Latvia’s Border Guard has moved to modernize its aerial capabilities by ordering three Leonardo AW139 medium twin-engine helicopters. The procurement, valued at €80 million ($92.7 million), was finalized on May 28 and is supported by financing from the European Security Action for Europe (SAFE) loan program.
The €80 million order for the three Leonardo AW139 helicopters was placed on May 28, 2026, though the manufacturer has not yet issued a formal announcement regarding the contract.
How the SAFE program supports border security
The acquisition relies on funding provided through the European Security Action for Europe (SAFE) initiative. By utilizing these loans, the Latvian Border Guard is able to secure advanced rotary-wing assets intended to bolster its operational reach. While the manufacturer, Leonardo, has remained silent on the specifics of the deal, the agreement marks a significant investment in the country’s border patrol infrastructure.
What could happen next for the Border Guard
The introduction of the AW139s may lead to a transition in how Latvia conducts aerial surveillance and response missions. Given the medium-lift capacity of the AW139, the Border Guard might integrate these aircraft into broader regional security operations. Observers expect that the arrival of these helicopters will likely enhance the agency’s ability to monitor challenging terrain, though the exact timeline for delivery and deployment remains pending further official disclosure.
The use of SAFE loans for this purchase highlights an increasing reliance on specialized European financial instruments to upgrade defense and security hardware. For Latvia, this procurement represents a shift toward modernizing fleet assets to meet contemporary border management demands, balancing the high cost of advanced aviation technology with the necessity of maintaining robust national security.
Frequently Asked Questions
What aircraft did the Latvian Border Guard purchase?
The Border Guard ordered three Leonardo AW139 medium twin-engine helicopters.
How is the purchase being funded?
The order is funded through loans provided by the European Security Action for Europe (SAFE) program.
What is the total value of the contract?
The contract is valued at €80 million, or approximately $92.7 million.
How do you think these new helicopters will change the scope of border surveillance operations in the region?
