The Philippine Navy (PN) formally commissioned into service
its two armed AgustaWestland AW-109E "Power" helicopters in simple
ceremonies at Naval Station Jose Andrada, on Roxas Boulevard , Manila
The helicopters are armed with .50 caliber machinegun pods
and 2.75 inch rocket launchers.
Cmdr. Lued Lincuna, PN public affairs office chief, said
that armed AW-109Es are also equipped with maritime air surveillance
capability, amphibious air support operations and weather search radar and
forward looking infrared systems that enhances the Navy's maritime air
surveillance and close air support for ground troops.
The 8 a.m. commissioning ceremonies were spearheaded by
outgoing PN flag-officer-in-command Vice Admiral Jesus C. Millan.
The last two AW-109E airframes arrived in the Philippines
This is part of the five-helicopter deal, worth
Php1.33-billion, signed by the Philippines
Three of the AW-109s were delivered and commissioned in Dec.
22, 2013.
Millan said the acquisition of the armed AW-109Es are part
of the PN's efforts in developing a robust island defense force and becoming an
effective instrument of national development.
Meanwhile, the two Australian-donated landing craft heavies
(LCHs) were also blessed Monday.
The two LCHs vessels were christened as BRP Ivatan (AT-298)
and BRP Batak (AT-299) to preserve the distinctiveness of the two ethnic groups
of Palawan and Batanes.
These ships were donated by the Australian government last
January. They arrived in Sangley Point, Cavite
http://www.pna.gov.ph/index.php?idn=1&sid=&nid=1&rid=791560
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