Greece to boost emergency response capabilities with three AW139 helicopters

The Hellenic Ministry of Climate Crisis and Civil Protection is introducing three Leonardo AW139 intermediate twin-engine helicopters to boost its emergency response capabilities. Under the recently signed contract, the new aircraft are expected to be delivered in 2026, with two units dedicated to healthcare missions and disaster relief, and one unit to be used for transportation of the crisis management teams. The order also includes a comprehensive technical, logistical support, and training package. The AW139s will be operated by the Fire Service on behalf of the Ministry from a base in Attica.

This emergency response helicopter program was funded through the European Union’s NextGenerationEU scheme under the National Recovery and Resilience Plan ‘Greece 2.0’. The program will enable Greece to enhance disaster relief operations across the nation, which face the unique operational challenges posed by the complex topography and environmental conditions of the Hellenic territory, spanning the shores of the Mediterranean and the peaks of Mount Olympus. The AW139 will join two AW109 Trekker light twins already in operation supporting the national healthcare service.

The AW139s will feature a flexible and modular cabin layout able to host a mix of up to five passengers and two stretchers. The cabin can quickly and easily be converted, providing the possibility of up to 14 passengers, if required, for the deployment of the incident management team.

The Greek parliament recently approved the purchase of 35 Sikorsky UH-60M Black Hawks from the USA.