Philippine Air Force Receives Final Batch of ATAK Türkiye T129B Helicopters
TSM-The Philippine Air Force (PAF) has received the third and final batch of two T129B ATAK multi-role attack helicopters. The attack helicopter was transported on a Turkish Air Force A400M transport aircraft, arriving in the Philippines on November 30, 2023. The helicopter is scheduled to join the PAF's 18th Attack Squadron before the end of the year.
TAI/AgustaWestland T129 ATAK, a twin-engine, tandem-seat multi-role attack helicopter based on the Agusta A129 Mangusta platform. Developed by Turkish Aerospace Industries (TAI) in partnership with AgustaWestland, the T129 is designed for advanced strike and reconnaissance missions. Designed to operate in challenging environments including hot, high and rough terrain, this helicopter is suitable for day and night operations.
The ATAK program was initiated to meet the needs of the Turkish Armed Forces for multi-purpose attack helicopters and tactical reconnaissance helicopters. The T129 ATAK integrates Turkish-developed avionics, airframe modifications and weapons systems on the AgustaWestland A129 platform which includes upgraded engine, transmission and rotor blade features.
The T129 ATAK is equipped with a 20 mm three-barreled rotary cannon in the nose turret with a capacity of 500 rounds and up to 76 guided 70 mm rockets for close air support.
The helicopter is also equipped with up to 8 long-range 160 mm UMTAS anti-tank missiles, 16 70 mm CIRIT missiles, and 8 short-range Stinger air-launched air-to-air missiles.
The T129 ATAK fulfills a variety of roles, including anti-armor, armed reconnaissance, ground attack, escort, asymmetric warfare, fire support, and short-range anti-aircraft missions.