Leonardo S.p.A. is a global leader in aerospace, defense, and security, headquartered in Italy. We provide cutting-edge technological solutions across helicopters, aircraft, aerostructures, electronics, cyber security, and space, contributing to international peace and order.

With a strong presence in Korea for over 30 years, Leonardo has built a deep-rooted partnership through major defense programs, including the Lynx and AW159 Wildcat. Beyond being a supplier, Leonardo is committed to fostering industrial collaboration and localization in Korea, aiming to be the most reliable strategic partner in safeguarding the nation's maritime security and interests.

Main Theme

"Future-Ready Maritime Security: Integrated Solutions for Blue Water Safety"

Core Competencies & Exhibition Highlights

At this exhibition, Leonardo presents its high-performance helicopter lineup—including the AW139, AW159, AW169, and AW189—alongside the ATR-72 MP (Maritime Patrol) and the innovative AW609 tiltrotor. The core competency we aim to highlight is our 'Mission-Tailored Integrated Platforms.'

AW159: Maritime Operational Expertise

Building on its proven performance in Anti-Submarine Warfare (ASW) and Anti-Surface Warfare (ASuW), the AW159 features a design optimized for ship-borne operations. It delivers unrivaled detection capabilities through its state-of-the-art AESA radar.

▼ AW159 Multi-Role Helicopter

The ATR-72 MP is a low-cost, high-efficiency Maritime Patrol Aircraft (MPA). With its long-endurance capabilities and multi-purpose sensor integration, it serves as the ideal solution to maximize the Coast Guard’s surveillance power across extensive Exclusive Economic Zones (EEZ).

▼ ATR-72MM

AW139: The Korea Coast Guard’s ‘Best Seller’

Currently operational with the Korea Coast Guard (KCG) for Search and Rescue (SAR) missions, the AW139 is recognized as the most successful model in its class globally. Thanks to its exceptional power, safety, and spacious cabin, it has earned the reputation of a "dream helicopter"—becoming the most trusted asset among the pilots and rescue crews who perform life-saving missions in the field.

▼ AW139

AW189: Next-Generation Heavy Maritime Rescue Helicopter

The AW189, currently in production to meet the specific requirements of the KCG, is a ‘Super-medium’ class helicopter specialized for high-precision rescue and long-range search operations. Once fully deployed, it will serve as a cornerstone of the KCG’s fleet—patrolling further and staying on station longer—to elevate large-scale disaster response capabilities to a new dimension.

▼ AW189

Maritime operations present challenges on a completely different scale compared to land-based missions. To land and take off from narrow, constantly moving ship decks, the dynamic stability of the aircraft is an absolute necessity.

However, the single most critical factor is "Full Marinization". Salt-laden sea air causes catastrophic corrosion to the airframe, engines, and precision components. When land-based helicopters are simply modified for maritime use, "invisible corrosion" inevitably progresses, creating a severe risk of structural failure and loss of life.

Drawing on decades of field-proven data from the Lynx and AW159, Leonardo integrates specialized corrosion-resistant alloys, advanced sealing technologies, and salt-blocking coatings from the very first design phase. The helicopters we produce are more than just a means of transport; they are the "safest maritime workplace", engineered to protect the lives of rescue crews and guarantee mission success even in the harshest salt-spray environments.

We believe the significant popularity of Leonardo helicopters in the Korean market stems from the combination of "Overwhelming Performance" and "Proven Versatility".

First, models like the AW139 boast the largest cabin space and most powerful engine output in their class. This provides optimal conditions for performing Search and Rescue (SAR), Emergency Medical Services (EMS), and firefighting missions in Korea’s demanding environment, characterized by rugged terrain and unpredictable weather.

Second is Leonardo’s proprietary "Integrated Digital Avionics" technology. Our state-of-the-art avionics systems drastically reduce pilot workload, enabling safe and precision-driven mission execution even in harsh maritime or nighttime conditions.

Finally, we have proven our "Operational Maintenance Efficiency" through close technical cooperation with Korean operating agencies and a responsive spare parts supply chain. We are not just selling aircraft; we are fulfilling our role as the most reliable partner for South Korea’s public safety.