Herzegovina’s military, allowing them to effectively respond to both national and regional challenges. The helicopters will not only bolster military readiness but also support broader security initiatives across Europe.
Technical Specifications of the AW119Kx
The Leonardo AW119Kx helicopter stands out due to its impressive dimensions and advanced technical specifications. With a length of 13 meters (43 feet) and a rotor diameter of 11 meters (36 feet), the aircraft is designed for versatility and efficiency. Weighing 1,500 kilograms (3,307 pounds), it is powered by the robust Pratt & Whitney Canada PT6B-37A turboshaft engine, delivering 920 horsepower.
The AW119Kx can reach impressive altitudes exceeding 4,500 meters (14,764 feet) and boasts a top speed of 150 knots (278 kilometers or 173 miles per hour). Additionally, it has a range of 515 nautical miles (954 kilometers or 593 miles), making it capable of sustained missions with up to five hours of continuous flight. These capabilities reflect the aircraft’s potential to perform effectively in a variety of challenging environments.
