Air Force pilots return with AW109 attack skills

From Ang Malaya (Nov 24): Air Force pilots return with AW109 attack skills

Lt. Gen. Jeffrey Delgado, Philippine Air Force commanding officer, announced that the six pilots for the brand-new AgustaWestland AW-109 attack helicopters who went for a training last July are set to return to the Philippines on December.

“They will be arriving home this December,” Lt. Gen. Delgado said.

The pilots’ training which is part of the acquisition package is being conducted at Costa Di Samarate, Italy.

First batch, two out of eight ordered armed AW109 Power, is scheduled to be delivered by January 2015. The AW-109 attack helicopter contact worth Php3.44 billion was signed by PAF and AgustaWestland last November 2013.

These attack helicopter will carryout missions like armed reconnaissance, homeland security and close support.

According to AgustaWestland, “the Philippine Air Force’s AW109 Power configuration will feature a dedicated mission package and equipment including a combination of weapon systems. 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 (PAF) deserves,” AgustaWestland Chief Executive Officer Daniele Romiti said.

http://www.angmalaya.net/nation/2014/11/24/5944-air-force-pilots-return-with-aw109-attack-skills