MANILA (PNA) - To keep its McDonnell Douglas MG-520 "Defender" attack helicopter fleet flying, the Philippine Air Force (PAF) has allocated Php 16,226,432.11 to acquire essential spare parts for the aircraft.
This is in line with PAF efforts to increase the number of mission and combat ready aircraft in its inventory while awaiting for the delivery of more modern jet fighters and attack helicopters.
Pre-bid conference is slated for Feb. 26 while bid opening and submission is on March 11.
Both are slated for 9 a.m. at the PAF Procurement Center Conference Room, Villamor Air Base, Pasay City.
The PAF is known to operate between 12 to 16 models of the MG-520, according to military sources.
The PAF affair with the MG-520 started in the early 90's when 25 units of these excellent aircraft were delivered to country.
It was used with great effect against New People's Army (NPA) rebels and lawless elements like the Abu Sayyaf Group for the past few years.
The MG-520 is derived from the MG-500 light utility helicopter.
It can be armed with .50 caliber heavy machines and air-to-ground rockets.
The aircraft carries a crew of two and is capable of flying to speeds up to 160 miles per hour (257 kilometers per hour), making it ideal for close air support work.
(PNA)
The Philippine Air Force should also prioritize the MD-520s Mid-Life Update (MLU) essential parts are useless if the aircrafts are not available due to structural and engine issues. As mentioned we still have a good quantity of MD-520s operational let us keep it that way and if we could squeeze more budget repair salvagable airframes.
BalasHapus