Leonardo - Finmeccanica announced that an industrial and trade partnership agreement was signed with the Algerian Ministry of National Defense 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 Aïn 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 Defense and other customers. The industrial program will also support the development of high technology capabilities in the field of aeronautical material production.