Photo from Philippine Air Force official website

MANILA, Philippines - The Department of National Defense (DND) is planning to spend P1.26 billion to purchase 21 combat helicopters to give a much-needed boost to the Philippine Air Force.

In a notice posted on the DND website on Monday, October 29, the department said it intends to acquire the refurbished Bell UH-1 ("Huey") helicopters along with the corresponding logistics support package through "open competitive bidding procedures" as specified by Republic Act 9184 or the Government Procurement Reform Act.

The UH-1 is a multipurpose military helicopter famous for its use by the United States in the Vietnam War, and is commonly known as "Huey."

The purchase is under the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) modernization program, which seeks to develop the military into a multi-mission oriented force capable of effectively addressing internal and external security threats.

A pre-bidding conference will be held on November 2 in Camp Aguinaldo and bidding documents may be purchased for P75,000. - Rappler.com