Grooming the TrekkerM for Poland
September 10, 2024
At this year’s MSPO international defence industry exhibition at Kielce, Poland, Leonardo presented its proposed military rotorcraft training capability, exhibiting an AW109 TrekkerM helicopter and a Virtual Extended Reality (VxR) simulator as part of a complete training curriculum.
The Polish MoD is currently undertaking a major rotary-wing procurement programme, with four AW101 Merlins for the Navy, eight S-70i Black Hawks, and 32 AW149s, and most recently 96 AH-64E Apaches. But the Polish Air Force today operates legacy Mil Mi-2 ‘Hoplites’ augmenting PZL SW-4 Puszczyk (Tawny Owl) helicopters in the training role. There is thus an urgent need for a modernized training system for Poland’s helicopter aircrew.
On 16 January 2024, the Polish Armament Agency announced that a market research consultation would be launched in support of the proposed acquisition of an integrated helicopter pilots training system. This was to include 24 helicopters (which were to be capable of weapons training), a comprehensive training system, including simulators and part task trainers, together with logistics, material and training support packages.
The AW109 TrekkerM is the military version of the proven AW109 Trekker, a three-tonne class light combat-ready military helicopter well suited to the advanced training role, with advanced digital avionics, a robust airframe, a spacious cabin, and best-in-class performance.
The AW109 TrekkerM is claimed to deliver rugged and reliable capability combined with outstanding mission flexibility, and high performance.
The low workload single/dual-pilot VFR/IFR integrated glass cockpit features advanced avionics and systems which together deliver excellent situational awareness, including a Synthetic Vision System (SVS), and an embedded Helicopter Terrain Avoidance Warning System (HTAWS).
Optional mission equipment includes a Defensive Aids Suite (DAS), an Electro-Optical/Infrared (EO/IR) sensor, Forward-Looking Infrared (FLIR), a rescue hoist, searchlight, loudspeakers, and cargo hook. A comprehensive suite of internal and external weapons can also be carried.
The VxR simulator combines high fidelity with outstanding cost-effectiveness due to its reduced footprint and infrastructure requirements, as well as ease of transport and relocation.
Competitors to the Leonardo AW109 include the Airbus Helicopters H145M, and the Bell 407.
