Philippines Considers Boeing CH-47 After Scrapping Mi-17 Deal

I know I should not be surprised, but I am.

Scrapped Plans for Mi-17 Helicopters

Yesterday, I posted about Manila scrapping plans to acquire 16 Mi-17 “Heavy Lift” helicopters, as there were fears such an acquisition could result in sanctions from the U.S.

But today, reports are starting to surface that the Philippine Ministry of Defense is looking at the Boeing CH-47 to meet its needs for a heavy lift platform. Obviously, the Philippines would not be able to acquire 16 of the American helicopter due to their budget. Manila had a budget of $227.35 million for the Russian helicopters and obviously, a Chinook costs more than a Mi-17.

Potential Acquisition and Budget Considerations

But it is believed that whatever amount the Philippines ends up acquiring (if a deal is reached, that is), the sale would also include maintenance, service, and parts.

But remember, there is a difference between having an interest and actually signing a deal. So let’s see what happens in the months to come.

~NC