Leonardo Helicopters is set to launch a new chapter in its global operations by establishing a local assembly line for the AW139 helicopter in Algeria. This development comes after the company secured orders from the Algerian military, signaling a deepening partnership between Leonardo and the North African nation. The joint venture with the Algerian National Defense Ministry has received a contract for seven AW139 twin-engine medium helicopters, which will be produced at a newly created facility at Ain Arnat Airport in Setif province.
The agreement marks a significant milestone, as it initiates the start-up process for the production line. Once operational, the facility is expected to deliver fully assembled AW139s within one to two years, while also enhancing Algeria’s capabilities in both assembly and maintenance of rotorcraft. Although the final customer for these helicopters remains undisclosed, the assembly kits will be supplied by Leonardo’s Verigiate facility near Milan, ensuring continuity with the company’s established manufacturing standards.
The Ain Arnat plant holds broader potential beyond meeting Algeria’s domestic needs. Company officials have indicated that the site could eventually produce helicopters for export to a select group of countries, expanding its regional influence. This facility will be only the second AW139 assembly line outside Italy, joining an existing operation in Philadelphia. In addition to the AW139, the Algerian plant is slated to manufacture at least two other Leonardo helicopter models, further diversifying its output.
This initiative builds on a 2016 agreement between Leonardo and the Algerian government, which aimed to bolster the country’s industrial capabilities. Originally intended to begin production in 2021, the project faced delays due to the COVID-19 pandemic but is now moving forward. The assembly line’s establishment reflects a long-standing relationship with Algeria, which has been a key customer for Leonardo since the late 2000s. Over that period, the country has acquired approximately 70-80 helicopters, including AW139s, AW119s, AW101s, and Super Lynx maritime models, to modernize its naval air arm and civil protection services.
The AW139 itself is a cornerstone of Leonardo’s portfolio, renowned as a versatile and highly successful medium-sized twin-engine helicopter. With over 1,200 units in operation worldwide and more than 4.5 million flight hours logged, it has earned a strong reputation among military and civilian operators alike. The helicopter’s origins trace back to a joint venture between Agusta and Bell Helicopter, initially designated as the AB139. After Bell’s exit, AgustaWestland—now Leonardo—took the lead, achieving the AW139’s first flight in 2001 and its formal introduction in 2003.
Production has since expanded to multiple sites, including Italy, the United States, Poland, and Russia, cementing its status as a global leader in its class. The AW139 serves a wide array of roles, from military missions and corporate transport to firefighting, law enforcement, search and rescue, and offshore operations. Variants like the militarized AW139M, equipped with advanced sensors, self-protection systems, and optional armament, cater to specialized operational demands.
The new assembly line in Algeria represents a strategic move for both Leonardo and the Algerian military. For Leonardo, it strengthens its presence in the African market and diversifies its production network.
In Africa, the helicopter type has been sold to Algeria, Angola, Egypt, Nigeria, Ivory Coast, Libya, Kenya, and Morocco.
Furthermore, the Nigerian Navy is launch customer for Caverton Aviation’s AW-139 Full Flight Simulator in Africa.
For Algeria, it not only bolsters its rotorcraft fleet but also fosters local industrial growth and technical expertise. As the Ain Arnat facility takes shape, it promises to enhance the country’s defense and security capabilities while potentially positioning Algeria as a regional hub for helicopter assembly and maintenance.