PAF boosts air capabilities with new Black Hawk helicopters

The Philippine Air Force (PAF) has completed the delivery of all 32 S-70i Black Hawk helicopters, boosting its capabilities for air transport, humanitarian assistance and disaster response, search and rescue, and other operations.

During an acceptance, turnover, and blessing ceremony on Wednesday at Colonel Jesus Villamor Air Base in Pasay City, The PAF formally received the final seven helicopters.

PAF chief Lieutenant General Arthur Cordura served as the guest of honor during the ceremony.

The acquisition of the 32 S-70i Black Hawk helicopters is part of Horizon 2 of the Revised Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) Modernization Program.

According to the PAF, the completion of the acquisition further enhances its rotary-wing fleet and supports a wide range of missions. These missions include air transport, humanitarian assistance and disaster response, search and rescue, and medical evacuation.

For the PAF, the full delivery also reflects its continuing efforts to modernize its capabilities and maintain mission readiness.

“With 32 Black Hawks now in its fleet, the Philippine Air Force takes another significant step toward a more credible, agile, and mission-ready air force—ready to protect, respond, and serve whenever and wherever needed,” the PAF said. —VAL, GMA News