AB 212ASW

The Agusta AB 212ASW is a naval anti‑submarine warfare variant of the twin‑engine, medium‑weight helicopter that entered service in the early 1980s. Derived from the civilian Bell 212 and built under licence by Italy’s Agusta, the ASW version incorporated a reinforced airframe, corrosion‑resistant components and a suite of specialised sensors for maritime patrol. First delivered to the Italian Navy in 1983, the type quickly attracted interest from other NATO fleets, leading to operators such as the Portuguese and Turkish navies. Key features include a rooftop radar dome, a dipping sonar, magnetic anomaly detector, and four external hardpoints capable of carrying torpedoes, depth charges or anti‑ship missiles. The cabin can also accommodate up to eight troops or medevac litter patients, providing versatile utility beyond its primary mission. Powered by two Pratt & Whitney PT6T‑3 turboprop engines delivering 1,800 shp each, the AB 212ASW offers a maximum speed of 285 km/h and a range of over 600 km, allowing extended patrols over open water. Its reliability, ease of maintenance, and proven combat record have cemented the AB 212ASW as a cornerstone of Cold‑War and post‑Cold‑War naval aviation, shaping subsequent dedicated ASW rotorcraft designs.

Agusta

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Design & Classification