Leonardo, PT ESystem Solution and the Ministry of Defence of the Republic of Indonesia sign letter of intent for AW149 helicopters to meet naval rotorcraft requirements

Rome, 21 July 2026 – Leonardo, PT ESystem Solutions and the Ministry of Defence of the Republic of Indonesia (MoD) today announced the signing of a Letter of Intent (LOI) for the supply and support of naval helicopters for the Indonesian Navy. The agreement also includes plans to develop local technical assistance, maintenance, completion and training capabilities.

If followed by a contract, this could lead to the supply of AW149 helicopters for search and rescue and disaster relief, for both land-based and embarked operations. The programme supports Indonesia’s naval modernisation programme, strengthening its emergency response capabilities. It would also further expand the presence of Leonardo in the Indonesian helicopter market particularly in rescue, law enforcement and passenger transport requirements.

The LOI highlights the growing partnership between Leonardo and PT ESystem Solutions, following the launch of the Indonesia’s M-346 F Block 20 light fighter programme. It shows continued confidence by Indonesia’s MoD in Leonardo’s products and technologies as well as in the company’s commitment to providing a major contribution to the growth of the country’s national aerospace and defence industry.

The AW149 is a latest generation multirole medium weight military helicopter designed to meet the most demanding needs of armed forces and is in service internationally to perform a wide range of mission including tactical transport, utility, close support, MEDEVAC/CASEVAC, SAR and Combat Search and Rescue. Its selection in Indonesia would further strengthen its presence in Southeast Asia.

file photo courtesy Leonardo