View source for AgustaWestland AW159 Wildcat

{{short description|Improved series of the Westland Super Lynx military helicopter}}
{{Use dmy dates|date=September 2019}}
<!-- This article is a part of [[Wikipedia:WikiProject Aircraft]]. Please see [[Wikipedia:WikiProject Aircraft/page content]] for recommended layout, and guidelines. -->
{|{{Infobox aircraft begin
|name= AW159 Wildcat
|image= File:Royal Navy Wildcat Helicopter MOD 45158434.jpg
|caption= Wildcat HMA2 naval variant in 2013
}}{{Infobox aircraft type
|type= [[Utility helicopter|Utility]], [[search and rescue|SAR]] and [[Anti-surface warfare|ASuW]] helicopter
|national origin= [[United Kingdom]], [[Italy]]
|manufacturer= {{Unbulleted list|[[AgustaWestland]]|[[Leonardo (company)|Leonardo]]}}
|designer=
|first flight= 12 November 2009<ref name="ff" />
|introduced= 29 August 2014 (AH1)<ref name=Desider_Oct2014/>
|retired=
|status= In service
|primary user= [[British Army]]
|more users= {{Unbulleted list|[[Royal Navy]]|[[Republic of Korea Navy]]|[[Philippine Navy]]}}<!-- Limited to THREE (3) "more users" here (4 total users).  List users with {{plainlist}} or {{unbulleted list}}. -->
|produced= 2009–present
|number built=
|unit cost=
|developed from= [[Westland Lynx|Westland Super Lynx]]
|variants with their own articles=
}}
|}
The '''AgustaWestland AW159 Wildcat''' (previously called the '''Future Lynx''' and '''Lynx Wildcat''') is a military helicopter, developed by the British-Italian helicopter manufacturer [[AgustaWestland]], and later marketed by the Italian aerospace company [[Leonardo (company)|Leonardo]]. It is an improved version of the [[Westland Lynx|Westland Super Lynx]] designed to serve in the [[Utility helicopter|battlefield utility]], [[search and rescue]], [[aerial reconnaissance]], [[anti-submarine warfare]] (ASW), [[anti-surface warfare]] (ASuW), [[utility aircraft|utility]], [[command and control]], and [[Military transport aircraft#Transport helicopters|troop transport]] duties.<ref name="into manuf"/>
Development commenced during the early 2000s under the name ''Future Lynx'' to replace the existing Lynx helicopters then operated by both the [[Royal Navy]] and [[British Army]]. Refurbishment and upgrading of the existing first generation Lynx airframes was evaluated but found to be uneconomical in comparison to producing a new generation airframe. Various new electronics and avionics systems were incorporated, including a [[glass cockpit]], onboard integrated digital open systems architecture, [[Bowman (communications system)|Bowman]] communications system, and various mission systems. The Wildcat also features numerous airframe improvements, such as the redesigned tail rotor and nose, greater structural strength, and a longer lifespan of 12,000 flight hours. New munitions, such as the [[Martlet (missile)|Martlet]] air-to-surface missile and the [[Sea Venom (missile)|Sea Venom]] anti-ship missile, were also integrated.
The Wildcat performed its [[maiden flight]] on 12 November 2009. On 29 August 2014, the ''Wildcat AH1'' formally entered service with the [[Army Air Corps (United Kingdom)|Army Air Corps]]; in early 2015, the [[Fleet Air Arm]]'s first ''Wildcat HMA2'' commenced its initial operational deployment at sea. Within five years, both services had withdrawn the last Lynx helicopters in favour of the Wildcat.<ref>[https://www.flightglobal.com/news/articles/royal-navy-lynx-hma8-fleet-bows-out-of-service-435293/ "Royal Navy Lynx HMA8 fleet bows out of service"] {{Webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170317193238/https://www.flightglobal.com/news/articles/royal-navy-lynx-hma8-fleet-bows-out-of-service-435293/ |date=17 March 2017}}. Flight Global</ref><ref>{{cite news |last=Rankin |first=Mel |title=Lynx helicopter departs RNAS Yeovilton for its final flight |date=24 June 2016 |url=http://www.somersetlive.co.uk/lynx-helicopter-departs-rnas-yeovilton-for-the-last-time/story-29441341-detail/story.html |access-date=11 March 2017 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160625131346/http://www.somersetlive.co.uk/lynx-helicopter-departs-rnas-yeovilton-for-the-last-time/story-29441341-detail/story.html |archive-date=25 June 2016}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web|url=http://www.janes.com/article/73702/uk-reorganises-special-forces-aviation|title=UK reorganises special forces aviation|last=Ripley|first=Tim|date=12 September 2017|website=Jane's 360|access-date=13 February 2018|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20171104205258/http://www.janes.com/article/73702/uk-reorganises-special-forces-aviation|archive-date=4 November 2017|url-status=dead}}</ref> The rotorcraft is also marketed towards export customers; overseas operators include the [[Republic of Korea Navy]] and the [[Philippine Navy]].
==Development==
===Background===
In 1995, the British Government announced that the [[Royal Navy]]'s existing [[Westland Lynx]] helicopters were to be replaced; at that point, the service was intended to operate an all-[[AgustaWestland AW101|Merlin]] fleet.<ref>{{cite journal |title= The Maritime helicopter |first= Richard |last= Cobbold |journal= Chief of the Defence Staff |volume= 139 |issue= 2 |date= April 1994 |pages= 56–63 |doi=10.1080/03071849408445805}}</ref> Despite this stated intent, [[Westland Helicopters]] continued to hold talks with the [[Ministry of Defence (United Kingdom)|Ministry of Defence]] (MOD) to find a future role for the type during the late 1990s; the firm issued multiple proposals to either extend the life of the existing Super Lynx through upgrade programmes or more ambitious remanufacturing programmes incorporating varying degrees of new components.<ref>Derby, Paul. [https://www.flightglobal.com/news/articles/gkn-westland-offers-uk-ministry-of-defence-upgrade-f-62265/ "GKN Westland offers UK Ministry of Defence upgrade for Lynx."] {{Webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160701205256/https://www.flightglobal.com/news/articles/gkn-westland-offers-uk-ministry-of-defence-upgrade-f-62265/ |date=1 July 2016 }} ''Flight International'', 22 February 2000.</ref> In 2002, the ''Future Lynx'' project originated in two studies to determine the suitability of a derivative of the [[Super Lynx]] 300 to replace the existing Lynx helicopters of the [[Royal Navy]] and [[British Army]]. These requirements were known as the Surface Combatant Maritime Rotorcraft (SCMR) and Battlefield Light Utility Helicopter (BLUH) programmes, respectively.<ref name="dpa-2002">{{cite web |title= Navy may get new version of battle-proven Lynx helicopter |url= http://www.mod.uk/dpa/news/pn2002/jul02/lynx.htm |work= webarchive.nationalarchives.gov.uk |publisher= [[The National Archives (United Kingdom)|The National Archives]] |access-date= 20 September 2010 |archive-url= https://web.archive.org/web/20121004142703/http://www.mod.uk/dpa/news/pn2002/jul02/lynx.htm |archive-date= 4 October 2012 |date= 22 July 2002 |url-status= live }}</ref>
In July 2002, AgustaWestland received a contract to conduct a formal assessment phase of the Future Lynx.<ref name="concept cockpit">Penney, Stewart. [https://www.flightglobal.com/news/articles/westland-unveils-cockpit-concept-for-lynx-rebuild-164299/ "Westland unveils cockpit concept for Lynx rebuild."] {{Webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160701223654/https://www.flightglobal.com/news/articles/westland-unveils-cockpit-concept-for-lynx-rebuild-164299/ |date=1 July 2016 }} ''Flight International'', 15 April 2003.</ref> On 22 July 2002, a collaboration agreement was signed between AgustaWestland and [[Thales Group]], under which Thales was assigned development responsibility for the programme's core avionics, including communications, navigation, and flight management electronics;<ref>[https://www.flightglobal.com/news/articles/thales-joins-future-lynx-programme-151858/ "Thales joins Future Lynx programme."] {{Webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160702000234/https://www.flightglobal.com/news/articles/thales-joins-future-lynx-programme-151858/ |date=2 July 2016 }} ''Flight International'', 22 July 2002.</ref> that same day, additional MOD funding for the fledgling Future Lynx programme was announced as having been allocated.<ref>[https://www.flightglobal.com/news/articles/agustawestland-sets-its-sights-on-lynx-deals-151855/ "AgustaWestland sets its sights on Lynx deals."] {{Webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160701205819/https://www.flightglobal.com/news/articles/agustawestland-sets-its-sights-on-lynx-deals-151855/ |date=1 July 2016 }} ''Flight International'', 22 July 2002.</ref> By April 2003, the in-service dates for the BLUH and SCMR programmes were reported as being April 2007 and April 2008 respectively.<ref name="concept cockpit"/> Early on, AgustaWestland elected to adopt a [[glass cockpit]] incorporating electronics upgrades from the [[AgustaWestland AW101]] along with various airframe improvements, such as a redesigned tail rotor and nose along with increased use of machined components over fabricated counterparts.<ref name="concept cockpit"/><ref name="2005 strategy"/> By July 2004, the option of upgrading and remanufacturing the first generation Lynx had reportedly been judged to be uneconomical, and the BLUH programme of building a new generation airframe had been given prominence instead.<ref>[https://www.flightglobal.com/news/articles/military-pounces-as-westland-plans-upgrade-to-super-186265/ "Military pounces as Westland plans upgrade to Super Lynx."] {{Webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160803052429/https://www.flightglobal.com/news/articles/military-pounces-as-westland-plans-upgrade-to-super-186265/ |date=3 August 2016 }} ''Flight International'', 19 July 2004.</ref>
===Restructure===
In late 2004, the [[National Audit Office (United Kingdom)|National Audit Office]] (NAO) criticised the UK's existing helicopter fleet as being insufficient; concurrently, a major reorganisation of the MOD's procurement process subjected ongoing helicopter programmes to major restructuring.<ref name="fi proc revamp">[https://www.flightglobal.com/news/articles/uk-revamps-helicopter-strategy-188632/ "UK revamps helicopter strategy."] {{Webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160701210858/https://www.flightglobal.com/news/articles/uk-revamps-helicopter-strategy-188632/ |date=1 July 2016 }} ''Flight International'', 12 October 2004.</ref> The BLUH was reportedly deemed unaffordable, and it was speculated that a more modest sensor fit could be used, as well as the procurement of alternative platforms such as the [[NHIndustries NH90]], [[Eurocopter EC120]], or [[Eurocopter EC635]] instead of the Future Lynx.<ref name="fi proc revamp"/><ref>Hoyle, Craig. [https://www.flightglobal.com/news/articles/eads-offers-to-solve-uk-helicopter-crisis-190728/ "EADS offers to solve UK helicopter crisis."] {{Webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160701225121/https://www.flightglobal.com/news/articles/eads-offers-to-solve-uk-helicopter-crisis-190728/ |date=1 July 2016 }} ''Flight International'', 30 November 2004.</ref> Ultimately, the utility transport aspect of the BLUH requirement was de-emphasised and the programme renamed Battlefield Reconnaissance Helicopter (BRH).<ref name="army-tech">{{cite web |title=AW159 Lynx Wildcat Battlefield Reconnaissance Helicopter, United Kingdom |url=http://www.army-technology.com/projects/future-lynx/ |work=army-technology.com |publisher=Net Resources International |access-date=20 September 2010 |archive-url= https://web.archive.org/web/20100924191929/http://www.army-technology.com/projects/future-lynx/ |archive-date= 24 September 2010 |url-status= live}}</ref>{{Unreliable source?|reason=domain on WP:BLACKLIST |date=June 2016}}
In early 2005, the MOD was reportedly deliberating on whether to launch an open competition for other companies to bid to meet the BRH requirement, or to sole-source the contract from AgustaWestland to proceed with the Future Lynx.<ref>Hoyle, Craig. [https://www.flightglobal.com/news/articles/uk-to-decide-on-future-helicopters-195213/ "UK to decide on future helicopters."] {{Webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160701212035/https://www.flightglobal.com/news/articles/uk-to-decide-on-future-helicopters-195213/ |date=1 July 2016 }} ''Flight International'', 15 March 2005.</ref> In late March 2005, the MOD confirmed the Future Lynx as being its preferred option for its rotorcraft renewal programme, and was expected to place a non-competitive contract with AgustaWestland later that year.<ref>[https://www.flightglobal.com/news/articles/uk-commits-to-future-lynx-helicopter-195919/ "UK commits to Future Lynx helicopter."] {{Webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160701221213/https://www.flightglobal.com/news/articles/uk-commits-to-future-lynx-helicopter-195919/ |date=1 July 2016 }} ''Flight International'', 29 March 2005.</ref><ref>Trimble, Stephen. [https://www.flightglobal.com/news/articles/rivals-stay-quiet-over-uk-future-lynx-award-for-no-196136/ "Rivals stay quiet over UK Future Lynx award – for now."] {{Webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160701211935/https://www.flightglobal.com/news/articles/rivals-stay-quiet-over-uk-future-lynx-award-for-no-196136/ |date=1 July 2016 }} ''Flight International'', 5 April 2005.</ref> The signing of the contract was delayed to the following year, this was reportedly in part due to preparation and release of the 2005 [[Defence Industrial Strategy]], which supported the selection of the Future Lynx.<ref name="2005 strategy">[https://www.flightglobal.com/news/articles/uk-close-to-forging-future-lynx-deal-204287/ "UK close to forging Future Lynx deal."] {{Webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160701212628/https://www.flightglobal.com/news/articles/uk-close-to-forging-future-lynx-deal-204287/ |date=1 July 2016 }} ''Flight International'', 24 January 2006.</ref>
On 22 June 2006, the MOD awarded AgustaWestland a £1 billion contract for 70 Future Lynx helicopters as a commitment under the Strategic Partnering Arrangement with AgustaWestland. The programme envisaged providing the British Army with 40 aircraft and Royal Navy with 30, with an option for a further 10, split equally between Army and Navy.<ref>[http://www.agustawestland.com/node/3338 "AgustaWestland Awarded Future Lynx Contract"] {{Webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110707095544/http://www.agustawestland.com/node/3338 |date=7 July 2011 }}. AgustaWestland, 22 June 2006.</ref><ref>Morrison, Murdo. [https://www.flightglobal.com/news/articles/pictures-agustawestland-to-supply-70-future-lynx-he-207357/ "Pictures: AgustaWestland to supply 70 Future Lynx helicopters to UK."] {{Webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160803055955/https://www.flightglobal.com/news/articles/pictures-agustawestland-to-supply-70-future-lynx-he-207357/ |date=3 August 2016 }} ''Flight International'', 22 June 2006.</ref> By late 2007, the Future Lynx was scheduled to enter service with the British Army and Royal Navy in 2014 and 2015 respectively.<ref name="into manuf"/> In 2008, the cancellation of the Future Lynx programme has reportedly been under consideration.<ref name="export sought">Hoyle, Craig. [https://www.flightglobal.com/news/articles/agustawestland-seeks-export-buyers-for-aw159-lynx-w-325871/ "AgustaWestland seeks export buyers for AW159 'Lynx Wildcat'."] {{Webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160701210313/https://www.flightglobal.com/news/articles/agustawestland-seeks-export-buyers-for-aw159-lynx-w-325871/ |date=1 July 2016 }} ''Flight International'', 30 April 2009.</ref> In December 2008, the MOD announced that the main contract would be proceeding, only incurring a minor cut in numbers set to be procured, for a total of 62 rotorcraft.<ref>Hoyle, Craig. [http://www.flightglobal.com/articles/2008/12/12/320049/uk-cuts-future-lynx-deal-delays-new-carriers.html "UK cuts Future Lynx deal, delays new carriers"] {{Webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20081219130419/http://www.flightglobal.com/articles/2008/12/12/320049/uk-cuts-future-lynx-deal-delays-new-carriers.html |date=19 December 2008 }}. ''Flight International'', 12 December 2008.</ref>
===Into production===
In October 2007, following the passing of an interim critical design review, the Future Lynx programme proceeded to the manufacturing phase; the first metal was cut on the initial flight-test rotorcraft that same month.<ref name="into manuf">Hoyle, Craig. [https://www.flightglobal.com/news/articles/pictures-uks-future-lynx-programme-moves-into-manu-218000/ "Pictures: UK's Future Lynx programme moves into manufacturing phase"] {{Webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160701202612/https://www.flightglobal.com/news/articles/pictures-uks-future-lynx-programme-moves-into-manu-218000/ |date=1 July 2016 }}. ''Flight International'', 9 October 2007.</ref> In September 2008, the powerplant selected for the Future Lynx, the [[LHTEC T800|LHTEC CTS800-4N]], received [[European Aviation Safety Agency]] (EASA) type certification, enabling production deliveries to commence.<ref>Hoyle, Craig. [https://www.flightglobal.com/news/articles/future-lynx-engine-gets-easa-certification-316107/ "Future Lynx engine gets EASA certification."] {{Webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160701201749/https://www.flightglobal.com/news/articles/future-lynx-engine-gets-easa-certification-316107/ |date=1 July 2016 }} ''Flight International'', 19 September 2008.</ref> In November 2008, [[GKN]] delivered the first complete airframe to AgustaWestland; the new airframe reportedly had an 80 per cent lower part count than the earlier generation Lynx, which was achieved via the use of monolithic machine components.<ref>O'Keeffe, Niall. [https://www.flightglobal.com/news/articles/gkn-delivers-first-future-lynx-airframe-318878/ "GKN delivers first Future Lynx airframe."] {{Webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160701203148/https://www.flightglobal.com/news/articles/gkn-delivers-first-future-lynx-airframe-318878/ |date=1 July 2016 }} ''Flight International'', 17 November 2008.</ref>
[[File:AgustaWestland AW-159 Lynx Wildcat AH1 - Chris Lofting.jpg|thumb|left|Wildcat prototype ''ZZ401'', 2011]]
On 24 April 2009, it was announced that the Future Lynx had been designated ''AW159'' by AgustaWestland,<ref name="AW159_announce">[http://www.agustawestland.com/node/3556 "Future Lynx Is Now The AW159!"] {{Webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20100708004315/http://www.agustawestland.com/node/3556 |date=8 July 2010 }}. AgustaWestland, 24 April 2009.</ref><ref name="export sought"/> and would be known in British military service as the ''Wildcat''.<ref>[http://www.mod.uk/DefenceInternet/DefenceNews/EquipmentAndLogistics/NewWildcatHelicopterUnveiled.htm "New Wildcat helicopter unveiled"] {{Webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120718060717/http://www.mod.uk/DefenceInternet/DefenceNews/EquipmentAndLogistics/NewWildcatHelicopterUnveiled.htm |date=18 July 2012 }}. MOD, 11 July 2012.</ref> On 12 November 2009, the first Lynx Wildcat conducted the type's [[maiden flight]] from AgustaWestland's facility in [[Yeovil]], [[Somerset]].<ref name="ff" /> On 14 October 2010, the second AW159 performed its first flight;<ref>{{Cite web |url=http://www.agustawestland.com/news/second-aw159-lynx-wildcat-makes-its-first-flight |title=Second AW159 Lynx Wildcat Makes Its First Flight |access-date=15 October 2010 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110707100606/http://www.agustawestland.com/news/second-aw159-lynx-wildcat-makes-its-first-flight |archive-date=7 July 2011 |url-status=dead }}</ref> on 19 November 2010, a third Wildcat joined the flight test programme.<ref>Hoyle, Craig. [http://www.flightglobal.com/articles/2010/11/23/350070/picture-third-lynx-wildcat-joins-flight-test-fleet.html "Third Lynx Wildcat joins flight test fleet"] {{Webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20101127074518/http://www.flightglobal.com/articles/2010/11/23/350070/picture-third-lynx-wildcat-joins-flight-test-fleet.html |date=27 November 2010 }}. ''Flight International'', 23 November 2010.</ref>
In July 2009, it was announced that the cost of the Wildcat programme had increased to £1.7 billion.<ref>[https://archive.today/20130121081306/http://www.defencemanagement.com/news_story.asp?id=10178 "Wildcat helicopter row turns hostile."] ''defencemanagement.com'', 21 July 2009.</ref> In December 2011, it was reported that four additional Wildcats had been ordered for use by British special forces. These are to be joined by four from the current fleet on order, for a total of eight aircraft to operate as Wildcat Light Assault Helicopters.<ref>Chunter, Andrew. [https://archive.today/20120724121817/http://www.defensenews.com/article/20111221/DEFSECT01/112210306/ "UK Special Forces To Use Wildcat Variant".] ''Defense News'', 21 December 2011.</ref> Further orders for the Wildcat have since been placed by export customers, including the [[Republic of Korea Navy]] and the [[Philippine Navy]].
==Design==
[[File:Blackcat Formation - RAF Waddington. 05-7-2014 (14580899242).jpg|thumb|An AW159 Wildcat (lower) flying alongside a Lynx (upper), its predecessor, July 2014]]
The AW159 Wildcat is a further development of the [[Westland Lynx]].<ref name="rotor">Drwiega, Andrew. [http://www.aviationtoday.com/rw/military/attack/Is-AW159-Lynx-Wildcat-Wild-Enough_76117.html#.UWt9dYlwZMO "Is the AW159 Lynx Wildcat Wild Enough?."] {{Webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140408214255/http://www.aviationtoday.com/rw/military/attack/Is-AW159-Lynx-Wildcat-Wild-Enough_76117.html#.UWt9dYlwZMO |date=8 April 2014 }} ''Aviation Today'', 1 April 2012.</ref> While the AW159 shares broad similarities in appearance to the Lynx, it has significant design differences and is heavily modernised and adapted to gain new attributes and functionality.<ref name="rotor"/> The AW159 comprises 95% new components; the remaining 5%, consisting of such items as the fuel system and main rotor gearbox, are interchangeable with the Lynx AH7 and HMA8 variants.<ref name="flight-2007-10-09">{{cite journal |last= Hoyle |first= Craig |title= PICTURES: UK's Future Lynx programme moves into manufacturing phase |journal= [[Flight International]] |date= 9 October 2007 |url= http://www.flightglobal.com/articles/2007/10/09/218000/pictures-uks-future-lynx-programme-moves-into-manufacturing-phase.html |access-date= 21 September 2010 |archive-url= https://web.archive.org/web/20091212014103/http://www.flightglobal.com/articles/2007/10/09/218000/pictures-uks-future-lynx-programme-moves-into-manufacturing-phase.html |archive-date= 12 December 2009 |url-status= live }}</ref> During development, the Army and Navy variants of the Wildcat reportedly maintained 98 per cent commonality with one another.<ref name="export sought"/> The AW159 is the first helicopter by AgustaWestland to be designed inside an entirely digital environment.<ref name="rotor"/> Among other changes, certain external elements of the Wildcat, such as the tail rotor, have been redesigned for greater durability and stealth qualities.<ref name="rotor"/>
Both Army and Navy variants have a common airframe, which is manufactured by [[GKN|GKN Aerostructures]];<ref name="export sought"/> the airframe has undergone [[marinisation]] for operations in the naval environment and providing for a greater airframe lifespan of 12,000 flight hours.<ref name="into manuf"/> The wheeled [[Landing gear|undercarriage]] is also strengthened for naval landings on both variants. The AW159 is powered by two {{convert|1362|hp|kW|abbr=on|0}} [[LHTEC T800|LHTEC CTS800]] turboshaft engines, driving the rotorcraft's [[BERP rotor|BERP IV]] [[rotor blade]]s via a new [[gearbox|transmission]], increasing the maximum take-off weight by more than 1 ton over the legacy Super Lynx.<ref name="into manuf"/> It is equipped with a new composite tailboom, [[tailplane]], [[tail rotor]], nose structure and [[avionics]] suite. The naval version is also equipped with a [[Selex ES|Selex]] Galileo [[Seaspray (radar)|Seaspray]] 7000E [[active electronically scanned array]] (AESA) radar<ref name="army-tech"/> and L-3 Wescam MX-15HDi electro-optical/infrared nose turret.<ref name=Janes20140721 /><ref name="into manuf"/> A [[glass cockpit]] comprises the primary [[User interface|human-machine interface]], using four 255 x 200mm multifunction displays to provide information to the aircrew and interact with the avionics systems on board.<ref name="into manuf"/>
[[File:AAC Wildcat Mk1 MOD 45162204.jpg|thumb|right|British Army AH1 with 0.5-inch (12.7mm) [[M2 Browning#AN.2FM3.2C GAU-21.2FA.2C and M3P|M3M heavy machine gun]]]]
The Wildcat features an increased payload and range over the preceding Super Lynx; it is operationally required to carry up to 8 Future Anti-Surface Guided Weapons up to 185 kilometers from a host ship and remain on station for up to an hour.<ref name="into manuf"/> The type can perform [[aerial reconnaissance]], [[anti-submarine warfare]] (ASW), [[anti-surface warfare]] (ASuW), [[utility aircraft|utility]], [[Fire-control system|fire control]], [[command and control]], and [[Military transport aircraft#Transport helicopters|troop transport]] duties.<ref name="into manuf"/> In June 2014, the Royal Navy awarded [[Thales Group]] a £48 million contract to deliver the [[Martlet (missile)|Martlet]] missile for the Wildcat under the Future Anti-Surface Guided Weapons Light (FASGW (L)) programme for targets such as small boats and fast attack craft. A Wildcat can carry four launchers, each with five Martlets.<ref name=Janes20140721 /> In March 2014, a contract was awarded to [[MBDA]] for the [[Sea Venom (missile)|Sea Venom]] (FASGW Heavy) missile for use against vessels and land targets, replacing the [[Sea Skua]].<ref>[http://www.flightglobal.com/news/articles/uk-orders-lightweight-missiles-for-naval-wildcat-400496/ UK orders lightweight missiles for naval Wildcat] {{Webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140714220019/http://www.flightglobal.com/news/articles/uk-orders-lightweight-missiles-for-naval-wildcat-400496/ |date=14 July 2014 }} - Flightglobal.com, 17 June 2014</ref> Both missiles are being integrated by AgustaWestland in a single £90m programme by 2018, with IOC for both planned by October 2020.<ref name=Janes20140721>{{cite news|url=http://www.janes.com/article/41034/agustawestland-funded-for-fasgw-integration-on-wildcat |title=AgustaWestland funded for FASGW integration on Wildcat |first=Richard |last=Scott |newspaper=IHS Jane's Navy International |date=21 July 2014 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20141109205113/http://www.janes.com/article/41034/agustawestland-funded-for-fasgw-integration-on-wildcat |archive-date=9 November 2014}}</ref>
Many elements of the AW159's avionics are provided by Thales Group.<ref name="export sought"/> The type is reported to possess significant [[ISTAR]] capabilities and improved situational awareness, achieved through its onboard integrated digital open systems architecture; it has been equipped with the [[Bowman (communications system)|Bowman]] communications system, allowing for data such as targeting and voice communications to be securely and seamlessly transmitted to friendly forces.<ref name="rotor"/> Some AW159 models have been fitted with various [[General Dynamics]]-built mission systems, these include secured data recorders and tactical processing systems which integrate sensor data and application information for displaying within the cockpit as well as for retention within encrypted data storage.<ref>{{cite web |url = https://www.adsadvance.co.uk/general-dynamics-uk-supplies-tactical-systems-for-aw159s.html |title = General Dynamics UK supplies tactical systems for AW159s |publisher = adsadvance.co.uk |date = 29 January 2014}}</ref><ref>{{cite web |url =https://gdmissionsystems.com/articles/2014/12/08/12-8-2014-gd-uk-awarded-aw101-merlin-contract |title = General Dynamics UK Awarded Contract To Provide Mission System Equipment For UK AW101 Merlin Mk4/4a Helicopter |publisher = gdmissionsystems.com |date = 8 December 2014}}</ref> Other mission systems used on the Wildcat have been produced by [[BAE Systems]].<ref>[http://www.shephardmedia.com/news/rotorhub/bae-cage-uk-aw159-wildcats/ "BAE Systems' CAGE for UK AW159 Wildcats."] {{Webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150714183013/http://www.shephardmedia.com/news/rotorhub/bae-cage-uk-aw159-wildcats/ |date=14 July 2015 }} ''Sheppard Media'', 17 February 2015.</ref> All variants of the Wildcat share the same defensive aids arrangement, which shares some commonality with the [[AgustaWestland Apache]]; features include missile warning sensors, countermeasures dispensers, and [[infrared]] exhaust suppressors.<ref name="into manuf"/>
==Operational history==
===United Kingdom===
[[File:Wildcat Helicopter Trials Onboard RFA Argus MOD 45153723.jpg|thumb|A Wildcat taking off from {{ship|RFA|Argus|A135|6}} during trials in 2011]]
The UK has ordered 34 Wildcats for the British Army and 28 for the Royal Navy.<ref name=Desider_Oct2014/> The Army Air Corps formed the Wildcat Fielding Team (Army), which later became [[No. 652 Squadron AAC|652 (Operational Conversion) Squadron]], for trials and operational conversion of [[Joint Helicopter Command]], now [[Joint Aviation Command]], aircrew and ground crew to the type. The Royal Navy also commissioned a Wildcat Fielding Squadron, [[700 Naval Air Squadron|700W Naval Air Squadron]] (700W NAS)<ref>[http://www.shephard.co.uk/news/2802/ "Fleet Air Arm forms Lynx Wildcat training squadron"] {{Webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110717062859/http://www.shephard.co.uk/news/2802/ |date=17 July 2011 }}. shephard.co.uk, 26 May 2009.</ref> in 2009. Both units are located at [[RNAS Yeovilton (HMS Heron)|RNAS Yeovilton]]. In February 2012, a prototype Wildcat (ZZ402) conducted 20 days of trials aboard {{HMS|Iron Duke|F234|6}} off the coasts of England and Scotland; the tests involved operating under challenging weather conditions to define ship-helicopter operating limits for when the type would enter service in 2015. During the trials, a total of 390 deck landings were completed, including 148 night landings, 76 of which being conducted by pilots using [[Night-vision device|night vision goggles]].<ref>[http://navynews.co.uk/archive/news/item/3691 "Wildcat impresses during its first trials aboard a warship."] {{Webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120303143257/http://navynews.co.uk/archive/news/item/3691 |date=3 March 2012 }} ''Navy News'', 17 January 2012.</ref>
The first production Wildcat was received in May 2012 by the WFT (Army); ZZ406. The Royal Navy received their first airframe at the end of 2013. Further trials of the type were conducted, such as deck landings aboard {{ship|RFA|Mounts Bay|L3008|6}}.<ref>[http://www.fleetairarmoa.org/news/wildcat-crews-begin-training "Wildcat crews begin training."] {{Webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20131021215527/http://www.fleetairarmoa.org/news/wildcat-crews-begin-training |date=21 October 2013 }} ''Fleet Air Arm Officers Association'', 22 July 2013.</ref> In July 2012, the Wildcat conducted its first public display at the [[Farnborough International Airshow]]. At the event, Defence Secretary [[Philip Hammond]] stated that the "Wildcat represents a considerable advance over the current Lynx helicopters, bringing greatly improved performance and capability."<ref>Gardener, Claire. [http://www.scotsman.com/news/anti-pirate-wildcat-helicopter-unveiled-by-royal-navy-1-2762200 "Anti-pirate Wildcat helicopter unveiled by Royal Navy."] {{Webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130131080527/http://www.scotsman.com/news/anti-pirate-wildcat-helicopter-unveiled-by-royal-navy-1-2762200 |date=31 January 2013 }} ''The Scotsman'', 29 January 2013.</ref>
On 29 August 2014, the Wildcat AH1 formally entered service with the Army Air Corps.<ref name=Desider_Oct2014>{{cite journal |url=https://www.gov.uk/government/uploads/system/uploads/attachment_data/file/360915/desider_77_Oct2014-v1_0.pdf |page=15 |title=Army Wildcat continues on track |journal=Desider |date=October 2014 |access-date=12 February 2015 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150212063625/https://www.gov.uk/government/uploads/system/uploads/attachment_data/file/360915/desider_77_Oct2014-v1_0.pdf |archive-date=12 February 2015 |url-status=live }}</ref> On 23 March 2015, the Royal Navy's first Wildcat HMA2 began its initial operational deployment at sea on board {{HMS|Lancaster|F229|6}}.<ref>{{cite news|title=HMS Lancaster leaves Portsmouth on deployment of 'firsts'|url=http://www.royalnavy.mod.uk/news-and-latest-activity/news/2015/march/23/150323-hms-lancaster-deploys|access-date=23 March 2015|agency=Royal Navy|date=23 March 2015|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150325211752/http://www.royalnavy.mod.uk/news-and-latest-activity/news/2015/march/23/150323-hms-lancaster-deploys|archive-date=25 March 2015|url-status=live}}</ref> By 2024, all 62 Wildcats had been delivered to the British Army and Royal Navy;<ref>{{Cite web |last=administrator |title=Wildcat Mk1 and Wildcat Mk2 helicopter |url=https://des.mod.uk/what-we-do/army-procurement-support/wildcat-mk1-mk2/ |access-date=2024-04-23 |website=Defence Equipment & Support |language=en-GB}}</ref> in excess of 10,000 flight hours had been logged between the services along with a 100 percent availability rate achieved at sea and over 1,200 deck landings performed.<ref>[https://www.flightglobal.com/news/articles/dsei-aw159-south-korea-delivery-due-this-year-416840/ "AW159 South Korea delivery due this year."] {{Webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150930000211/https://www.flightglobal.com/news/articles/dsei-aw159-south-korea-delivery-due-this-year-416840/ |date=30 September 2015 }} Flightglobal.com, 17 September 2015.</ref> In September 2015, a Wildcat HMA.2 of 825 Naval Air Squadron was deployed aboard {{ship|HMS|Duncan|D37|6}} in the [[Persian Gulf]] to perform extreme high temperature trials.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.royalnavy.mod.uk/news-and-latest-activity/news/2015/september/17/150917-wildcat-shows-its-teeth-during-gulf-heat-trials|title=Wildcat shows its teeth during Gulf heat trials|publisher=Royal Navy|access-date=18 September 2015|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150919231242/http://www.royalnavy.mod.uk/news-and-latest-activity/news/2015/september/17/150917-wildcat-shows-its-teeth-during-gulf-heat-trials|archive-date=19 September 2015|url-status=live}}</ref>
On 4 July 2019, [[Royal Marines]] from [[42 Commando]] unit used a Wildcat to board and detain the Grace 1 oil tanker off [[Gibraltar]].<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.theguardian.com/world/2019/jul/04/royal-marines-gibraltar-tanker-oil-syria-eu-sanctions|title=Iran fury as Royal Marines seize tanker suspected of carrying oil to Syria|work=Guardian|date=5 July 2019 |access-date=5 July 2019|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190705005012/https://www.theguardian.com/world/2019/jul/04/royal-marines-gibraltar-tanker-oil-syria-eu-sanctions|archive-date=5 July 2019|url-status=live}}</ref>
===South Korea===
[[File:ZZ406 Wildcat AH1 of the AAC.jpeg|thumb|left|ZZ406, the first production Wildcat delivered to the [[Army Air Corps (United Kingdom)|AAC]] in May 2012]]
On 15 January 2013, [[South Korea]]'s [[Defense Acquisition Program Administration]] announced the selection of the AW159 to fulfill a requirement of the [[Republic of Korea Navy]] for a maritime helicopter, winning against the [[Sikorsky SH-60 Seahawk|MH-60R Seahawk]]. The batch of eight aircraft were chosen to perform search-and-rescue missions, anti-submarine warfare and surveillance.<ref>[http://www.flightglobal.com/news/articles/south-korea-picks-aw159-for-maritime-helicopter-deal-381045/ "South Korea picks AW159 for maritime helicopter deal"] {{Webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130120111727/http://www.flightglobal.com/news/articles/south-korea-picks-aw159-for-maritime-helicopter-deal-381045/ |date=20 January 2013 }}. ''Flight International'', 15 January 2013.</ref> In January 2014, DAPA announced it will equip its Wildcat helicopters with [[Spike (missile)|Spike NLOS]] missiles to provide a stand-off attack capability for engaging targets such as ground artillery and small vessels.<ref>[http://defense-update.com/20140106_seoul-equip-new-maritime-helicopters-israeli-spike-missiles.html#.U3y0WsJOUdV "Seoul to Equip its New Maritime Helicopters with Israeli SPIKE Missiles."] {{Webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140701173457/http://defense-update.com/20140106_seoul-equip-new-maritime-helicopters-israeli-spike-missiles.html#.U3y0WsJOUdV |date=1 July 2014 }} Defense-Update.com, 6 January 2014.</ref> In April 2015, the South Korean government was considering ordering a further 12 Wildcats to further strengthen the Navy's anti-submarine capabilities; alternative options include the MH-60 Seahawk and the domestically produced [[KAI KUH-1 Surion]] helicopter.<ref>[http://www.defensenews.com/story/defense/show-daily/sea-air-space/2015/04/12/korea-south-north-navy-modernize-coastal-scandal-sub-helicopter-frigate/25512681/ "South Korea Focuses on Underwater Protection."] ''DefenseNews'', 12 April 2015.</ref> On 13 June 2016, the Republic of Korea Navy took delivery of four Wildcats. The helicopters operate from the Navy's [[Incheon-class frigate|Incheon-class guided missile/coastal defense frigates]].<ref>[http://www.janes.com/article/61311/south-korea-receives-first-batch-of-aw159-anti-submarine-helicopters?from_rss=1 "South Korea receives first batch of AW159 anti-submarine helicopters"] {{Webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160810191752/http://www.janes.com/article/61311/south-korea-receives-first-batch-of-aw159-anti-submarine-helicopters?from_rss=1 |date=10 August 2016 }} ''IHS Jane's 360'', 14 June 2016.</ref> The remaining four were delivered in late November 2016.  ROK Navy Wildcats are fitted with a Seaspray 7400E radar offering 360-degree coverage.<ref>[http://navyrecognition.com/index.php/news/defence-news/2016/december-2016-navy-naval-forces-defense-industry-technology-maritime-security-global-news/4725-final-batch-of-aw159-wildcat-maritime-helicopters-delivered-to-rok-navy.html Final Batch of AW159 Wildcat Maritime Helicopters Delivered to ROK Navy] {{Webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20161228130812/http://www.navyrecognition.com/index.php/news/defence-news/2016/december-2016-navy-naval-forces-defense-industry-technology-maritime-security-global-news/4725-final-batch-of-aw159-wildcat-maritime-helicopters-delivered-to-rok-navy.html |date=28 December 2016 }} - Navyrecognition.com, 26 December 2016</ref>
The first four AW159s were operational by February 2017. Its [[AESA radar]] and electro-optic thermal sensor are capable of detecting surface contacts out to {{convert|360|km|mi nmi|abbr=on}}. For anti-submarine duties, the helicopter can operate for over three hours when equipped with the [[Thales Group|Thales]] FLASH dipping sonar, two hours with the sonar and one [[Chung Sang Eo|Blue Shark torpedo]], and an hour or more with the sonar and two torpedoes; it can also drop [[sonobuoy]]s.<ref>[http://www.navyrecognition.com/index.php/news/defence-news/2017/february-2017-navy-naval-forces-defense-industry-technology-maritime-security-global-news/4864-pictures-rok-navy-first-four-aw-159-wildcat-naval-helicopters-now-operational.html Pictures: ROK Navy First Four AW-159 Wildcat Naval Helicopters Now Operational] {{Webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170805020345/http://www.navyrecognition.com/index.php/news/defence-news/2017/february-2017-navy-naval-forces-defense-industry-technology-maritime-security-global-news/4864-pictures-rok-navy-first-four-aw-159-wildcat-naval-helicopters-now-operational.html |date=5 August 2017 }} - Navyrecognition.com, 2 February 2017</ref>
===Philippines===
[[File:AW-159 Philippine Navy.jpg|thumb|Philippine Navy's AW-159 Wildcat onboard the [[BRP Antonio Luna (FF-151)|BRP Antonio Luna FF-151]].]]
In 2014, it was reported that the AW159 was being considered by the [[Philippine Navy]].<ref>{{cite news |title=Philippines to acquire two new ASW helicopters for PHP5.4 billion |url=http://www.janes.com/article/35470/philippines-to-acquire-two-new-asw-helicopters-for-php5-4-billion |publisher=IHS Jane's |date=18 March 2014 |access-date=2 January 2015 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140321064107/http://www.janes.com/article/35470/philippines-to-acquire-two-new-asw-helicopters-for-php5-4-billion |archive-date=21 March 2014 |url-status=live }}</ref> In March 2016, AgustaWestland signed a €100 million contract with the [[Department of National Defense (Philippines)|Department of National Defense]] for two helicopters along with training and support. The project aims to provide anti-submarine warfare (ASW) and anti-surface capabilities to the Navy. Prior to the introduction of the Wildcat, the Philippines lacked any ASW capabilities in a region where the number of submarines being operated by other nations was reportedly set to grow.<ref name="MaxdefenseAW159">{{cite web|url=https://www.phdefresource.com/2020/09/anti-submarine-helicopter-acquisition.html?m=1|title=Anti-Submarine Helicopter Acquisition Project of the Philippine Navy|website=Philippine Defense Resource|accessdate=September 28, 2020}}</ref>
On 7 May 2019, the two AW159 anti-submarine helicopters arrived in the Philippines.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Gain |first=Nathan |date=June 24, 2019 |title=Philippine Navy Inducts Two AW159 Wildcat Helicopters |url=https://www.navalnews.com/naval-news/2019/06/philippine-navy-inducts-two-aw159-wildcat-helicopters/ |url-status=live |archive-url=https://archive.today/20230705075620/https://www.navalnews.com/naval-news/2019/06/philippine-navy-inducts-two-aw159-wildcat-helicopters/ |archive-date=July 5, 2023 |access-date=April 3, 2023 |website=Naval News}}</ref> The helicopters are purchased as units assigned onboard the [[Jose Rizal-class frigate|Jose Rizal-class Frigates]].<ref>{{Cite web |last=Orpiano |first=Pitz |date=June 2, 2019 |title=Knowing the Philippine Navy AW-159 Antisubmarine Helicopter |url=https://www.pitzdefanalysis.net/2019/06/knowing-philippine-navy-aw-159.html |access-date=April 3, 2023 |website=Pitz Defense Analysis}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |date=August 12, 2022 |title=Philippine Navy's frigate Jose Rizal completes DLQ test with AW-159 |url=https://www.naval-technology.com/news/philippine-jose-rizal-dlq-aw159/ |url-status=live |archive-url=https://archive.today/20230403082336/https://www.naval-technology.com/news/philippine-jose-rizal-dlq-aw159/ |archive-date=April 3, 2023 |access-date=April 3, 2023 |website=Naval Technology}}</ref>
===Others===
In 2016, Malaysia reportedly considering increasing the number of helicopters operated by the [[Royal Malaysian Navy]] by procuring either the AW159, [[Sikorsky SH-60 Seahawk|Sikorsky MH-60R Seahawk]] or the [[Eurocopter EC725|Airbus Helicopters H225M]].<ref>{{cite web|url=http://defense-update.com/20160223_aw-159.html|title=AW-159 – Asian Navies Evaluate Acquisition of ASW Helicopters|publisher=Defense Update|date=23 February 2016|access-date=19 April 2016|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160404065501/http://defense-update.com/20160223_aw-159.html|archive-date=4 April 2016|url-status=live}}</ref> On 20 April 2016, Finmeccanica (now [[Leonardo (company)|Leonardo]]) signed a teaming agreement with Global Komited, a Malaysian defence company, to jointly promote and distribute the AW159 Wildcat to the Malaysian government.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.janes.com/article/59658/dsa-2016-finmeccanica-and-weststar-to-offer-aw159-to-malaysian-navy|title=DSA 2016: Finmeccanica and Weststar to offer AW159 to Malaysian navy|author=Jon Grevatt|publisher=IHS Jane’s 360|date=20 April 2016|access-date=20 April 2016|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160420195244/http://www.janes.com/article/59658/dsa-2016-finmeccanica-and-weststar-to-offer-aw159-to-malaysian-navy|archive-date=20 April 2016|url-status=live}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.theedgemarkets.com/my/article/weststar-defence-unit-teams-finmeccanica-sell-naval-helicopters-msian-govt|title=Weststar Defence unit teams up with Finmeccanica to sell naval helicopters to M'sian govt|author=Supriya Surendran|publisher=The Edge Markets|date=20 April 2016|access-date=20 April 2016|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160524230831/http://www.theedgemarkets.com/my/article/weststar-defence-unit-teams-finmeccanica-sell-naval-helicopters-msian-govt|archive-date=24 May 2016|url-status=live}}</ref>
==Variants==
[[File:SDSC 3060-high.jpg|thumb|Wildcat AH1 of British Army Air Corps [[No. 652 Squadron AAC|652(OC) Sqn]]]]
;Wildcat AH1
:Initial battlefield reconnaissance model, total of 34 ordered for the Army Air Corps.<ref>Patrick, Allen. [http://www.janes.com/article/47948/ihs-jane-s-speaks-to-the-army-air-corps-on-the-introduction-into-service-of-the-new-wildcat-ah-1-helicopter "IHS Jane's speaks to the Army Air Corps on the introduction into service of the new Wildcat AH.1 helicopter."] {{Webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150929195344/http://www.janes.com/article/47948/ihs-jane-s-speaks-to-the-army-air-corps-on-the-introduction-into-service-of-the-new-wildcat-ah-1-helicopter |date=29 September 2015 }} ''IHS Janes'', 15 January 2015.</ref>
;Wildcat HMA2
:Initial maritime model, total of 28 ordered for the Royal Navy.<ref>Jennings, Gareth. [http://www.janes.com/article/49687/royal-navy-graduates-first-operational-wildcat-crews "Royal Navy graduates first operational Wildcat crews."] {{Webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150304072326/http://www.janes.com/article/49687/royal-navy-graduates-first-operational-wildcat-crews |date=4 March 2015 }} ''IHS Janes'', 2 March 2015.</ref>
==Operators==
<!--READ FIRST: This section is for cited entries only. Please do not add entries into this list without a citation from a reliable source. All entries without a citation will be removed. Thank you.-->
;{{PHL}}
* [[Philippine Navy]]: 2 AW159s in service<ref>{{cite web |date=19 May 2019 |title=Philippine Navy commissions first AW159 ASW helicopters |url=https://www.navaltoday.com/2019/06/19/philippine-navy-commissions-first-aw159-asw-helicopters/ |url-status=live |archive-url=https://archive.today/20240325075457/https://www.navaltoday.com/2019/06/19/philippine-navy-commissions-first-aw159-asw-helicopters/ |archive-date=25 March 2024 |access-date=19 June 2019 |website=Naval Today}}</ref> with 2 more planned.{{cn|date=November 2024}}
;{{KOR}}
* [[Republic of Korea Navy]]: 8 AW159s in service<ref>{{cite web |date=15 January 2013 |title=Republic of Korea Selects The AgustaWestland AW159: First Export Success For New Generation Helicopter |url=https://www.leonardocompany.com/en/press-release-detail/-/detail/republic-korea-selects-aw159 |url-status=live |archive-url=https://archive.today/20240325075700/https://www.leonardo.com/en/press-release-detail/-/detail/republic-of-korea-selects-the-agustawestland-aw159 |archive-date=25 March 2024 |access-date=15 January 2013 |website=Leonardo}}</ref>
;{{GBR}}
* [[Army Air Corps (United Kingdom)|Army Air Corps]]: 34 AH1 in service<ref name="World Air Forces 2018">{{cite web |url= https://www.flightglobal.com/asset/21905/waf/ |title= World Air Forces 2018 |publisher= Flightglobal Insight |year= 2018 |access-date= 4 August 2018 |archive-url= https://web.archive.org/web/20180206123925/https://www.flightglobal.com/asset/21905/waf/ |archive-date= 6 February 2018 |url-status= live}}</ref>
* [[Royal Navy]]: 28 HMA2 in service<ref name="World Air Forces 2018"/>
==Specifications (AW159)==
[[File:AgustaWestland AW159 Lynx Wildcat MOD 45152773.jpg|thumb|Head-on view of an AW159 Wildcat. Note the nose-mounted optical sensor which is stowed so the window is not seen.]]
[[File:2023-05-12 AW159 Wildcat 003.jpg|thumb|AW159 Wildcat helicopter of the [[Philippine Navy]] armed with  [[K745 Blue Shark]] torpedoes taken at the Philippine Fleet Defense Expo (PFDX) 2023]]
{{external media |topic= |float=right |video1=[http://ing.dk/artikel/124593-tag-med-ingenioeren-op-i-wildcaten-afloeseren-for-lynx-helikopteren Inflight video of AW159] }}
{{Aircraft specs
|ref= ''AgustaWestland''<ref>[http://www.agustawestland.com/system/files/brochures_new_product/LX090415_AW159_LoRes.pdf AW Future Lynx] {{Webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110707100542/http://www.agustawestland.com/system/files/brochures_new_product/LX090415_AW159_LoRes.pdf |date=7 July 2011 }}. AgustaWestland, May 2009. Retrieved: 8 September 2011.</ref><ref>[http://www.agustawestland.com/product/aw159-0 AW159 page (see Technical Data tab)] {{Webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130329110514/http://www.agustawestland.com/product/aw159-0 |date=29 March 2013 }}. AgustaWestland. Retrieved: 20 January 2014.</ref>
|prime units? =met
<!--
General characteristics
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|crew= 2 pilots
|capacity= 6 passengers, including door gunner
|length m= 15.24
|height m= 3.73
|empty weight kg= 3,300
|max takeoff weight kg= 6,000
<!--
Powerplant
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|eng1 number= 2
|eng1 name= [[LHTEC CTS800-4N]]
|eng1 type= turboshaft
|eng1 kw= 1,015<!-- prop engines -->
|rot number= 1<!-- helicopters -->
|rot dia m= 12.8<!-- helicopters -->
|rot area sqm= 128.7
<!--
Performance
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|perfhide=
|max speed kmh= 311
|range km= 777
|ferry range km= 963
|endurance= Two hours and 15&nbsp;minutes (Four hours and 30&nbsp;minutes with auxiliary fuel tanks)
<!--
Armament
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|armament=
* [[Weapon mount#Pintle|Pintle]]-mounted machine gun, e.g. [[FN MAG]] (Army) or [[M2 Browning|Browning M3M]] (Navy).
Air-to-surface missile systems and ASW weapons (Naval HMA2 variant):
* up to 20×<ref name=Janes20140721 /> [[Thales Group|Thales]] [[Martlet (missile)|Martlet]] ([[Lightweight Multirole Missile]]), formerly Future Anti-Surface Guided Weapon (Light).<ref>Hoyle, Craig. [http://www.flightglobal.com/articles/2011/04/05/355186/uk-orders-thales-lightweight-multi-role-missiles-for-lynx.html "UK orders Thales lightweight multi-role missiles for Lynx Wildcat"] {{Webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110410174444/http://www.flightglobal.com/articles/2011/04/05/355186/uk-orders-thales-lightweight-multi-role-missiles-for-lynx.html |date=10 April 2011 }}. ''Flightglobal'', 4 April 2011.</ref> or
* up to 4×<ref name=Janes20140721 /> [[MBDA]] [[Sea Venom (missile)|Sea Venom]], formerly Future Anti-Surface Guided Weapon (Heavy), to disable or destroy vessels up to 1000 tonnes (projected for full operating capability in 2026).<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.navylookout.com/royal-navys-sea-venom-light-anti-ship-missile-full-operating-capability-delayed-until-2026/|title = Royal Navy's Sea Venom light anti-ship missile full operating capability delayed until 2026 |website=Navy Lookout |date=21 June 2023}}</ref><ref>Hoyle, Craig. [http://defense-update.com/products/f/fasgw.html#more "Future Air-to-Surface Guided Weapon (FASGW)]. ''defense-update.com'', 20 February 2012. {{webarchive |url=https://web.archive.org/web/20111212024508/http://defense-update.com/products/f/fasgw.html#more |date=12 December 2011 }}</ref> or
* [[Sting Ray torpedo]] and Mk.11 depth charges.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://navynews.co.uk/archive/news/item/13005|title=Navy News - Reporting from the Fleet|work=navynews.co.uk|access-date=9 August 2016|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160304190143/https://navynews.co.uk/archive/news/item/13005|archive-date=4 March 2016|url-status=dead}}</ref><ref>{{Cite Hansard|title=Wildcat Helicopters|url=https://publications.parliament.uk/pa/cm201213/cmhansrd/cm121023/text/121023w0002.htm#12102371000037|house=House of Commons|date=23 October 2012|column=813W|speaker=[[Philip Dunne (Ludlow MP)|Phillip Dunne]]|position=Parliamentary Under-Secretary (Ministry of Defence)|access-date=11 July 2019|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180915122327/https://publications.parliament.uk/pa/cm201213/cmhansrd/cm121023/text/121023w0002.htm#12102371000037|archive-date=15 September 2018|url-status=live}}</ref> (sub-surface targetting for U.K. HMA2 variant provided by other platforms)<ref name = "savethenavy 2019">{{cite web |url=https://www.savetheroyalnavy.org/in-focus-the-wildcat-multi-role-helicopter-in-service-with-the-royal-navy/ |title=In focus: the Wildcat multi role helicopter in service with the Royal Navy |work=Navy Lookout |date=4 February 2019 |access-date=21 June 2021 }}</ref>
South Korean and Philippine naval loadout
* [[K745 Blue Shark]] torpedoes
* [[Spike missile|Spike NLOS]] [[anti-tank guided missile|ATGM-based]] antiship missiles
<!-- Avionics -->
|avionics=
* [[Thales Underwater Systems]] Compact [[FLASH (sonar)|FLASH]] dipping sonar array (not deployed on U.K. HMA2 variant)<ref name = "savethenavy 2019"/>
* [[Seaspray (radar)|Seaspray 7400E]] [[Active electronically scanned array|AESA]] [[X band]] air-to-surface multifunction radar
* [[Wescam|Wescam MX-15Di]] EOIR cameras
* [[Sonobuoys]] (not deployed on U.K. HMA2 variant)<ref name = "savethenavy 2019"/>
* [[Link 16|TDL-16]] (?)
}}
==See also==
{{Portal|Aviation}}
{{aircontent
|related=
* [[Westland Lynx|Westland Lynx/Super Lynx]]
* [[Westland 30]]
|similar aircraft=
* [[Sikorsky SH-60 Seahawk]]
* [[Bell UH-1Y Venom]]
* [[Eurocopter AS565 Panther]]
* [[HAL Dhruv]]
* [[Kaman SH-2G Super Seasprite]]
* [[NH90]]
* [[Airbus Helicopters H175]]
* [[Kamov Ka-50#Ka-52K "Katran"|Ka-52K "Katran"]]
|lists=
* [[List of active United Kingdom military aircraft]]
* [[List of aircraft of the Army Air Corps (United Kingdom)]]
}}
==References==
{{Reflist|30em|refs=
<ref name="ff">{{cite web |title=Lynx Wildcat makes first flight, with AW149 also poised for debut |url=http://www.flightglobal.com/articles/2009/11/13/334800/pictures-lynx-wildcat-makes-first-flight-with-aw149-also-poised-for.html |publisher=[[Flight International]] |date=13 November 2009|archive-url= https://web.archive.org/web/20091116222406/http://www.flightglobal.com/articles/2009/11/13/334800/pictures-lynx-wildcat-makes-first-flight-with-aw149-also-poised-for.html |archive-date= 16 November 2009 |url-status= live}}</ref>
}}
== External links ==
{{Commons category}}
*{{Official website}}
{{AgustaWestland aircraft}}
{{DEFAULTSORT:AgustaWestland AW159}}
[[Category:Military helicopters]]
[[Category:2000s British military utility aircraft]]
[[Category:AgustaWestland aircraft|AW159]]
[[Category:2000s British helicopters]]
[[Category:Twin-turbine helicopters]]
[[Category:Aircraft first flown in 2009]]
[[Category:Single-rotor helicopters]]
[[Category:Aircraft with fixed tricycle landing gear]]