PAF to buy 8 new combat utility helicopters

MANILA, Philippines - The Philippine Air Force (PAF) said yesterday it will buy eight brand new combat utility helicopters this year as part of efforts to boost its capabilities.

In a statement, PAF spokesman Lt. Col. Gerardo Zamudio Jr. said a purchase contract for the helicopters had been sent last Thursday to PZL Swidnik, an aircraft manufacturer based in Poland.

Zamudio said the acquisition of the helicopters, at a cost of P3 billion, is intended to increase PAF’s operational readiness and to augment its existing aircraft inventory.

He said they expect to sign the contract with the European aircraft manufacturer this year.

Once the government and PZL Swidnik ink the contract, the Defense department can already request funding.

“The arrival of said helicopters will greatly improve our combat air support... Combat utility helicopters are the backbone of the AFP (Armed Forces of the Philippines) in inserting, extricating and moving troops and military supplies in various operational areas all over the country,” PAF commanding general Lt. Gen. Oscar Rabena said.

“This will also increase our search and rescue capabilities,” he added.

Zamudio said the bidding for the helicopters was held late last year.

Defense and PAF officials, however, have been planning the purchase of helicopters as early as May 2009.

Rabena said the P3-billion required for the purchase is already available and is part of the AFP Capability Upgrade Program.

Aside from the helicopters, the PAF is also planning to acquire three fixed wing light lift aircraft and an upgraded C-130 plane.