New Phl attack choppers to have 'night fighting systems'

MANILA, Philippines -The eight new attack helicopters to be purchased by the government  will be fitted with "night fighting systems," the Department of National Defense (DND) bid and awards committee announced Tuesday.

The equipment, either electro-optical or infra red system, are used by air crews in detecting or spotting targets at night time.

The DND also said these new attack helicopters must be capable of flying at speeds of 120 knots (around 138 miles per hour) while carrying a 2,000 payload.

They should also be able to cruise for two and half hours and should be multi-engine in type.

Earlier, the DND said the choppers will also be equipped with laser designators capable of firing laser-guided rockets.

Related story: Phl to get new attack choppers that could fire laser-guided rockets

Four international helicopter manufacturers have participated in the pre-bid conference of the DND's attack helicopter program. 

These firms are the Boeing Co., Eurocopter Group, AgustaWestland NV and MD Helicopters Inc.

All four aerospace companies have acquired the required bidding documents.

The DND attack helicopter program has a budget of P3.44 billion and will be sourced from the national budget and the AFP Modernization Act Trust Fund of 2000.

The DND said the new helicopters must have full night operation capability and complete weapon systems aside from integrated logistics support package.