Philippines formalizes order for 32 new Sikorsky-PZL Mielec S-70i Black Hawk combat utility helicopters
Some of the PAF's new S-70i Black Hawk helicopters. Photo c/o Philippine Air Force. |
The Philippines' Department of National Defense (DND) has confirmed on 22 February 2022 that it signed a contract with Polish aviation company PZL Mielec for the delivery of 32 new Sikorsky S-70i Black Hawk combat utility helicopters.
The US$624 million deal involves the delivery of the Black Hawk helicopters to the Philippine Air Force (PAF) starting 2023, and completing delivery of all units by 2026.
Initial Logistics Support Package, and pilot and crew training are also included in the deal.
PZL Mielec is a subsidiary of Sikorsky Aircraft, and manufactures the S-70i Black Hawk International for the export market, and was represented by its President, Mr. Janusz Zakrecki during the contract signing ceremonies held in the DND's office in Quezon City.
Negotiations between the two parties have been ongoing since 2020, as the PAF plans to acquire additional new helicopters after an earlier deal for 16 new S-70i Black Hawks signed in 2019.
The DND has awarded the project to PZL Mielec last January 2022, and confirmed that budget for the initial payment has been allocated by the Philippines' Department of Budget and Management.
These new helicopters are expected to be operated by the PAF's 205th Tactical Helicopter Wing, and will replace the PAF's ageing Bell UH-1D and UH-1H Huey combat utility helicopters that are currently in limited operation after a series of fatal accidents.
These helicopters will also complement the Bell 412EP combat utility helicopters also utilized by the PAF for multi-role missions including combat support, insertion and extraction, general transport including humanitarian assistance and disaster relief (HADR) support.
[1] Philippines Department of National Defense
[2] Philippine Defense Resource
[3] Asia Pacific Defense Journal
Philippines formalizes order for 32 new Sikorsky-PZL Mielec S-70i Black Hawk combat utility helicopters
Reviewed by Asia Pacific Defense Journal
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February 22, 2022
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