The Armed Forces of Malta (AFM) have signed two major procurement contracts aimed at further enhancing the operational capabilities and standardisation of the Air Wing across both rotary and fixed-wing platforms.
In an agreement with Leonardo Helicopters, the AFM will acquire an additional AW139 helicopter, increasing the Air Wing’s AW139 fleet to four aircraft. This acquisition forms part of the ongoing standardisation of the helicopter fleet and will significantly strengthen the Force’s ability to carry out critical missions, including border control, surveillance, maritime law enforcement, and search and rescue operations.
The additional AW139 will enable the Air Wing to better sustain continuous operational readiness and maintain the high operational tempo required to safeguard security and safety in the Central Mediterranean.
Leonardo Helicopters, which has supported the Armed Forces of Malta for over a decade, has reaffirmed its commitment to assisting the continued development and standardisation of the Force.
In a separate contract, the Armed Forces of Malta have also signed an agreement with Aerodata AG for the procurement of a new King Air Maritime Patrol Aircraft. This acquisition supports the ongoing standardisation of the Air Wing’s fixed-wing fleet and will bring the number of King Air aircraft in service to four.
The new aircraft will be primarily employed in border control, maritime surveillance, maritime law enforcement, and search and rescue missions. Its introduction will further enhance the Air Wing’s capacity to meet increasing operational demands while strengthening security and safety across the Central Mediterranean.
Aerodata AG, a long-standing partner of the Armed Forces of Malta for more than ten years, has reaffirmed its commitment to supporting the continued modernisation and operational effectiveness of the Force.
