First two Philippine T129 ATAK delivered

Finally, on 9 March 2022, the first two TAI T129 ATAK multi role, all weather attack helicopters, serials 1501 and 1502, for the Hukbong Himpapawid ng Pilipinas (PAF, Philippine Air Force) arrived at Clark Air Base (Philippines).

The helicopters were delivered onboard two Turkish Air Force A400M transporters. Earlier, Scramble Magazine reported that the first T129s were already expected to be delivered in December 2021. For unknown reasons this has been delayed with three months.

In November 2018, the PAF selected the T129 ATAK, but it took until May 2021 until the US State Department gave the permission for the export of the US produced parts. The T129 is powered by two LHTEC T800-4A turboshaft engines which are produced through a joint venture between the US firm Honeywell and the British company Rolls-Royce. The current requirement is for six T129s, but the deal could be expanded with another six.

Photo via DefenceHub (twitter)