Is Italy's Leonardo involved in engine supply for T129B Attack Helicopters for the Philippine Air Force?

 

Previous posts we made confirmed that the Department of National Defense (DND) already released the Notice of Award (NOA) for the Philippine Air Force's Attack Helicopter Acquisition Project in favor of Turkey's Turkish Aerospace Industries (TAI), and has signed the contract with TAI a few months ago.

This was after TAI, which offered its T129B ATAK attack helicopter, was selected by the PAF for the project, and the DND's Bids and Awards Committee finding TAI and the T129B ATAK meeting all requirements it submitted as part of the tender.

The TAI T129B ATAK attack helicopter, which is contracted for delivery to the Philippine Air Force. Photo credited to Reddit.

But due to issues surrounding Turkey's ability to have a steady supply of US-made engines, specifically the LHTEC CTS800 turboshaft engines, due to Countering America's Adversaries Through Sanctions Act (CAATSA) being potentially imposed on Turkey, the DND delayed the project's contract signing with TAI. And even when the contract was signed, the DND held the release of the Notice to Proceed (NTP) for sometime.

CAATSA Against Turkey:

According to MaxDefense's military, defense and industry sources, as well as sources from the US, all confirmed that Turkey was indeed affected by the declining relations with the US, and has failed to get the export license for the supply of LHTEC CTS800 turboshaft engines powering the T129B ATAK attack helicopters.

The LHTEC CTS800 turboshaft engine, the main issue of TAI's problems to supply the T129 attack helicopter to the Philippines. Photo credited to Honeywell Aerospace.

The ban, which was said to have been set in early 2020, jeopardized TAI's export of the T129B ATAK, in addition to its existing contract to supply 30 units to the Pakistani Army, and a potential to sealing a deal with the Philippines DND to supply 6 units plus follow-on orders for the Philippine Air Force.

Without the engines, it would be impossible for Turkey to close its deals, and secure further export orders in the global market.

Further information shares to us by American sources confirmed that in early 2020, the DND was urged to talk to the US Embassy and to Joint US Military Advisory Group - Philippines (JUSMAG Philippines) to confirm the US government's export license rejection. But for some reason, the DND did not make an official enquiry, which could  have allowed the US government to provide a formal reply and explain the situation to the DND.

Turkey's insistence to procure the Russian S-400 long range air defense system (above), plus its activities in Syria and Armenia may have contributed to the rejection of export license of the LHTEC engines. Photo credits to Popular Mechanics.

The Waiting Game:

Between the time the NOA for the PAF's Attack Helicopter Acquisition Project was released to TAI up until mid 2020, the DND was said to be in continuous talks with TAI and the Turkish government regarding the issue of the helicopter engines and avionics availability, despite a contract already signed between the 2 parties.

Before the contract was signed between the DND and TAI, the PAF was getting ready for a possible cancellation of the NOA with TAI, and it made a re-evaluation of the project which resulted to the selection of an American-made helicopter as a possible replacement to the T129B ATAK.

Among those reconsidered were the Bell AH-1Z Viper (top) and the Sikorsky S-70i Armed Black Hawk (above). Photos credits to Flight Global and Defense News.

For some reason, the DND decided to continue negotiations with TAI, despite the growing list of reasons for the US government to reject its export of the LHTEC engines to Turkey, and even further imposing more sanctions against Turkey. Apparently, Turkey gave a guarantee to the DND that they can supply the helicopters with the complete engines and avionics, which was the reason why the DND continued with signing a contract with TAI.

A few months ago, we received confirmation from DND sources that Turkey negotiated with the DND on the Notice to Proceed (NTP). Apparently, TAI was pushing for the release of the Notice to Proceed (NTP) to be put on-hold. This is to allow TAI enough time to secure the LHTEC engines, and delay the start of production of the helicopters and the delivery date as this would be based on the date the NTP was released by TAI.

This is unfair to the Philippine side, since Turkey securing the LHTEC engines may take years considering its poor situation with the US government. If TAI never get to secure the engines, it means they are not liable for late deliveries should the Philippines agree to such arrangements.

Use of Turkish Engines Not an Option:

Despite Turkey developing a new indigenous turbine engine to power locally-made helicopters like the T129 ATAK and the T625 Gokbey helicopters, Turkey itself confirmed that development and testing of the engines are still ongoing, and it will take a few years for the engine to reach serial production, most likely by 2024 at earliest.

MaxDefense also mentioned before that testing, type certification of the T129 powered by the new engine, and other processes will take years, and it would be too late for the PAF and DND if it waiting for the local engine to be used on the T129 attack helicopter.

Even within the PAF and DND, it appears that the use of unproven Turkish engines are out of the question, as a major subsystem like an engine will need to meet the Philippines' legal government procurement and AFP modernization acquisition requirements that requires it to be a proven product.

The PAF being made as a guinea pig is definitely not acceptable.

The TEI TS1400 turboshaft engine from Turkey is still far from production, and is still an unproven product even by then. Photo credits to Defense Turkey Magazine.

Turkey Provides Guarantee to Supply Complete Helicopter:

Recenty, our sources confirmed that the DND has recently released the 15% initial payment for the Attack Helicopter Acquisition Project, which means that the DND already has released the NTP for the project. Thus, it means that TAI is now legally liable for the delivery of the helicopters for the PAF.

This also means that the DND has accepted the guarantee from TAI and the Turkish government that they can supply the T129B ATAK attack helicopters with the needed engines and avionics, and provide support, spares and logistics needs for the aircraft.

So how did Turkey get a secure source of LHTEC engines for the Philippine T129Bs?

According to our sources, the engines would be supplied through TAI's Italian partner on the T129 program, defense conglomerate Leonardo.

The A129 Mangusta attack helicopter, which is the basis of the T129 ATAK attack helicopter. This example is with the Italian Army. Photo credits to Airliners.net.

For those who are unfamiliar, the T129 ATAK was actually based on the Agusta A129 Mangusta (Mongoose), which is now a legacy product of Leonardo. The T129 is essentially an A129 helicopter but was modernized and improved by TAI, while using a large percentage of Turkish subsystems and parts, and integration with Turkish-developed munitions. The A129 uses the less powerful and older Rolls Royce Gem 2-1004D engines.

Also, Leonardo has good experience with the LHTEC CTS800 turbine engine as it also powers the AgustaWestland AW159 Wildcat naval helicopters. And to make things better for TAI, Leonardo is supporting the CTS800 engines found on the AW159 Wildcat helicopters of the Philippine Navy.

Leonardo has partners in the Philippines that can do the engine installations on the T129B ATAK on behalf of TAI. Photo credited to Scramble Magazine.

Potential Arrangements:

So, with Leonardo in charge of engine supply, it means that TAI will still be in charge of supplying the complete helicopters being the main contractor for the project. But the process might be different in this case.

It is highly possible that TAI will start building the helicopters, and will receive the engines from Leonardo. But while the helicopters might be completed in Turkey, there is also a chance that the helicopters might be delivered to the Philippines without the engines, and that the engines will be installed, integrated and tested in the Philippines.

If that happens, Leonardo might be doing the engine integration on behalf of TAI since Leonardo already has partners in the Philippines who can do the engine installation and integration works.

If such arrangement happens, the flight tests would also be done in the Philippines, and so is the pre-delivery inspection and acceptance by the DND and PAF's Technical Inspection and Acceptance Committee (TIAC) and Project Management Team (PMT).

Risks and Potential Problems:

MaxDefense Philippines believes that while this is possible, this could be a risky undertaking by both TAI and the DND, since Leonardo may encounter problems of its own in obtaining the LHTEC engines, especially if the US government takes notice of the arrangement. It is very obvious that TAI is using Leonardo as a proxy, and the US government may still impose export license restrictions.

Should Leonardo fail to get the engines, it means delays in the Attack Helicopter Acquisition Project, since time spent on dealing with TAI would be worthless, and getting back the payment could be a sore legal issue that could take time to settle.

Also, should TAI be successful in delivering the T129B attack helicopters completely in any arrangement, there is still the risk of TAI possibly failing to provide proper support for the helicopters especially with regards to the engines and select avionics affected by the US export ban.

In foresight, even if TAI succeeds in delivering the 6 T129B attack helicopters to the PAF, there is also a chance that it could encounter issues in the future if the PAF decides to do a follow-on order, considering the situation between Turkey and the US remains tense even with a new leadership in the US government under President-elect Joe Biden in power by 2021.

Alternatively, the DND could have just gone with better options rather than take a risk that could be detrimental to Philippine interests and security plans.

Project Summary:

Attack Helicopter (Horizon 2)Acquisition Project:

Note: Edited as of 23 December 2020.

* End User: Philippine Air Force (15th Strike Wing)

* Quantity: 6 units

* Modernization Phase: Horizon 2 Phase of RAFPMP

* Project ABC: Php13,800,000,000.00

* Acquisition Mode: Government-to-Government deal with Turkish Ministry of Defense.

* Source of Funding: GAA Funds through AFP Modernization Program Trust Fund, to be paid via Multi-Year Obligation Authority (MYOA) process.

* SARO Release/s: TBA

* Winning Proponent: Turkish Aerospace Industries

* Product for Delivery: starting late 2021, complete by 2022.

* Contract Price: TBA

* First post by MaxDefense: TBA

* MaxDefense Searching Hashtag: #PAFAHAcquisition #PAFAHPhase2Acquisition

* Status: TWG selected TAI T129 ATAK as basis for the Attack Helicopter project in 2018. Despite re-evaluation made in 2019 after Turkey had problems obtaining US and EU-sourced subsystems, NOA awarded to Turkish Aerospace Industries although PAF is looking at alternatives to the T129. Contract signed with TAI in 3rd quarter 2020, NTP and initial funding released as of November 2020.

The T129B ATAK attack helicopter. Photo credits to HeliHub.

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First release: 23 December 2020
Copyright MaxDefense Philippines

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Purchase of T129 ATAK Falls Through, What's Next for the Attack Helicopter project of PAF?

In previous MaxDefense reports made through our blog entries, and social media posts, and later corroborated by reports by local and international media and defense outlets, it was reported that the Philippine Air Force (PAF) Technical Working Group (TWG) has selected the Turkish Aerospace Industries (TAI) T129 ATAK attack helicopter for the Attack Helicopter Acquisition Project under the Horizon 2 phase Priority Projects of the RAFPMP.

The TAI T129 ATAK attack helicopter during an airshow. Credits to original source of the photo.

The Department of National Defense (DND) through Defense Sec. Delfin Lorenzana also supported this decision, and was the submitted request to Malacanang for approval by the President Rodrigo Duterte. Despite Pres. Duterte's preference on Russian attack helicopters, he approved the request of the DND and PAF for implementation, allowing the DND to finalize negotiations with TAI and the Turkish Ministry of Defense and Ministry of Trade.

For further reading, you may refer to a previous blog entry regarding the decision to acquire the T129 ATAK attack helicopters from Turkey, which can be accessed from the link provided below:

"Philippine Air Force Technical Group Picks TAI's T129 ATAK as its Future Attack Helicopter" - first posted on 28 November 28 2018.


The PAF, the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP), and the Filipino people were all expecting the release of Notice of Award (NOA) in favor of Turkish Aerospace Industries, and eventually a Contract Signing between them and the DND, which was planned to be made sometime between March and May 2019.

A scale model of the T129 during the Philippines-Turkey Defense MOU Signing last December 2018 in Manila. Photo taken from CNN Turk.

But it's already almost July 2019. No NOA has been released in favor of TAI. No contract signed.

Another helicopter acquisition project running parallel and done separately with the Attack Helicopter acquisition project went through smoothly and has completed contract signing a few months ago.

So what happened?


The Turkish S400 Triumf deal and its Implications:

Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan's decision to acquire the Russian-made S400 Triumf long range air defense system has placed Turkey at odds with its allies with the North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO) led by the United States of America.

NATO and the US government has been asking Turkey to re-consider its acquisition of the Russian S-400 system since it would expose vulnerabilities on the Lockheed Martin F-35 Lightning II Joint Strike Fighter, which Turkey also plans to buy as their next generation fighter aircraft.

Russia's S-400 Triumf long range air defense system, said to be among the best in the world, and Turkey wants it. Credits to original source of the photo.

The US believes that the considerable exposure of the F-35 to the S-400's radars and targeting system could transmit data to the Russian manufacturers of the system, and ultimately to the Russian military and government, which would enable them to get valuable information on the aircraft and probably create ways to counter it.

Also, the US insists that buying from Russia, specifically the state-run arms export agency Rosoboronexport is in the US government's blacklist, and dealing with them can be a reason to receive sanctions through the Countering America's Adversaries Through Sanctions Act (CAATSA).

But Turkey insisted on pushing through with the deal despite the US giving them a deadline of up to the end of July 2019 to cancel the deal with Russia. This is because they do not agree with the US' assessment on the S-400 affecting the F-35 aircraft, while also believing that the S-400 is a better performing product than what its western allies have or are willing to sell to Turkey.

The Lockheed Martin F-35A Lightning II Joint Strike Fighter - unknowingly the Philippines was indirectly affected by issues regarding this aircraft. Photo taken from the National Interest website.

The US threatened sanctions to Turkey if the deal proceeds, including cancellation of sale of the F-35 JSF, as well as economic and trade sanctions through CAATSA including elimination of Turkish suppliers and manufacturers from the F-35 supply chain.

This sanction may also include export of technology, equipment and components, spare parts, weapons and munitions by the US and its allies who support the program against the Turkish government and industrial sector.

Turkey's TAI would be greatly affected by any sanctions triggered by the government's decision to buy the Russian S-400 Triumf air defense system. And it will affect not just the production of the T129 ATAK but also almost all of TAI's aircraft products until new sources of components and new certifications can be received. Credits to original source of the photo.

The Philippines' planned T129 ATAK acquisition:

While these political events are happening in Turkey, the Philippines selected the Turkish made TAI T129 ATAK attack helicopter for its own requirements.

The T129 ATAK is the result of Turkey's program to create an indigenous attack helicopter that they could manufacture and use for their armed forces, as well as for export to other countries. Technology was based mostly from the Agusta (later AgustaWestland) A129 Mangusta attack helicopter from Italy, which uses several components from the US and other allies.

Defense Sec. Delfin Lorenzana in the background of a  TAI T129 ATAK scale model during the Defense MOU signing last December 2018 in Manila. Photo taken from CNN Turk.

The T129 ATAK is an improvement over the original A129 Mangusta, replacing minor Italian or foreign-made components with equivalent Turkish made ones while continuing the use of foreign made components that are not yet available in Turkey's own facilities. This is while also increasing performance values including the use of more powerful engines to support the new aircraft.

While Turkey is very much willing to sell the TAI T129 ATAK to the Philippines, the problem now lies on the effects of CAATSA to the ability of TAI to secure the components needed to build new T129 ATAK attack helicopters and other products, as well as providing spare parts and support once these aircraft are delivered.

The T129 ATAK attack helicopter of the Turkish Army. Credits to original source and owners of the photo.

Based on information gathered by MaxDefense for the last several months through sources from the DND, PAF, and friends from local and international defense industry and aviation industry, it turns out that everything looks gloomy for the DND's deal with TAI and its Turkish counterparts.

Due to TAI and the Turkish government's inability to provide assurances that US-made component including the LHTEC CTS800-4A turboshaft engines and many other components, it was decided by the DND and the PAF TWG and leaders to STOP the deal with TAI and the Turkish government.

The LHTEC CTS800 turboshaft engine, the same engine powering the T129 ATAK and the AW159 Wildcat helicopters.
Photo taken from Honeywell Aerospace's website.

It was also decided that since TAI may be unable to deliver the T129 ATAK to the Philippines, the PAF TWG was requested to re-open its evaluation and selection process for the Attack Helicopter Acquisition Project.

In short, it could be safe to say that the acquisition of TAI T129 ATAK is practically dead.

It is probably also safe to say now that the Attack Helicopter Acquisition Project is rebooted, or may even be put on-hold for now.


Alternatives?

While the PAF TWG was asked to start re-evaluating the products previously offered to them, the process may take some time before a new model gets selected.

This also means re-opening the door to previous offers made to the PAF which may include the Bell AH-1Z Viper, the Boeing AH-64E Apache Guardian, the Russian Helicopters Mil Mi-28 Havoc and Mil Mi-35 Hind, and other helicopter models.

Previously, the PAF TWG's findings on not selecting these helicopters were attributed to different things: the AH-1Z and AH-64E were both too expensive, and may take a considerable time to deliver due to the long process of getting approvals for buying American products. While the Mi-28 Havoc and Mi-35 has inter-operability, compatibility, and support issues, not to mention CAATSA issues on both helicopters, and size and performance issues on the Mi-35.

Other new offers were made to the PAF, including that from Sikorsky with their S-70i Battlehawk proposal, which is strongly being considered due to its commonality in parts, logistics, training and everything else with the S-70i Black Hawk Combat Utility Helicopters ordered by the PAF a few months ago.

The Sikorsky S-70i Battlehawk armed helicopter was also offered to the PAF when the deal for the T129 ATAK fell through. Photo credits to original source.

Currently, the only solution that is coming the PAF's way is the delivery of two (2) AH-1S Cobra helicopters from the Kingdom of Jordan, which were donated to the PAF although requires some work that the PAF and DND needed to shoulder.


The AH-1 Band-Air Solution?

 The incoming AH-1 Cobra attack helicopters donated by Jordan are the only thing that is closest to the Attack Helicopter or T129 ATAK that is arriving for the PAF. Despite previous posts by MaxDefense naming these helicopters as AH-1F (Foxtrot), it appears that they are actually older AH-1S (Sierra). But it does not matter since these AH-1S have the same performance as the newer AH-1F.

An info-graphic of the upcoming AH-1S Cobra attack helicopters of the PAF. And it turns out they are actually ex-IDF AH-1 Tzefas! Photo exclusively shared to MaxDefense by a source.

According to MaxDefense's sources, these helicopters are actually former Israel Defense Forces (IDF) aircraft that were among the 14 units donated by Israel to Jordan. In short, we are getting 3rd hand helicopters. But its not bad after all.

These helicopters are actually ex-IDF AH-1 Tzefa attack helicopters, which are either AH-1S or AH-1F Cobra helicopters but brought to a common standard by the Israelis to simplify things by having commonality along the entire fleet. The only way to know the difference between a Foxtrot and Sierra Tzefas was looking at the body serials plate.

Ever wonder why the ex-Jordanian AH-1 Cobras can fire Spike-ER missiles as mentioned in the info-graphic above? Because these are Tzefas!!!

An Israel Defense Force AH-1S/F Tzefa attack helicopter, which were among those donated by Israel to Jordan, and now being donated by Jordan to the Philippines. Credits to original source of photo.

With only two (2) units arriving, these helicopters are obviously not enough to cover the delays in the Attack Helicopter acquisition project. And this could be a good reason for the PAF to consider the acquisition of more AH-1S/F Cobra attack helicopters from either Jordan, Israel, or other friendly countries as a temporary solution, and to give meaning to the introduction of Cobra attack helicopters into the PAF's fleet.

Having 2 AH-1S Tzefa Cobra attack helicopters isn't enough. How to solve this? By getting more of the same helicopters to make the earlier decision to accept 2 helicopters become relevant and reasonable.
Credits to original source of photo.

For further reading regarding the discussions, you may refer to our previous blog entry discussing the Jordanian donation of AH-1 Cobra attack helicopters to the Philippines, you may refer to an old blog entry discussing this, which can be accessed on the link provided below:

"Is the Philippine Air Force Getting Bell AH-1 Cobra Attack Helicopters from Jordan?" - first posted on 21 August 21, 2017



What's Next for the Attack Helicopter Acquisition Project?

And if our sources is correct, it appears that the PAF TWG may wait until the 2 AH-1S Tzefa Cobra helicopters arrive late this year before they make a new decision. This is for the PAF, specifically the 15th Strike Wing, to evaluate the helicopters to decide if they really would go for a purpose-built attack helicopter, or re-consider the Battle Taxi option like the S-70i Battlehawk offer.

But the PAF TWG should decide quickly. The Department of Budget and Management (DBM) has already released the funds for the PAF's Attack Helicopter Acquisition Project for 2019. And if the DND and PAF do not make use of the funds for the project by the end of 2019, the funds will have to be transmitted back to the DBM, with the PAF and DND again requesting for its release. And everyone following the defense modernization knows how lengthy this process is.

So the only way to go now for the PAF and DND is forward - make a new selection soon, award the project and complete the procurement phase within the year.

MaxDefense's only concern is that this also opens a new door for Pres. Duterte and his friends to push again their preferences, like those from Russia.

Its sad that the Philippines lost an opportunity to have a promising attack helicopter, but in this case, its not our fault but the fault of others - Turkey to be exact.

Any updates regarding the Attack Helicopter Acquisition Project will now be posted also in our MaxDefense Resource Page portal under the Philippine Air Force Modernization Program Projects.

This could be accessed through the link provided below:

"Attack Helicopter (Horizon 2) Acquisition Project of the Philippine Air Force" - to be updated continuously.



Project Summary:

Attack Helicopter (Horizon 2)Acquisition Project:

Note: Edited as of 29 June 2019.

* End User: Philippine Air Force (15th Strike Wing)

* Quantity: no specific quantity, cost dependent

* Modernization Phase: Horizon 2 Phase of RAFPMP

* Project ABC: Php13,800,000,000.00

* Acquisition Mode: Government-to-Government deal, originally with Turkish Ministry of Defense (cancelled)

* Source of Funding: GAA Funds through AFP Modernization Program Trust Fund, to be paid via Multi-Year Obligation Authority (MYOA) process.

* SARO Release/s: TBA

* Winning Proponent: TBA

* Product for Delivery: TBA

* Contract Price: TBA

* First post by MaxDefense: TBA

* MaxDefense Searching Hashtag: #PAFAHAcquisition 

* Status: for re-evaluation by PAF TWG after deal with Turkish Ministry of Defense and TAI fell through.



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First post, edit and release: 29 June 2019
Copyright MaxDefense Philippines

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Philippine Air Force Technical Group Picks TAI's T129 ATAK as its Future Attack Helicopter

After keeping the information for sometime now, MaxDefense can finally discuss this publicly after it made public by the Philippine Air Force (PAF) itself during a major event this week.

During the founding anniversary of the PAF's 15th Strike Wing last 26 November 2018, no other than the Commanding General of the Philippine Air Force, Lt. Gen. Galileo Kintanar, confirmed in his speech that the Technical Working Group (TWG) handling the PAF's Attack Helicopter Acquisition Project has selected their choice in the form of the Turkish-made T129 ATAK attack helicopter, manufactured by Turkish Aerospace Industries (TAI).

Although there was no further mention of the status of the acquisition, MaxDefense believes that the choice by the TWG was already approved by the Senior Leaders of the Philippine Air Force, including the CGPAF himself, and was already submitted to the Department of National Defense (DND) to prepare for the negotiations and actual acquisition process with TAI and the Turkish Ministry of Defensce. It is expected that the project will be a Government-to-Government (G2G) deal between the Philippines and Turkey.

While the PAF TWG and the Senior Leaders selected TAI's T129 ATAK, may we remind our readers that selection of the helicopter only means that this would be pushed to the DND for implementation and preparation for negotiation and acquisition. THE PROJECT IS NOT YET AWARDED, NOR CONTRACT SIGNED WITH TURKISH AEROSPACE INDUSTRIES AS OF YET. Like all other acquisition projects, this would undergo several processes that would determine not only the product's compliance to specs, but also the capability of the manufacturer to deliver the project smoothly and within schedule.

The Technical Working Group for the PAF's Attack Helicopter acquisition project selected the TAI T129 ATAK attack helicopter, and was submitted to DND for implementation.
Credits to original source of the photo.

The PAF's Attack Helicopter Acquisition Project:

Originally the PAF's Attack Helicopter Acquisition Project calls for the acquisition of 24 armed light helicopters that will ultimately replace the existing fleet of ageing McDonnell Douglas (now MD Helicopters) MD-520MG Defender single-engine light armed helicopters that have been in service with the 15th Strike Wing since 1990. The allocated budget for the project was originally at Php11.8 billion in 2016, before it was adjusted at least 2 times, and approved for implementation with a budget of Php13.8 billion in 2017.

The plan was to select a dual-engine armed light helicopter model, similar to the Leonardo AW109E Power armed helicopters that are already in service since 2015. Dual engine was preferred due to its safety features in case one of the engine fails while in flight, an important feature when flying especially over bodies of water. Among those considered were the following dual engine light helicopters:

1. An up-engined variant of the Leonardo AW109 helicopter from Italy, 

2. France's Airbus Helicopters H145M with the HForce weapon system,

3. An armed variant of MD Helicopters MD902 Explorer;

4. Hindustan Aerospace Limited (HAL) Rudra from India,

5. Armed variant of the Bell 429 GlobalRanger

Initially the PAF was looking at acquiring armed light helicopters, with the strongest contenders being a more powerful and armed variant of the Leonardo AW109 helicopter (top) and the Airbus Helicopters H145M (above).
Credits to original sources of the photos used.

Based on information gathered by MaxDefense from sources, in addition to its own research, the leading contenders based on the light helicopter platform were the Leonardo AW109, which benefits from being already in service with the PAF, and the Airbus Helicopters H145M, which is actually the leading choice of the PAF due to its superior performance over the AW109. 

But sometime in 2018, the PAF started to also consider purpose-built attack helicopter models, which are more capable in terms of performance and combat capability, but are also more expensive to acquire than armed light helicopters. 

It is believed that the proposal to acquire real attack helicopters started when the Kingdom of Jordan confirmed its donation of at least 2 used Bell AH-1F Cobra attack helicopters to the Philippines, which MaxDefense was first to report back in August 2017. The mere idea of having attack helicopters, despite old, opened up the PAF's mindset of considering purpose-built attack helicopters aside from just limiting itself to armed light helicopters.

Among those purpose-built attack helicopter models considered by the PAF, based on the press releases, information from MaxDefense source, and interviews during ADAS 2018 and other defense exhibitions include the following:

1. Bell's AH-1Z Viper attack helicopter, apparently the PAF's favourite choice;

2. Boeing AH-64E Apache Guardian attack helicopter;

3. Russian Helicopters Mil Mi-28N Night Hunter, as marketed by Rosoboronexport;

4. Russian Helicopters Mil Mi-35 Hind, as marketed by Rosobornexport;

5. TAI T-129 ATAK attack helicopter;

6. Airbus Helicopters Tiger attack helicopter

The Mil Mi-28N Night Hunter (top) and the Bell AH-1Z Viper (above) were among those considered by the PAF when they decided to also look at purpose-built attack helicopters as options for the project. The AH-1Z was even said to be the favourite of PAF pilots.
Credits to original sources of photos.

In a previous poll started by MaxDefense in its Facebook page, majority of voters believed that the PAF would be better off acquiring purpose-built attack helicopters rather than armed light helicopters. Various reasons were made to support their choices, but MaxDefense believes that the main reason for the PAF to forego acquisition of light helicopters was for them to introduce new and additional capabilities that are not possible with armed light helicopters like the AW109 or H145M.

It was reported that the US offered attack helicopters and F-16 fighter aircraft to the Philippines, as admitted by Pres. Duterte himself. Upon checking with MaxDefense sources from Malacanang and the defense department, it turns out that the US offered the Bell AH-1Z Viper and Boeing AH-64E Apache Guardian, and was packaged with US Foreign Military Financing (FMF) and Foreign Military Sales (FMS) programs. But despite this, the DND and PAF was said to be concerned by the steep price, and the long delivery lead time common with US FMS-implemented projects. 

Apparently it is not Pres. Duterte's rejection of American hardware that made the PAF decide against these helicopters, as the DND and PAF didn't take the president's words seriously, according to a cabinet member that MaxDefense talked to a few months ago.

Defense Sec. Delfin Lorenzana views the Mil Mi-28N Night Hunter attack helicopter during the Russian Army 2018 defense expo in Russia last August 2018 (top), and visited the booth of TAI during IndoDefence 2018 in November 2018 (above).
Top photo credited to Philippine Ambassador to Russia Carlos King Sorreta's FB page, and above photo to TAI's Twitter account.

The DND and PAF did look at Russia's Mil Mi-28N Night Hunter and Mil Mi-35 Hind attack and assault helicopters, but did not take them seriously due to issues on inter-operability, compatibility, pricing, and requirements. Apparently the Mil Mi-35 Hind is too big and too expensive to operate, while the Mil Mi-28N is also expensive, although cheaper than its American counterparts.Several trips were made by the DND, including Defense Sec. Delfin Lorenzana himself, and the PAF to Russia to check on the Russian offers.

While the PAF also considered the Airbus Helicopters Tiger, it did not give too much attention due to its reputation of not meeting expectations of users. Apparently the Australian Army did provide feedbacks on the Tiger attack helicopter several years back, and the PAF seems to have remembered them well.

The T129 ATAK is currently Turkey's main attack helicopter operated by the Turkish Army, and is also being actively offered for export by TAI, with Pakistan signing up as its first export market.
Credits to original surce of the photo.

The T129 ATAK Attack Helicopter:

The TAI T-129 ATAK attack helicopter is apparently the second cheapest purpose-built attack helicopter in the PAF's list (the Mil Mi-35 Hind said to be the cheapest to acquire), and appears to be the smallest as well. Even compared to the AH-1Z Viper, it is smaller and lighter by a huge percentage. It was said to be first offered by AgustaWestland to the PAF in 2012, as reported by IHS Jane's, although serious consideration for the type only happened in 2018. While its small size may have reduced its operational range and carrying capacity compared to other attack helicopters, it is also an advantage for the T129 as it allows for a smaller radar cross section, as well as being more difficult to see and target especially by unguided weapons.

It is based on AgustaWestland's A129 Mangusta attack helicopter, which was first in service with the Italian Army in 1990. AgustaWestland provided the technology transfer to Turkish Aerospace Industries using the A129 Mangusta International variant as part of the deal for the Turkish Army to acquire the T129 version as its future attack helicopter. TAI then used locally-made or developed parts, increasing the Turkish content of the T129 compared to the Italian A129 Mangusta.

The Agusta (later on AgustaWestland) A129 Mangusta was the basis for the TAI T129 ATAK, as part of a deal between AgustaWestland and the Turkish government for the selection of the helicopter for acquisition as the future attack helicopter of the Turkish Army.
Credits to original source of the photo.

TAI also improved the design by using upgraded engines, and improved transmission system and rotor. It was also redesigned to allow operations in hot, humid weather as well as cool weather, which is the general Turkish environment in both the European and Middle Eastern side of the country. This would be beneficial for the Philippine Air Force as the local weather is mostly warm and humid. It is yet to be confirmed if the PAF will require its attack helicopters to have saline treatment to protect from the local naval environment of the country.

It can carry a wide variety of weapons, including an M197 triple-barrel 20mm gatling cannon and 2.75" rocket pods and BGM-71 TOW missile, similar to those installed on the AH-1F Cobra helicopters that the PAF is slated to receive. In addition, it can also carry and fire several other types of anti-tank missiles including the American AGM-114 Hellfire, Israeli Spike-ER missile (which the Philippine Navy already uses),  and the Turkish UMTAS missile. It can also fire the Rocketsan Cirit laser-guided rockets, as well as AIM-92 Stinger, MBDA Mistral, and even the AIM-9 Sidewinder air-to-air missiles for protection against enemy aircraft or helicopters.

The T129 attack helicopter is fully aerobatic, as demonstrated during several air shows where the T129 was being marketed for export.
Credits to original source of the photo.

This is already an advantage compared to the weapons that armed light helicopters carry, considering the budget won't be sufficient enough for the units to arrive with upgrades to fire air-to-surface missiles and other weapons.

Currently only the Turkish Army uses the T129A and T129B variants of the ATAK, although Pakistan was already confirmed as an export market and would be receiving 30 units as part of the deal between the two countries. The T129 has also been used in combat over Syria against Kurdish forces, although at least 1 of Turkey's T129 has confirmed to have been shot down only last February 2018 after being hit by an RPG round.

Project Expectations:

MaxDefense was informed by sources that previous statements made by the DND and PAF, as well as by the president himself that the Attack Helicopter (as well as the Combat Utility Helicopter) acquisition projects are the highest priority projects of the Philippine Air Force under the Horizon 2 phase of the Revised AFP Modernization Program (RAFPMP). This is in line with the national government's campaign to be prepared for any future terrorist attack, as well as to increase its combat capability against the terrorist New People's Army (NPA) and various Islamic terrorist groups.

If all goes well, MaxDefense believes that an award can be made, as well as  a contract can be signed between the DND and TAI (or the Turkish government) by 2019, after passing all requirements. Based on similar projects, it is expected that TAI may be able to deliver the first aircraft only after 2 years from contract signing. MaxDefense also believes that a maximum of only 6 units can be acquired based on the budget allocated by the government for this project, although more units can be lined up for acquisition as part of the Horizon 3 phase between 2023-2028.

Another side of the T129 ATAK attack helicopter during an airshow in France.
Credits to original source of the photo.

While 6 units won't be enough to form a decently sized squadron, it is expected that the 2 AH-1F Cobra helicopters will be used as a training platform for PAF pilots to transition from armed light helicopters to purpose-built attack helicopters, and will join the T129 squadron as well, in case no more used AH-1Fs are acquired from Jordan or any other sources. Apparently the PAF desires to raise at least 2 squadrons of 12 aircraft each, while the ageing MD-520MG Defender would be de-armed and used as a training helicopter.

MaxDefense also expects that the PAF may not initially acquire anti-tank missiles for the helicopters, and may rely more on standard 2.75" rocket pods and gun pods, although the PAF may consider acquiring laser-guided rockets, since they are already determining its viability for use on the AW109E armed light helicopter already in service.

Why MaxDefense Released This Information?

To be honest, MaxDefense believes that releasing this information is quite premature considering the status of the project being in the pre-procurement phase despite the TWG's selection of the T129 attack helicopter. But I believe it is the best time to put this out considering the CGPAF himself made the confirmation in public (although within the PAF and visitors) in addition to the information MaxDefense received from other sources.

Our reason is based on information we got that there is someone with influence and close relations to Pres. Duterte that is undermining the project, by pushing the PAF's TWG as well as the Senior Leaders themselves to cancel the recommendation on the acquisition of TAI's T129 ATAK. And instead, recommend the acquisition of another armed light armed helicopter  being offered by the foreign company represented by this influential official's close friend and associate. MaxDefense would refrain from naming people and the company represented for now. Apparently the local representative if an election contributor to this influential official, who is running for public office next year.

Publishing this blog this early allows the general public to know that there is already a decision made by the PAF's TWG and Senior Leadership, and that any changes in it, or even in the PAF's table of organization, could be because of the illicit practices of these corrupt officials close to the president of using their power and influence to make changes, despite being unqualified or inexperienced to make the decision.

What we saw in the Philippine Navy's Frigate Acquisition Project has become a prime example of what could happen if those in power intervene in the AFP's decision making - even military leaders can fall and projects affected for the sake of personal interests by a few. And it is not impossible for it to happen again, this time with the Philippine Air Force.

We hope that the PAF's TWG and Senior Leadership would be strong enough to resist any interference from government officials, or stand for what they believe is the right product to go for.

So What's Next:

At the moment, all we can do is wait until the PAF and DND iron out things, and start the negotiations and acquisition process with their Turkish counterparts and with TAI. Until a contract is signed, there are still many things that could happen that may result to changes in the acquisition plan, or even to the cancellation of the project. Until then, all information in this blog entry are still subject to changes although are all based on the latest information from our sources, as well as from the Philippine Air Force itself as explained earlier in the blog entry.

MaxDefense would monitor developments in this project, whatever happens to the TWG's decision.


Summary:

1. Attack Helicopter acquisition project

End User: Philippine Air Force (15th Strike Wing)
Modernization Phase: RAFPMP Horizon 2
ABC: Php13,800,000,000.00
SARO Release: to be updated
Status as of this writing: proposed to DND for negotiation and procurement
Winning Proponent: None yet, still in pre-procurement phase
Contract Price: not yet awarded.

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