Argentine Navy to Acquire Four AW109M Helicopters for Offshore Patrol Vessels
The Argentine Navy will acquire four AW109M helicopters following presidential decree 924/2025, which allows a contract with Crédit Agricole Corporate & Investment Bank for €71.7 million. This financing covers the purchase and associated services, enabling the Navy to proceed with its long-planned program.
The project received clearance from national economic agencies, with the Central Bank of Argentina validating its macroeconomic impact. The Defense Ministry will finalize the contract with Leonardo Helicopters after a letter of intent signed in autumn 2023.
The helicopters will be deployed mainly from four OPV 87 offshore patrol vessels, built by Kership, which are essential for Argentina's maritime surveillance. The AW109M is a lightweight, dual-engine helicopter suited for various missions, enhancing operational capabilities for tasks such as maritime surveillance and search and rescue. The contract will clarify production and delivery timelines.
