Philippines adds last two T129B ATAK attack helicopters into service
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| Ceremonial pouring of champagne on one of the new T129Bs of the PAF. Photo c/o 15th Strike Wing. |
The Philippine Air Force’s 15th Strike Wing has formally inducted the last batch of two T129B ATAK attack helicopters, as part of an acquisition of six units from Turkish Aerospace Industries.
A simple ceremony was held last 17 May 2024 at the PAF’s Maj. Danilo Atienza Air Base in Sangley Point, Cavite, and attended by the PAF Air Combat Command chief Major General Araus Robert Musico and 15th Strike Wing commander Brigadier General Juliano Llanares.
The two attack helicopters with tail numbers 1505 and 1506 were delivered to the Philippines on December 2023, but underwent post-delivery testing and were used for further training of pilots at Clark Air Base prior to formal induction.
The T129Bs are expected to provide enhanced combat capabilities for the PAF, including addressing capability gaps identified in urban warfare.
The Philippines Department of National Defense (DND) awarded the PHP13.728 billion (US$284.8 million) contract for the Attack Helicopter Acquisition Project to Turkish Aerospace Industries in 2020, which calls for the delivery of six T129B ATAK attack helicopters.
The first batch of two helicopters were delivered on September 2021, and were operated together with older McDonnell Douglas MD-520MG Defender and Leonardo AW109E Power light armed helicopters of the unit.
The PAF has made an indication to acquire additional units to fill a complete squadron, with TAI confirming back in 2023 that talks have started between them and the DND.
[1] 15th Strike Wing, Philippine Air Force
[3] Philippine Defense Resource
Reviewed by Asia Pacific Defense Journal
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May 22, 2024
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