The Philippine Air Force (PAF) has formally blessed two newly acquired Bell 412EPX utility helicopters, marking another step in its ongoing modernization program.
The ceremony was held on May 19 at Colonel Jesus Villamor Air Base in Pasay City, months after the two aircraft arrived in the country on February 27.
The helicopters are the first batch delivered under the Additional Utility Helicopter Acquisition Project, which covers the procurement of eight Bell 412EPX units from Bell Textron Inc. The remaining aircraft are expected to be delivered by 2027.
The new helicopters will be operated by the 205th Tactical Helicopter Wing and are expected to strengthen the Air Force’s tactical helilift and multi-mission capabilities.
According to the PAF, the aircraft will support troop transport for internal security and counterinsurgency operations, humanitarian assistance and disaster response missions during calamities, medical evacuation, and logistics delivery to remote and geographically isolated areas.
With the arrival of the two units, the PAF now operates 16 Bell 412 helicopters, improving its capacity for rapid deployment and sustained operations across the country.
PAF Commanding General Lt. Gen. Arthur Cordura said the new assets represent a concrete investment in the service’s readiness and operational reach.
“The arrival of these Bell 412EPX helicopters represents a clear and tangible investment in our ability to respond, to sustain, and to prevail. These aircraft will carry our troops into mission areas, bring relief to communities in times of disaster, and extend the reach of the PAF wherever it is needed most,” Cordura said.
The PAF said the acquisition forms part of its effort to build a more capable, responsive, and resilient air force that can address both national security and humanitarian needs.