DND to buy 8 new attack helicopters for P3.4 B

MANILA, Philippines - Eight brand new attack helicopters capable of navigating safely in bad weather will be acquired for P3.4 billion for the Air Force.

A bid bulletin of the Department of National Defense (DND) shows that the project would involve the purchase of eight helicopters with full night operation capability, complete weapons system and integrated logistics support package.

“These helicopters shall be capable of performing close air support during day and night,” read the bulletin.

The deadline for the submission of bids has been slated tentatively on July 24, but it can be moved if prospective bidders request for an extension.

The DND said: “The guiding principles for this project shall be based on affordability and sustainability while conforming to the requirements of our Air Force in furtherance of accomplishing its mission.”

A prospective bidder,  to be qualified, must have completed within 10 years from the date of submission of bids a contract similar to the project.

Bids that are higher than the approved budget contract of P3.4 billion will be rejected at the outset.

The helicopters must be delivered within 540 calendar days from the opening of the letter of credit, which serves as an assurance that the government would pay the winning bidder.

The Air Force’s inventory has been depleted due to recent accidents that killed some of its pilots.