AFP chief: We have capable helicopters arriving

From Ang Malaya (Oct 13): AFP chief: We have capable helicopters arriving

“We have capable helicopters arriving for the PAF,” Armed Forces of the Philippines Chief General Gregorio Pio Catapang said while doing rounds in Sulu. He noted that these helicopters will be capable of operating in the dark.

AgustaWestland is set to deliver AW-109 helicopters until July of 2015. “We are expecting delivery of eight AgustaWestland AW-109 attack helicopters starting January to July 2015,” Philippine Air Force said previously. While the Philippine Navy sees December 2014 for delivery.

Both Philippine Navy and Philippine Air Force are waiting for armed variant of AW-109 choppers. AgustaWestland will be delivering two units for Navy and eight units for Philippine Air Force. The procurement is under AFP Modernization.

Philippine Navy is already operating three unarmed variant of AW-109.

Last July, eight pilots and twenty-two maintenance personnel for the said attack helicopters have trained in Italy.

“The Philippine Air Force’s AW109 Power configuration will feature a dedicated mission package and equipment including a combination of weapon systems,” says AgustaWestland. “These aircraft will be used to perform a range of duties including homeland security, armed reconnaissance and close support.”

“We are committed to deliver the improved mission capabilities and high quality services the customer (AFP) deserves,” said Daniele Romiti, AgustaWestland Chief Executive Officer.

http://www.angmalaya.net/nation/2014/10/13/4921-afp-chief-we-have-capable-helicopters-arriving