5th Batch of Black Hawks Strengthens PAF Helicopter Fleet

25 Januari 2026

Five units of S-70i Black Hawks helicopters formally joined PAF (photos: PAF)

The Philippine Air Force (PAF) formally accepted five (5) units of S-70i Black Hawk Utility Helicopters and eight (8) units of M134D-H Gatling Guns during a Joint Acceptance, Turnover, and Blessing Ceremony held on January 23, 2026, at Colonel Jesus Villamor Air Base, Pasay City. This delivery marks the fifth batch, bringing the total to 25 units out of the 32 units programmed under the Department of National Defense (DND) and Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) modernization initiatives.

The ceremony, conducted through the Air Force Systems Engineering and Modernization Office (AFSEMO), was graced by Honorable Rolando U Toledo, Acting Secretary of the Department of Budget and Management, as Guest of Honor. Lieutenant General Arthur M Cordura PAF, Commanding General of the Philippine Air Force, actively participated in the turnover rites.

During the event, the aircraft and their armament documents were formally received by Brigadier General Moises L Micor PAF, Wing Commander of the 205th Tactical Helicopter Wing. The new air assets are set to significantly enhance the PAF’s air mobility, operational readiness, and disaster response capabilities.

In his message, Hon. Toledo highlighted the strategic importance of modernizing the Air Force, stating, “A modern, capable, and mission-ready Air Force is no longer optional, it is essential,” emphasizing the government’s commitment to ensuring the PAF remains prepared for evolving security and humanitarian challenges.

The acquisition of these platforms reflects the PAF’s continuous efforts to strengthen mission readiness, support joint and combined operations, and respond effectively to both national security and humanitarian requirements. Through capability development initiatives under the AFP Modernization Program, the Philippine Air Force remains committed to building a mission-oriented, capability-driven, and values-based force ready to meet the nation’s dynamic needs.

(PAF)