The A109M light, twin-engine multipurpose helicopter has been developed by AgustaWestland in Italy. The A109M is a military version of the A109 Power family of civil helicopters, which are available in VIP/corporate, EMS emergency services and law enforcement versions. Around 300 A109 Power helicopters have been ordered since the model’s entry into service in 1996.
The A109M features high engine power with FADEC (Full Authority Electronic Control) management, composite rotor head and blades, advanced avionics and cockpit integration. The helicopter is operated by a crew of one or two. The cabin can be fitted with a single or two stretcher installation for casualty evacuation. The maximum number of seats on board is eight.
The A109 was originally developed as an ambulance and rescue helicopter to operate in the mountainous regions of Switzerland. The helicopter can fly from critically situated landing spots in adverse climates and from roof helipads in densely populated areas.
The A109M can carry out various missions and operations in hot temperatures and high altitudes.
Missions include observation and reconnaissance, armed escort, search and rescue, troop / cargo transport, casualty evacuation, liaison and training.
Helicopter cockpit design
The cockpit has an ergonomic instrument panel with provision for role and mission dedicated display and control instrumentation. The cockpit can be night vision goggle compatible. The pilot has a suite of vision equipment comprising a roof mounted gyrostabilised sight, forward looking infrared and television sensors and night vision goggles.
The Al09M’s low vibration and high stability characteristics provide an platform for target detection and target tracking which maximises the effectiveness of the airborne antitank system. The helicopter can be fitted with the Helitow anti-tank missile system which has two TOW missile launchers with two or four missiles each launcher.
A109M light helicopter
