NAVAL STATION JOSE ANDRADA, Manila – The weapon system projected to be fitted on the AW159 anti-submarine warfare helicopters of the Philippine Navy (PN) was test fired at Marine Base Gregorio Lim firing range in Ternate, Cavite.
Said test firing was an essential part of the inspection conducted by the AFP Technical Inspection and Acceptance Committee (TIAC) led by Western Command Chief, Vice Adm. Alberto Carlos.
Also witnessing the inspection were officials from the Procurement System Office of the Department of National Defense; Naval Air Wing Commander, Commo. Juario Marayag; representatives from PN’s Office for Plans and Programs; and project proponents from Leonardo United Kingdom.
The AW159 Wildcat Helicopter, a British license-built multi-role military helicopter developed by Leonardo UK, is a significant addition to the PN’s maritime air assets and an integral part of the Jose Rizal Class Anti-submarine frigate’s firepower.
The acquisition of these helicopters is a crucial capability upgrade for the PN, enhancing its anti-submarine and maritime security operations capabilities. The inclusion of the .50 caliber heavy machine gun further enhances the aircraft’s mission capabilities, providing the AFP with a potent weapon system to combat potential threats in the maritime domain.
