Phil Navy commissions 3 naval helicopters

From the Daily Tribune (Dec 20): Phil Navy commissions 3 naval helicopters

The Philippine Navy (PN) yesterday formally commissioned into service the three AgustaWestland AW-109 “Power” helicopters.

Commissioning rites was done at the grounds of the AFP Grandstand in Camp Emilio Aguinaldo, Quezon City.

Leading the ceremonies were Department of National Defense (DND) Secretary Voltaire Gazmin, PN flag-officer-in-charge Vice Admiral Jose Luis Alano and ranking officers of the naval service.

With the commissioning, the three AW-109s can now be deployed aboard the two Gregorio Del Pilar class frigates for shipboard duties.

The helicopters arrived in the Philippines last Dec. 8.

Gazmin said that the arrival of the three AW-109s signifies the DND’s focus in upgrading the various military services.

He also stressed that modernization of the AFP will gain greater ground by next year.
Aside from their usual patrol and monitoring roles, the three helicopters can be configured into other roles declared by the PN.

Navy spokesman Lt. Cmdr. Gregory Fabic said these helicopters can be modified into speedy air ambulances, passenger carriers, and utility aircraft for the resupply of far-flung naval outpost.

He said that these configurations can be done within a few minutes and merely involves the installation of equipment needed for medical, passenger and cargo handling.

These capabilities prompted the PN to acquire the AW-109s from other helicopter units being sold in the international markets.

The AW-109 has established itself as the world’s best selling light-twin helicopter for maritime missions.

The ability to operate from small ships in high sea state enables the AW-109 to perform its mission when many others helicopters would be confined to the ship’s hangar.

Over 550 AW-109 “Power” and AW-109 light utility helicopters have been ordered for commercial, parapublic and military applications by customers in almost 50 countries.

http://www.tribune.net.ph/nation/phil-navy-commissions-3-naval-helicopters