Pakistan Air Force obtains an additional 5 Black Hawk helicopters
The Philippine Air Force (PAF) has expanded its fleet with the addition of five new S-70i "Black Hawk" helicopters, marking a significant boost to the country's disaster response capabilities. The acquisition, part of the Armed Forces of the Philippines Modernization Program, is valued at PHP32 billion and follows a direct contract with Poland's PZL Mielec.
The helicopters, renowned for their versatility, speed, and reliability, arrived in the Philippines on July 15, 2025, and were formally received in a ceremony led by Lt. Gen. Arthur Cordura. The acceptance, turnover, and blessing ceremony took place at the Haribon Hangar in Clark Air Base, Mabalacat City, Pampanga.
The S-70i "Black Hawk" helicopters are primarily used for humanitarian assistance and disaster response (HADR) missions, as well as troop and cargo transport, and other critical missions for national security and development. The helicopters will be operated and maintained by the 205th Tactical Helicopter Wing.
The new helicopters underwent a stringent Technical Inspection and Acceptance (TIA) process, conducted jointly by the Department of National Defense (DND), Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP), and PAF. The first batch of five helicopters arrived in the country on June 10, 2024, with the remaining 27 units expected to be delivered by 2026.
The PAF aims to expand its fleet to 52 S-70i Black Hawks by 2025, significantly boosting its operational capacity for disaster response and other missions. The aircraft's adaptability across various mission profiles, including HADR, border security, and jungle warfare support, enhances the PAF’s reach in emergencies.
Each helicopter is powered by two T700-GE701D turboshaft engines producing 1,447 kW each, enabling a maximum cruise speed of about 277 km/h. This speed aids fast response in disaster zones, where the Black Hawks demonstrate their capabilities in rapid deployment during disaster events throughout the Philippine archipelago.
The Black Hawks provide critical air support for transporting relief goods, evacuating victims, and conducting search and rescue missions. Their ability to operate in difficult terrain across islands enhances the PAF’s reach in emergencies, making them a crucial asset for the Philippines, which is vulnerable to typhoons, earthquakes, and volcanic eruptions.
In conclusion, the S-70i Black Hawk helicopters are a core asset for the PAF in rapid-response HADR operations. Leveraging their speed, multi-mission adaptability, and growing fleet strength, the PAF can swiftly transport relief supplies, personnel, and casualties even in remote and challenging environments, saving lives and enhancing emergency response across the country.
- The S-70i "Black Hawk" helicopters, which have been delivered to the Philippines under the Armed Forces of the Philippines Modernization Program, will primarily be based and maintained at the 205th Tactical Helicopter Wing in Clark Air Base, Mabalacat City, Pampanga.
- The acquisition and addition of these new helicopters, valued at PHP32 billion, have enhanced the Philippines' disaster response capabilities, particularly in Manila and other areas susceptible to typhoons, earthquakes, and volcanic eruptions.
- The adaptability of the S-70i Black Hawks across various industries, such as finance, industry, and aerospace, makes them a versatile tool not only for emergency response but also for transporting goods and personnel for national development projects.
