PAF 15th Strike Wing's 2 attack helicopters back in service
Philippine News Agency
By Priam Nepomuceno
May 29, 2025, 10:09 am
MANILA -- Two strike helicopters of the Philippine Air Force's (PAF) 15th Strike Wing were returned to active service.
The blessing rites for the "recovered aircraft" were held at the Maj. Danilo Atienza Air Base at Sangley Point, Cavite City on Wednesday.
One of the reactivated helicopters was a MD-520MG while the other one was an AW-109AH.
"The ceremony marks a significant boost to the PAF's operational readiness. A combat veteran since 1990, the MD-520MG remains a backbone of close air support missions, while the AW-109AH, introduced in 2015, brought night strike capability to the force," the PAF said in a social media post Wednesday night.
It added that the return of these aircraft beefs up the 15th Strike Wing's ability to deliver rapid and decisive airpower in support of joint operations across the archipelago.
Present during the ceremonies were PAF chief Lt. Gen. Arthur Cordura, Air Combat Command head Maj. Gen. Roman Dioso, and 15th Strike Wing commander Brig. Gen. Gerold Gagan.
Cordura reminded the 15th Strike Wing to consistently demonstrate dedication and take a proactive approach in planning and executing maintenance activities. He emphasized that these efforts should go beyond merely meeting the target operational readiness rate.
Cordura also highlighted the high stakes involved in the organization's ability to provide readily deployable air assets.
"This milestone highlights the PAF's steadfast commitment to national defense and mission readiness. The return of these aircraft reflects the skill and dedication of the airmen behind their restoration and strengthens the 15th Strike Wing's ability to deliver decisive airpower anytime, anywhere," the PAF added. (PNA)
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