A Milestone for Polish Defense: First Domestically Built AW149 Delivered

On November 27, 2025, a significant chapter in Poland’s military modernization efforts was written at the 25th Air Cavalry Brigade airbase in Nowy Glinnik. The Polish Armed Forces officially took delivery of the first AW149 multirole Helicopters manufactured entirely on domestic soil. This event marks a pivotal moment for the nation’s defense industry, signaling the successful activation of full production capabilities at the PZL-Świdnik facility. While the Polish military has already received initial units from this fleet, those were manufactured in Italy to meet urgent operational requirements. This latest Delivery, the 11th unit overall, is the first of 22 helicopters to be built locally, representing a shift from simple procurement to industrial sovereignty.

We observe that this delivery is not merely a logistical handover but the tangible result of the PLN 8.25 billion (€1.76 billion) Contracts signed in July 2022. The agreement, which encompasses 32 helicopters in total, was structured to balance immediate military needs with long-term economic benefits. By splitting production between Leonardo’s Vergiate facility in Italy and the PZL-Świdnik plant in Poland, the Ministry of National Defense ensured a rapid initial influx of hardware while simultaneously upgrading local industrial infrastructure. The arrival of this specific aircraft confirms that the technology transfer and workforce training initiatives undertaken over the last three years have reached maturity.

The strategic importance of this event extends beyond the hardware itself. It validates the “Perkoz” program, an initiative designed to replace the aging Soviet-era Mi-2 and W-3 Sokół platforms that have served the Polish military for decades. As we analyze the current geopolitical climate in Central Europe, the necessity for modern, interoperable, and locally supportable equipment becomes undeniable. This delivery demonstrates that Poland is capable of sustaining its own supply chain for advanced rotary-wing assets, a critical factor for national security resilience.

Industrial Capabilities and Economic Impact

The production of the AW149 in Poland is a testament to the capabilities of PZL-Świdnik, a company with a long history in aviation that is now fully integrated into the Leonardo group. Establishing a domestic production line required more than just assembling imported kits; it involved creating a complete technological chain. This includes systems integration, final assembly, and rigorous flight testing protocols conducted within Poland. According to reports from the handover ceremony, the facility reached full production capability approximately 20 months after the contract signature, a timeline that underscores the urgency and efficiency of the program.

From an economic perspective, the localization of the AW149 program has generated high-tech employment opportunities in the Lublin region. The contract stipulated not only the delivery of airframes but also a comprehensive logistics package, simulators, and a stockpile of spare parts. By anchoring these elements in Poland, the defense sector ensures that maintenance and upgrades can be performed locally, reducing reliance on external supply chains during potential crises. We can see this as a dual-purpose investment: strengthening the 25th Air Cavalry Brigade while simultaneously injecting capital and expertise into the Polish industrial base.

The collaboration between Italian and Polish engineers has also facilitated a deep exchange of technical know-how. Polish staff underwent extensive training at Leonardo’s Italian facilities to master the specific requirements of the AW149 platform. This human capital development is likely to pay dividends for decades, as the workforce at PZL-Świdnik is now equipped to handle future upgrades and potential export opportunities for the platform.

“The AW149 is a very good multirole helicopter, produced in cooperation with our Italian allies here in Poland. Today’s ceremony is also proof that we are developing our military capabilities while supporting jobs in the country.”

, Władysław Kosiniak-Kamysz, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of National Defense.

Technical Specifications and Combat Readiness

The AW149 is categorized as a medium-lift, multirole military helicopter, but its configuration for the Polish Armed Forces pushes it into the realm of heavy combat support. One of the most critical upgrades this platform introduces is the restoration of guided anti-tank capabilities. For years, the Polish military faced a capability gap following the depletion of missile stocks for its legacy Mi-24 fleet. The AW149 bridges this gap effectively. It is integrated with AGM-114R2 Hellfire II missiles, providing precision-strike capability against armored targets. This transforms the helicopter from a simple transport vehicle into a formidable asset capable of shaping the battlefield.

In terms of performance, the aircraft is designed to operate in diverse and demanding environments. It boasts a maximum range of 958 kilometers and an endurance of approximately 4 hours and 55 minutes. With a top speed of 313 km/h, it offers rapid reaction times for air assault missions. The cabin is versatile, capable of transporting up to 19 passengers or 16 fully equipped troops, making it ideal for the rapid deployment forces of the 25th Air Cavalry Brigade. Furthermore, the Avionics suite includes advanced Electro-Optical/Infra-Red (EO/IR) sensors and secure communication systems, allowing the AW149 to serve as an airborne command post when necessary.

We must also consider the armament flexibility beyond the Hellfire missiles. The helicopters are equipped with 70mm rockets, capable of firing both guided and unguided variants, and cabin-mounted 7.62mm machine guns for infantry support. This mix of weaponry allows the crew to engage a wide spectrum of targets, from heavy armor to soft-skinned vehicles and enemy personnel. The inclusion of a modern self-defense suite ensures that the aircraft can survive in contested airspace, a mandatory requirement for modern high-intensity conflict scenarios.

“We have created a full technological chain for helicopter production and testing… The first helicopter for the 25th Air Cavalry Brigade was delivered 15 months after the contract was signed, and full production capability in Poland was reached after 20 months.”

, Bartosz Śliwa, President of PZL-Świdnik.

Strategic Context and Future Outlook

The induction of the domestically built AW149 is part of a broader modernization matrix for the Polish Armed Forces. It serves as a bridge to the future fleet of AH-64E Apache attack helicopters, which Poland is also acquiring. While the Apaches will provide heavy attack capabilities, the AW149s will handle utility, transport, and combat support roles, creating a layered and complementary rotary-wing force. The ability to produce the support fleet domestically allows the military to allocate foreign procurement budgets to systems that cannot yet be built locally, optimizing overall defense spending.

Looking ahead, the delivery schedule remains aggressive. With the first Polish-built unit now in service, PZL-Świdnik is tasked with delivering the remaining 21 units by 2029. The successful adherence to this timeline will be a key indicator of Poland’s growing maturity as a defense manufacturer. As the 7th Aviation Squadron of the 25th Air Cavalry Brigade integrates these machines, we expect to see an increase in joint training exercises, validating the operational concepts that drove this procurement.

Ultimately, the arrival of the first Polish-made AW149 is a validation of Poland’s strategy to couple defense spending with industrialization. It secures a vital supply chain, modernizes a key component of the armed forces, and proves that the Polish defense industry can deliver complex systems on time and to specification. As the fleet grows over the coming years, the AW149 is set to become the workhorse of the Polish Army Aviation, symbolizing a new era of self-reliance and technological advancement.

Concluding Section

In summary, the November 27, 2025, handover of the first domestically produced AW149 helicopter represents a major achievement for both the Polish Armed Forces and the local defense industry. It marks the transition from relying on emergency foreign deliveries to establishing a sustainable, sovereign production capability. The collaboration between the Ministry of National Defense and PZL-Świdnik has yielded a platform that not only replaces obsolete equipment but also introduces new combat capabilities, particularly in anti-tank warfare.

As we look toward the completion of the contract in 2029, the focus will shift to the operational integration of these assets and the long-term maintenance of the fleet. This program serves as a blueprint for future defense procurements, demonstrating how international cooperation can be leveraged to build domestic industrial strength. The AW149 is now firmly established as a cornerstone of Poland’s air mobility and combat support strategy.

FAQ

Question: What is the primary role of the AW149 in the Polish Armed Forces?
Answer: The AW149 is a multirole helicopter designed for transport, combat support, and command post missions. It is capable of carrying troops, conducting air assault operations, and engaging armored targets using guided missiles.

Question: How many AW149 helicopters is Poland purchasing?
Answer: Poland has signed a contract for a total of 32 AW149 helicopters. The first 10 were produced in Italy, while the remaining 22 are being manufactured domestically by PZL-Świdnik.

Question: What armament does the Polish AW149 carry?
Answer: The helicopters are equipped with AGM-114R2 Hellfire II anti-tank missiles, 70mm guided and unguided rockets, and cabin-mounted 7.62mm machine guns.

Sources

• Janes Defence News

A Milestone in Modernization: The First CT-153 Juno Acceptance

In a significant development for the Royal Canadian Air Force (RCAF), the manufacturing acceptance of the first CT-153 Juno has been officially completed. This event, taking place in October 2025 at the Airbus Helicopters facility in Donauwörth, Germany, marks a pivotal moment for Canada’s Future Aircrew Training (FAcT) program. Representatives from SkyAlyne, the RCAF, and the Government of Canada were present to oversee the successful inspection of the aircraft, which serves as the initial airframe in a fleet of 19 ordered helicopters.

The acceptance of this aircraft, based on the widely respected Airbus H135, signals the transition from procurement planning to tangible fleet modernization. While the helicopter has been physically assembled and approved in Germany, its journey is far from over. The aircraft is now scheduled for transport to Canada, where it will undergo essential modifications to meet the specific requirements of Canadian military training. This logistical process highlights the global nature of modern defense procurement, blending European manufacturing with domestic customization.

This milestone is not merely about the acquisition of a single machine; it represents the commencement of a generational overhaul in how Canadian aircrew are trained. The FAcT program, a comprehensive 25-year initiative, aims to streamline and modernize pilot and aircrew training across the country. The successful acceptance of the first Juno demonstrates that the program is adhering to its timeline, with the first deliveries to the RCAF expected to commence in mid-2026.

From Germany to Fort Erie: The Path to Operational Readiness

The manufacturing acceptance in Donauwörth is the first of two major phases for the CT-153 Juno. Following its approval in Germany, the aircraft is being shipped to the Airbus Helicopters facility in Fort Erie, Ontario. This facility is designated as a Centre of Excellence and plays a critical role in the Canadian aerospace ecosystem. It is here that the “green” aircraft will be transformed into a fully operational military trainer tailored to the RCAF’s unique specifications.

Upon arrival in Fort Erie, the helicopter will undergo extensive completion work. This includes the installation of Canadian-developed avionics and specialized communication systems designed to interface with the RCAF’s broader training architecture. The involvement of Canadian engineering and manufacturing labor in this phase is a key component of the program’s economic benefit, ensuring that while the airframe is imported, significant value and intellectual property management remain within Canada. This approach secures sovereign capability over the long-term maintenance and evolution of the fleet.

Additionally, the Fort Erie team is tasked with applying the fleet’s distinct new livery. Dubbed “Reflect Forward,” the design pays homage to the history of the Commonwealth Air Training Plan with “Training Yellow,” while incorporating the dark blue of the modern RCAF and a red and white stripe symbolizing the Canadian flag. This visual identity serves to unify the training fleet under a single, cohesive aesthetic that honors the past while looking toward the future of Canadian aviation.

The transition to the CT-153 Juno introduces a twin-engine platform to initial rotary-wing training, significantly enhancing safety through redundancy and providing a more realistic preparation for frontline operations.

Technical Specifications and Training Capabilities

The CT-153 Juno is the Canadian military designation for the Airbus H135, a market-leading light twin-engine helicopter known for its versatility and reliability. Powering this platform are two Pratt & Whitney Canada PW206B3 engines, equipped with Full Authority Digital Engine Control (FADEC). The shift from legacy single-engine trainers to a twin-engine platform is a strategic move to improve safety margins for student pilots and instructors, particularly during simulated emergency procedures.

A standout feature of the Juno is its Helionix avionics suite. This glass cockpit system is designed to reduce pilot workload and enhance situational awareness, mirroring the technology found in Canada’s frontline operational fleets, such as the CH-148 Cyclone and CH-147F Chinook. By training on the Helionix system from the outset, students will face a smoother transition to complex operational aircraft, reducing the training gap between basic instruction and mission-ready deployment.

The aircraft will also receive Supplemental Type Certificates (STCs) developed specifically for the FAcT program. These modifications include cockpit developments tailored to the RCAF curriculum, ensuring that every switch, screen, and control supports the pedagogical goals of the training system. This level of customization ensures that the hardware and the courseware are perfectly aligned, creating a seamless learning environment for the next generation of pilots.

The Strategic Scope of the FAcT Program

The delivery of the CT-153 Juno is a sub-component of the massive Future Aircrew Training (FAcT) program, valued at approximately $11.2 billion CAD over 25 years. The prime contractor, SkyAlyne, is a joint venture between two Canadian aviation giants, CAE and KF Aerospace. Their mandate is to consolidate three separate legacy training programs into a single, streamlined entity that covers all pilot, Air Combat Systems Officer (ACSO), and Airborne Electronic Sensor Operator (AES Op) training.

We observe that the FAcT program represents a shift toward a managed service model, where industry partners handle the assets and facilities while the RCAF retains command over the training standards and output. This partnership allows the military to focus on operations and tactics while leveraging the efficiencies of the private sector for fleet management and maintenance. The arrival of the Juno is the first tangible proof of this new arrangement in action.

Looking ahead, the timeline remains aggressive but achievable. With the first production test flights having occurred in September 2025 and manufacturing acceptance in October, the program is on track for the mid-2026 delivery target. As these aircraft enter service, they will replace aging legacy fleets, providing a modern, data-driven training environment that is expected to increase the throughput and quality of aircrew production for decades to come.

Conclusion

The manufacturing acceptance of the first CT-153 Juno is a definitive step forward for the Royal Canadian Air Force and the FAcT program. It validates the collaborative efforts between SkyAlyne, Airbus, and the Canadian government to deliver a modern, safe, and capable training platform. As the aircraft moves to Ontario for final completion, the focus shifts to the integration of Canadian-specific systems that will define the training experience for future aircrew.

Ultimately, this event underscores the importance of modernizing military infrastructure to meet contemporary threats and operational demands. By investing in twin-engine, glass-cockpit helicopters, Canada is ensuring that its pilots are trained on equipment that matches the sophistication of the aircraft they will eventually fly in service to the nation. The successful fielding of the Juno will likely serve as a benchmark for the remaining phases of the FAcT program.

FAQ

What is the CT-153 Juno?
The CT-153 Juno is the Royal Canadian Air Force’s designation for the Airbus H135 helicopter. It is a twin-engine aircraft selected as the primary rotary-wing trainer for the Future Aircrew Training (FAcT) program.

When will the CT-153 Juno enter service?
Following its manufacturing acceptance in late 2025 and subsequent completion work in Canada, the first deliveries to the RCAF are scheduled to begin in mid-2026.

What is the FAcT program?
The Future Aircrew Training (FAcT) program is a 25-year, $11.2 billion initiative to renew and consolidate aircrew training for the RCAF. It is managed by SkyAlyne, a partnership between CAE and KF Aerospace.

Why is the shift to a twin-engine trainer significant?
Moving to a twin-engine platform like the Juno increases safety by providing redundancy in case of engine failure. It also better prepares students for operational RCAF helicopters, which are predominantly multi-engine aircraft.

Sources

• Canadian Defence Review

Volatus Aerospace Secures $26.4 Million to Accelerate Defense Manufacturing Capabilities

On November 26, 2025, Volatus Aerospace Inc. officially closed a significant financing package totaling approximately $26.4 million CAD. This transaction marks a pivotal moment for the company as it transitions from a primary focus on drones services to becoming a large-scale manufacturer of defense-grade unmanned aerial systems. The capital injection is composed of a bought deal public offering and a concurrent non-brokered private placement, signaling strong market confidence in the company’s strategic direction.

The timing of this financing aligns with a broader geopolitical shift toward “sovereign supply chains.” As Western nations and NATO allies seek to reduce reliance on foreign-made drone technologies, specifically those originating from China, companies like Volatus are positioning themselves to fill the production gap. The funds raised are explicitly earmarked to operationalize the company’s ambitious expansion plans, centered around a new manufacturing hub in Quebec.

This financial milestone is not merely a balance sheet adjustment; it represents the fuel required to execute a high-stakes pivot. By securing this capital, Volatus aims to cement its status as a key player in the global defense sector, moving beyond pilot programs and small-batch sales into serial production of intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance (ISR) technologies.

Breakdown of the Financial Transaction

The total gross proceeds of $26,391,500 CAD were raised through a dual-structure approach. The majority of the funds came via a bought deal public offering, led by Stifel Nicolaus Canada Inc., alongside a syndicate of underwriters including Ventum Financial Corp., Canaccord Genuity Corp., and Haywood Securities Inc. This portion of the deal involved the issuance of approximately 38.35 million units at a price of $0.60 per unit, a figure that includes the full exercise of the over-allotment option by the underwriters.

Strategic Investment from Unusual Machines

A critical component of this financing round was the non-brokered private placement, which raised additional capital through the sale of roughly 5.63 million units at the same issue price of $0.60. Notably, this tranche included a strategic investment from Unusual Machines, Inc. (NYSE: UMAC), a United States-based drone component manufacturer. Unusual Machines invested approximately $3.38 million CAD, underscoring a growing cross-border collaboration intended to strengthen North American drone defense capabilities.

This partnership is indicative of a larger trend where allied nations are consolidating resources to build compliant drone ecosystems. Unusual Machines has been actively building what some analysts describe as a “drone treasury,” investing in allied manufacturers to create an integrated supply-chain that complies with the U.S. National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA). For Volatus, having a U.S. strategic partner validates its technology and opens potential pathways into the lucrative American defense market.

The structure of the deal suggests that institutional and strategic investors see long-term value in the company’s manufacturing pivot. While public offerings provide necessary liquidity, the inclusion of a strategic partner like Unusual Machines often brings technical synergies and market access that pure financial investment cannot offer.

“By combining an Innovation Centre for rapid integration and qualification with a dedicated Manufacturing Hub for serial production, Mirabel will become our anchor for Canadian-made, defence-grade drones.” — Glen Lynch, CEO of Volatus Aerospace.

The Mirabel Manufacturing Hub: A Strategic Pivot

The primary allocation of the newly raised funds is the development and operationalization of the Mirabel Manufacturing Hub. Located at the Montréal–Mirabel International Airport (YMX), this 200,000-square-foot facility is designed to be the cornerstone of the company’s future operations. The facility is supported by Aéroports de Montréal and is intended to facilitate the mass production of proprietary ISR drones as well as licensed manufacturing for partner systems.

From Services to Serial Production

Historically, Volatus Aerospace has been recognized for its service-based operations, such as pipeline inspections and cargo logistics. However, the margins and scalability in manufacturing, particularly for the defense sector, present a different economic profile. The shift to serial production allows the company to fulfill larger contracts, such as the recent $1.7 million agreement to supply tactical ISR drones to a NATO member nation. The Mirabel facility provides the physical capacity to execute these types of contracts at scale.

The transition also addresses a critical bottleneck in the current market: the lack of domestic production capacity for “dual-use” technologies. These are systems that serve both civilian and military purposes. By controlling the manufacturing process domestically, Volatus mitigates the geopolitical risks associated with international supply chains, a key selling point for government and defense clients.

Furthermore, the company plans to utilize a portion of the proceeds for research and development. This includes accelerating the development of new technologies and potentially funding future acquisitions. The recent acquisition of Caliburn Holdings, which added battle-proven fixed-wing UAV designs to the Volatus portfolio, serves as a precedent for how the company intends to grow its intellectual property and product offerings.

Financial Context and Market Performance

Analyzing the company’s recent financial-results provides necessary context for this financing round. In the second quarter of 2025, Volatus reported revenue of $10.6 million, representing a 49% increase year-over-year. This growth was largely driven by a 114% surge in equipment sales, validating the demand for its hardware. While the company remains in a loss-making position as it scales, it reported an 85% improvement in its Adjusted EBITDA loss year-over-year, signaling improved operational efficiency.

Transparency and Accounting Adjustments

Investors should also note the recent restatement of the company’s Q2 financials. In early November 2025, Volatus issued a correction regarding a $2.23 million non-cash accounting adjustment related to debt restructuring. It is important to clarify that this was a technical accounting correction with no impact on the company’s revenue, cash position, or gross margins. CFO Abhinav Singhvi described the move as a prudent step to strengthen the balance sheet, ensuring that financial reporting aligns strictly with accounting standards.

Despite some volatility in the stock price leading up to the deal, a common occurrence when equity dilution is anticipated, the stock has shown significant appreciation on an annual basis. The market appears to be pricing in the potential upside of the defense contracts and the successful operationalization of the Mirabel facility, balancing these against the execution risks inherent in such a large-scale expansion.

Concluding Section

The closing of this $26.4 million financing round represents a definitive step for Volatus Aerospace as it evolves from a drone services provider into a defense manufacturing entity. With the capital now secured, the focus shifts to execution: bringing the Mirabel Manufacturing Hub online and delivering on the growing demand for sovereign, NATO-compliant drone systems.

As geopolitical tensions continue to drive the need for secure, domestic defense technologies, Volatus is well-positioned to capitalize on these trends. The strategic backing of Unusual Machines and the support of major underwriters suggest that the industry views this pivot not just as a possibility, but as a necessary evolution in the North-American aerospace sector.

FAQ

Question: What was the total amount raised in this transaction?
Answer: Volatus Aerospace raised a total of $26,391,500 CAD through a combination of a bought deal public offering and a non-brokered private placement.

Question: What is the primary use of the funds?
Answer: The capital is primarily allocated for the construction and operationalization of the Mirabel Manufacturing Hub, a 200,000-square-foot facility in Quebec designed for the mass production of defense-grade drones.

Question: Who is the strategic investor mentioned in the deal?
Answer: Unusual Machines, Inc. (NYSE: UMAC), a U.S.-based drone component manufacturer, invested approximately $3.38 million CAD as part of the private placement.

Sources

• GlobeNewswire