Pasay city: The Philippine Air Force (PAF) on Wednesday said its tactical airlift and disaster response capabilities received a major boost following the formal commissioning of two brand new Bell 412EPX utility helicopters.
According to Philippines News Agency, PAF spokesperson Col. Ma. Christina Basco stated that the acceptance of the new aircraft marks another "significant milestone in the ongoing modernization and capability enhancement efforts" of PAF. The two aircraft arrived in the country on Feb. 27, 2026, representing the first batch delivery under the Additional Utility Helicopter Acquisition Project, which involves the procurement of eight Bell 412EPX helicopters from Bell Textron Inc. The remaining six helicopters are expected to be delivered in 2027, Basco added.
The new Bell 412EPX helicopters, which were formally blessed at the Villamor Air Base, Pasay City on Tuesday, will be operated by the 205th Tactical Helicopter Wing and are expected to significantly enhance the PAF's tactical helilift and multi-mission operational capabilities. "The aircraft will primarily support troop transport for counterinsurgency and internal security operations, disaster relief and humanitarian assistance missions during calamities such as typhoons and earthquakes, as well as medical evacuation and logistics support in geographically isolated and remote areas," Basco said.
With the arrival of the two helicopters, the PAF now has a total of 16 Bell 412 aircraft in its inventory, further strengthening its capability for rapid deployment and sustained nationwide operations. Meanwhile, PAF chief Lt. Gen. Arthur Cordura, in the same statement, underscored the strategic importance of the newly acquired helicopters in enhancing mission readiness and operational effectiveness. "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," he said.
