As part of the scheduled deliveries of a fleet of thirty-two helicopters acquired in 2022, Lockheed Martin, through its Polish subsidiary PZL Mielec, completed the delivery of five new S-70i Black Hawk helicopters to the Philippine Air Force. These add to the ten aircraft that were handed over to the island nation during 2024. The corresponding reception ceremony took place on August 13 at Clark Air Base in the city of Mabalacat, attended by Lieutenant General Arthur Cordura, Commanding General of the institution.
In detail, the aircraft are reported to have arrived in Philippine territory in mid-July, completing what was the third batch of S-70i Black Hawk helicopters to equip the Philippine Air Force. The first batch, also consisting of five units, arrived in June 2024, while the second was delivered in December. It is also worth noting that Manila already operated a fleet of fifteen helicopters provided by PZL Mielec prior to the signing of the aforementioned 2022 contract.
In all cases, the helicopters acquired under the program to modernize the Philippines’ air capabilities have undergone a strict Technical Inspection and Acceptance process, carried out by the Philippine Air Force and the Department of National Defense, with the purpose of ensuring that all S-70i aircraft comply with established operational requirements. Once cleared, they are assigned to the 205th Tactical Helicopter Wing, which operates under the Air Mobility Command.
Furthermore, expanding on what is known regarding the Philippine acquisition of new helicopters, it should be mentioned that the country invested $620 million to complete the deal, making it one of the largest orders for this variant of the aircraft since its launch. The intent behind the purchase is to add new systems that will mainly support troop airlift missions and humanitarian operations to mitigate the effects of natural disasters.
In connection with this, it is useful to recall that the aircraft are delivered in their utility configuration, which includes the capability to carry up to 9,000 pounds of cargo on the external hook. They are also equipped with a fully integrated digital cockpit featuring a four-axis coupled flight director, a new color weather radar, and an Integrated Vehicle Health Management System (IVHMS).
Image credits: Philippine Air Force
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