GOING BEYOND TRAINING
While training is the Stormo’s primary mission, its aircraft and crews also contribute to national and international operations. Supporting civil protection during natural disasters and conducting search-and-rescue missions are part of the job. Over the years, TH-500Bs were deployed to Albania (Italian humanitarian operation Arcobaleno, 1999-2000), Eritrea (United Nations Mission in Ethiopia and Eritrea, 2000-2001) and Kosovo (Kosovo Force, 2000-2003). The deployed aircraft provided reconnaissance, liaison and light transport support in these missions.
When asked about its capabilities, Fiorini said the TH-500B can be fitted with light machine guns and rocket pods, primarily for training purposes. “Our flight school does not operate armed helicopters at all. The last time one of our TH-500Bs was actually deployed in a weapons role was during the peacekeeping operations in Kosovo in the early 2000s.”
FLYING INTO THE FUTURE
Although the Italian Air Force has been operating the TH-500B for 35 years, this veteran helicopter still has value, even alongside the Italian cutting-edge fleet that includes the Lockheed Martin F-35A, Boeing KC-767, and Aermacchi M-346. To keep the aircraft type future-proof, a midlife update is underway to bring in a new digital avionics suite with modern multifunction displays. A recent
upgrade already saw its rotor blades replaced. Yet the real secret to the TH-500B’s longevity lies in its character. Pilots continue to praise its reliability and easy handling — qualities that make it an ideal entry level trainer.
“In the near future, the wing will play a leading role at Rome Viterbo, a commercial and military airport nearby, to establish a joint-force helicopter training school,” Fiorini said. “The Italian Air Force will act as the lead service with other state agencies, and the 72nd Wing will be the core structure upon which these new capabilities will be developed.” This means the Stormo might move to another location in the future, although an official statement or choice on this matter has not been made.
The colonel declined to elaborate on the number of helicopters currently in service; that is classified information. Although the older type still has value, Italian Air Force headquarters is currently in the process of defining a new aircraft to replace the TH-500B fleet in the future. A type has not yet been chosen.
The future will reveal which platform best serves the next generation of pilots. What will remain is every student’s first tentative hover. The legacy of the Samba will continue to dance in the Italian sky.
The 72nd Wing instructors train pilots for Italy's fire and rescue service, “Vigili del Fuoco.”
rotorpro.com
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