Air Force buys choppers that can attack at night

The Philippine Air Force on Thursday confirmed that it has purchased eight new attack helicopters with night vision capability. 

 

“Apparently, the contract has been signed and that is just one step further in the acquisition process. The final step would be the delivery as stipulated in the contract,” Air Force spokesman Col. Miguel Okol told GMA News Online in a text message.

 

The helicopter has a night-vision capability and better instrumentation with more advanced weapon system unlike other helicopters in PAF’s fleet, Okol added.

 

The AW109 Power is a three-tonne class eight-seat twin engine helicopter, which features a combination of weapon systems, according to supplier Agusta Westland.

 

“The acquisition of the AH (attack helicopter) brings to light a much welcome capability to PAF. It will complement the existing fleet of MG520’s and add punch to our close air support assets,” Okol said. “It will primarily be in the ISO (internal security operations) role.”

 

In a separate statement, Agusta Westland, the supplier of the attack helicopters, disclosed that deliveries of the eight AW109 Power light twin helicopters will start by next year.

 

“These aircraft will be used to perform a range of duties including homeland security, armed reconnaissance and close support… The contract also includes initial logistics support and training for aircrew and maintenance personnel,” the statement read.

Confirming that Agusta Westland is the supplier of the attack helicopters, Defense Undersecretary Fernando Manalo said "there will be a certain number of helicopters that will be delivered next year."

 

This is the first time that the Air Force acquired such helicopters. Once delivered, the helicopters will be based in Sangley Point in Cavite.

 

The Philippine Navy also ordered three AW109 helicopters earlier this year, according to the Anglo-Italian helicopter company. Navy spokesperson Lt. Cmdr. Gregory Fabic said the units will be delivered second week of December this year. 

 

Last July, President Benigno S.C. Aquino III vowed to beef up the Air Force fleet with attack helicopters and long-range patrol planes allocating some of the Armed Forces’ P75-billion modernization fund to PAF. — with Rouchelle R. Dinglasan/RSJ, GMA News