Leonardo-Finmeccanica announced today that an industrial and trade partnership agreement was signed with the Algerian Ministry of National Defence on August 11th.

The agreement foresees the establishment of a joint company to produce light and medium weight category helicopters at an industrial site in Ain Arnat. After the completion of the facility and during the early years of activity, the joint company aims to manufacture three different AgustaWestland helicopter types for various uses including transport, medical evacuation, surveillance and control.

The joint company will also benefit from a local and international distribution network and after-sales services, including a range of repair and overhaul capabilities and training solutions for the Algerian Ministry of National Defence and other customers. The industrial programme will also support the development of high technology capabilities in the field of aeronautical material production.