PZL-Swidnik SA, an AgustaWestland company, has started development of the W-3PL/N multirole naval helicopter, further expanding the already outstanding range of products for multiple maritime applications available through both AgustaWestland and PZL-Swidnik SA. Based on the W-3PL G?uszec multirole armed helicopter, the W-3PL/N represents a proven, cost/effective solution to meet a number of maritime mission requirements.

Nicola Bianco, Managing Director of PZL-Swidnik SA, said "The launch of the W-3PL/N demonstrates our continued commitment to offering maritime operators across the world the greatest range of helicopters for the task. This latest addition to the product range benefits from our unrivalled expertise in the naval helicopter sector and builds upon the success of the Sokol platform."

A dedicated programme team based at the PZL-Swidnik SA headquarter in Swidnik is developing the W-3PL/N with the active support of AgustaWestland, a world leader in naval helicopter design and system integration. The W-3PL/N development also leverages on experience gained from the W-3 Anaconda maritime SAR helicopter operated by the Polish Navy in the Baltic Sea.

The W-3PL/N will be fitted with mission equipment including a radar, compact sonics system (dipping sonar, sonobuoys), FLIR, rescue hoist and search light. The aircraft will also feature an emergency floatation system, an all-new landing gear and main rotor blade folding system. Weapon systems will include air-to-surface missiles, torpedoes and machine guns.

The W-3PL/N is perfectly suited to perform many maritime missions including anti-submarine warfare, anti-surface warfare, search and rescue, naval tactical transport and target designation.