The modernization of the Armed Forces of the
Philippines (AFP) specifically the Philippine Air Force takes a slightly
different path in attaining the necessary military hardware for the fulfillment
of its mandate.
It was reported that the AFP is set to procure 16
units of Mi-17 medium-lift helicopters with a total worth of P12.5 billion,
The acquisition of the medium lift choppers increases
the air capability of the PAF to respond to the different military missions as
well as in times of Humanitary Assistance and Disaster Relief(HADR) operations.
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| Russia's Mi-17 medium-lift helicopter (photo credit to owner) |
It was reported that each helicopter costs $14.7
million. The procurement of such by the AFP is a first, since traditionally we
have been sourcing our war materials from western countries mainly from the US
and from NATO countries.
The said procurement is expected to be one of the
agreements that will be signed during President Rodrigo Roa Duterte’s second
visit to Russia. As per the president’s schedule he will be meeting Russian
President Vladimir Putin to discuss a variety of topics and concern for both
countries.
Duterte during the last anniversary of the PAF
vowed to strengthen the unit by acquisition of the much needed air assets, the
PAF is the second highest beneficiary of budget allocation next to the
Philippine Navy (PN).
“I am hoping and praying that before my remaining
three years expire, all of these things, especially the labeled ‘Horizon
Projects’ of yours, will be completed during my term,” Duterte said then.
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Report from Business Mirror
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