NEWS CENTER – The first Turkish-made attack helicopters were officially delivered to the Philippine Air Force (PAF) on April 2022 as the two countries continue talks that could pave the way for new defense deals. Two T129 Tactical Reconnaissance and Attack Helicopters (ATAK) arrived in the Philippines and were subject to a technical inspection and flight tests.
Philippines had ordered six helicopters designed and developed by Turkish Aerospace Industries (TAI) in 2020, in a deal that is said to be worth approximately $280 million. The Philippines is the first country abroad to use the ATAK.
An Airbus C-295 tactical transport aircraft also entered the air force’s inventory at the event at Col. Jesus Villamor Air Base, attended by Philippines Defense Minister Delfin Negrillo Lorenzana, head of Turkish Presidency of Defense Industries (SSB) Ismail Demir, Turkey’s Ambassador to Manila Artemiz Sümer, TAI CEO Temel Kotil and many other officials and executives.
Demir said the two countries were in talks on several other projects, in addition to ATAK.
“Within the framework of the state-to-state agreement, we have made a fundamental move to improve our relations in the defense industry. Our various companies have some ongoing work here. As a result of those works, other products may hopefully come into play after ATAK. We have created a framework to develop and strengthen defense industry cooperation on the basis of friendship and common interest,” Demir added.
TAI’s Kotil said they would complete the delivery of all six helicopters within 2022, and also noted there were additional demands from the Philippines. As part of the second package of ATAK helicopters, a draft price offer is said to have been conveyed to the Philippines and negotiations have started.
Turkish defense industry companies have so far exported multiple defense products to the Philippines, including armored vehicles, ammunition, light arms and night vision binoculars.
The sale of the T129 helicopters had been delayed due to the export license barrier but the process gained momentum after the United States greenlighted the export of the choppers, powered by an American engine, in May.
