AgustaWestland, a Finmeccanica company, announced that the Philippine Air Force has signed a contract for eight AW109 Power light twin helicopters. These aircraft will be used to perform a range of duties including homeland security, armed reconnaissance and close support. Deliveries will start in 2014. The contract also includes initial logistics support and training for aircrew and maintenance personnel.

This contract further expands the presence of AgustaWestland in the Philippine helicopter market and adds one more military customer for the AW109 Power model in this country, following an order for three aircraft by the Philippine Navy earlier this year to enhance the service’s maritime operational capability. The Philippine Air Force’s AW109 Power configuration will feature a dedicated mission package and equipment including a combination of weapon systems.