The Philippines has issued a tender for two anti-submarine warfare helicopters, with bidding to commence on 21 October.
In a bidding document posted on its web site, the Department of National Defence says that the budget for the two helicopters is Ps5.4 billion ($120 million). This amount will also cover weapons, key equipment, and logistics support.
Manila is in the process of recapitalising its military in the context of simmering territorial disputes with China in the South China Sea.
Flightglobal’s World Air Forces directory shows that the Filipino navy has a modest aviation component, with just six Britten-Norman BN-2 Islander aircraft and four Airbus Helicopters Bo105s.
In addition, Manila has orders for eight AgustaWestland AW109s, which the navy will use for patrol, surveillance, and search and rescue duties.
Source: FlightGlobal.com
