Discover the A129 Mangusta, the First Fully Developed Western European Attack Helicopter

A129 Mangusta. Photos: Reproduction
A129 Mangusta. Photos: Reproduction

The A129 Mangusta is a light attack helicopter designed and produced by the Italian company Agusta (now part of Leonardo-Finmeccanica).

+ Click here to watch the video of the A129 Mangusta

It was the first fully developed Western European attack helicopter and remains one of the main components of the Italian Army’s attack aviation.

+ The police in Turkey have their own attack helicopters
+ Video Shows Giant Waves Hitting the Coast of Turkey

Introduced in the 80s, the A129 was designed for various missions, including armed reconnaissance, escort, close air support, and anti-tank attack. It is equipped with a variety of weapons, such as anti-tank missiles, unguided rockets, and a nose-mounted machine gun.

The A129 is known for its agility and survivability. It features a five-blade rotor system, an aerodynamic design for increased speed and maneuverability, and protective measures including armor and electronic countermeasure systems to enhance its survivability in combat environments.

Over the years, the A129 has been upgraded and modified, leading to the development of enhanced variants. One such variant is the T129 ATAK, an improved version of the A129, developed by Turkish Aerospace Industries in partnership with AgustaWestland (now Leonardo Helicopters) for the Turkish Armed Forces.

The T129 is a more advanced and powerful version of the A129, with improvements in electronics, armament, and survivability capabilities.

A129 Mangusta. Photos: Reproduction
A129 Mangusta. Photos: Reproduction




SpecificationsA129 Mangusta
ManufacturerAgusta (now part of Leonardo)
Main FunctionLight attack helicopter
First FlightSeptember 15, 1983
Introduced1990
Crew2 (pilot and gunner)
Length12.28 m
Rotor Diameter11.90 m
Height3.35 m
Maximum Takeoff Weight4,600 kg
Powerplant2x Rolls-Royce Gem 2-1004D
Maximum Speed278 km/h
Range510 km
ArmamentAnti-tank missiles, unguided rockets, nose-mounted machine gun

Photos and Video: Reproduction Instagram @brunelheritage

Back to top