MANILA -- The Philippine Air Force (PAF) has selected the S-70 Black Hawk from Lockheed Martin's Sikorsky as its preferred platform to meet its combat-utility helicopter program requirement. Defense Secretary Delfin Lorenzana confirmed the choice on December 7, adding that the proposed procurement is for 16 helicopters. Lorenzana also added that the deal valued at $240 million will hopefully be finalized in 2019.
The Black Hawk procurement fills the replacement gap that emerged when a $235 million deal with Canada for 16 Bell 412EPI models was cancelled earlier this year. Concerns emerged in Canada over the Philippines poor human rights record and how the helicopters might be used by Philippine President Rodrigo Duterte who has conducted a controversial campaign against drug traffickers inside the country. In turn Duterte refused to have restrictions placed on the Philippines over equipment it purchases.
Once acquired, the Black Hawks will be operated by the PAF's 205th Tactical Helicopter Wing.
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