DND lauds Duterte’s plan to get more helicopters

MANILA, Philippines — The Department of National Defense (DND) yesterday lauded President Duterte’s plan to purchase more helicopters for the Philippine Air Force (PAF).

The procurement aims to replace the military’s aging Hueys following the recent crash of a UH-1H model in Bukidnon that claimed the lives of seven soldiers.

DND spokesman Arsenio Andolong said the PAF received six Blackhawks last year.

“Ten more Blackhawks will be delivered this year,” Andolong said.

He said all Hueys have been grounded for technical inspection following the Bukidnon crash.

During a visit at Camp Teodulfo Bautista in Jolo, Sulu on Friday, the President announced that he wants all Hueys decommissioned, adding that these helicopters were old.

“I will buy helicopters,” Duterte said, adding that he plans to procure six or seven more helicopters for the PAF before the end of his term.