AFP deploys 4 new Black Hawk choppers in Eastern Mindanao

The Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) has deployed four new S-70i Black Hawk helicopters to the Eastern Mindanao Command to strengthen military combat operations, humanitarian assistance, and disaster response during calamities.

In a statement, the AFP said the four new air assets arrived at the Eastern Mindanao Command on Thursday, November 4.

Two were stationed at Tactical Operations Wing Eastern Mindanao (TOW-EM) in Davao City, while another two at Tactical Operations Group 10 Headquarters in Cagayan de Oro.

Eastern Mindanao Commander Lt. Gen. Greg Almerol said the new air assets will intensify the troops’ mobility in the fight against the communist groups and humanitarian assistance during natural calamities and disasters.

“The arrival of these Black Hawk choppers happened at a very opportune time to aid our hardworking troops in the pursuit of genuine peace and development in Eastern Mindanao,” Almerol said.

“There is no doubt that these air capabilities will improve the conduct of military operations against the communist groups and other threat groups both on land and sea,” he added.

The AFP said the S-70i Black Hawk helicopter is the latest in the family of Black Hawk multi-mission aircraft built by Poland-based Sikorsky Aircraft subsidiary PZL Mielec.

These air assets can be configured according to specific missions including troops transport and air assault, command and control, border patrol, search and rescue, disaster response, cargo lift, and VIP transport.—Richa Noriega/LDF, GMA News