The Philippines has reinforced its air combat prowess with the receipt of the final two T129 combat helicopters from Turkish Aerospace Industries, cementing its military modernization efforts amid regional tensions.
The completion of this $269 million deal, which experienced delays, marks a significant advancement for the Philippine Air Force (PAF), now better equipped to handle urban warfare scenarios.
After a year’s delay, the last pair of T129 ATAK helicopters touched down at Major Danilo Atienza Air Base in Cavite on May 17, as announced by the PAF.
This procurement is a crucial part of the Horizon 2 program, aimed at modernizing the Philippine military forces.
Officials from the Air Combat Command, including the wing commander of the 15th Strike Wing, were present at a ceremony commemorating the helicopters’ arrival.
Dubbed as No. 1505 and No. 1506, these aircraft are part of a government-to-government agreement with Turkey, initially scheduled for delivery in early 2023.
The PAF noted in a release, “These helicopters, known for their high performance in hot, high, and maritime conditions, are expected to significantly enhance the air force’s combat capabilities, particularly in urban warfare scenarios.”
The T129 ATAK is a twin-engine attack helicopter, adapted from the Leonardo A129 Mangusta and is equipped with advanced observation and targeting systems.
It boasts an impressive arsenal including a 20mm three-barreled cannon and the capacity to launch anti-tank missiles and rockets.
The PAF has historically struggled with precision strikes during urban conflicts, as witnessed during the 2017 siege in Marawi. The acquisition of the T129 is a response to close these capability gaps.
In addition to the T129 helicopters, the PAF’s arsenal has been augmented with second-hand Bell AH-1S Super Cobras from Jordan and a continued investment in Sikorsky S-70i Black Hawks, highlighting the country’s concerted efforts to upgrade its rotary-wing capabilities.
Philippine Army Chief of Staff Gen. Romeo Brawner has indicated the necessity of aligning the country’s military modernization with the need to safeguard its territories in these contested waters.
The helicopters are expected to play a defensive role in protecting the Philippine’s claimed islands.This delivery from Turkey underscores the growing global footprint of Turkish defense exports.
T129 ATAK helicopters have become a significant symbol of Turkey’s burgeoning defense industry, with other customers including Nigeria, which received its first batch of T129s in November 2023, and Pakistan, which ran into export license issues with the United States over the helicopter’s engine.
With improved equipment and training adaptations post-Marawi siege, the Philippine military aims to fortify its urban warfare capabilities, countering the complexity of modern combat landscapes and enhancing national defense.
Relevant articles:
– Philippines receives two delayed T129 combat helicopters, Defense News
– Manila receives final pair of T129 ATAKs, flightglobal.com
– Philippine Air Force Receives Last Two of Six Turkish T129 Attack Helicopters, The Aviationist