Article Posted on : - Apr 09, 2013

Philippine Navy's AW109 helicopter. Photo: AgustaWestland

ROME (BNS): The Philippine Navy has signed a contract with AgustaWestland, a Finmeccanica company, for three AW109 Power maritime helicopters.

According to AgustaWestland, the aircraft will be delivered in 2014 and will operate from both shore and ship bases. The contract includes initial logistics support and training for aircrew and maintenance personnel.

The helicopters will be used for a wide range of naval missions including economic zone protection, surface surveillance, SAR and maritime security.

The AW109 Power is a three-tonne class eight seat helicopter powered by two Pratt & Whitney PW206C engines with FADEC. It has a spacious cabin designed to be fitted with a number of modular equipment packages for quick and easy conversion between roles.

The aircraft's safety features include a fully separated fuel system, dual hydraulic boost system, dual electrical systems and redundant lubrication and cooling systems for the main transmission and engines.

For shipboard operations the aircraft has a reinforced-wheeled landing gear and deck mooring points as well as extensive corrosion protection measures.