“Today’s ceremony is a very welcome event
for the enhancement of the operational readiness of the Philippine Air
Force. Our acquisition of these brand-new airbuses shall certainly boost
the fire-fighting capabilities of our air force in accordance with armed
defense’s certain goals,” Gazmin said, who was the guest
of honor during the blessing and turn-over rites for the air defense
assets.
Gazmin explained that the placement of the aircrafts in the air force
inventory will boost its development of mission essentials and capabilities,
mobility, firepower and accuracy, communications and survival mobility,
and the ability to detect threat elements.”
Meanwhile, the other four Sokol helicopters will arrive in the country
in November, said PAF Public Information Office chief Lt. Col. Miguel
Ernesto Okol.
This undertaking is part of P2.8-billion contract signed between PZL-Swidnik
SA and PAF in 2010, which includes a total of eight Sokol helicopters
plus ground support equipment, spare parts, support services, and training
for aircrew and maintainers.
Aircrew and maintainer training for the initial batch of aircraft were
completed last month in Poland before the aircraft were air freighted
to the Philippines.
PAF’s Sokols or “Falcon” in Polish are equipped with
the latest navigation and avionics systems including a night vision
goggle compatible cockpit, allowing it to operate day and night in all
weather conditions.
This 6-ton class helicopter can transport up to 11 troops in the cabin
or can lift up to 2,100 kilograms using its external cargo hook. The
aircraft can also be fitted with a M60D machine gun on each side of
the cabin.
PZL-Swidnik is Poland’s only helicopter company with the capability
to design, develop and manufacture its own helicopters. It has its own
Research and Development Center and with 3,500 employees is also the
biggest aerospace manufacturer in Poland. (WLB/JGB-PIA 3)
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