PAF looking for spares of MG-520 electrical systems

The Philippine Air Force (PAF) (Photo: Philippine Air Force/ Facebook)

MANILA — The Philippine Air Force (PAF), through its Bids and Awards Committee, is allocating the sum of PHP8.2 million for the acquisition of spare parts needed for the maintenance of the electrical systems of its six McDonnell Douglas MG-520 “Defender” attack helicopters.

The items are for MG-520 helicopters with tail numbers 395, 417, 418, 431, 438 and 439.

Pre-bid conference is slated for December 19, 9 a.m. at the PAF Procurement Center Conference Room, Villamor Air Base, Pasay City, the bid bulletin posted at the Philippine Government Electronic Procurement System stated.

Submission and opening of bids is scheduled on January 9.

“All particulars relative to Eligibility Statement and Screening, Bid Security, Performance Security, Pre-Bidding Conference/s, Evaluation of Bids, Post-Qualification and Award of Contract shall be governed by the pertinent provisions of RA 9184 and its Implementing Rules and Regulations (IRR),” PAF Bids and Awards Committee chair Brig. Gen. Erickson R. Gloria said in the same bid bulletin.

The PAF is known to operate 12 to 16 models of the MG-520.

The PAF affair with the MG-520 started in the early 90’s when 25 units of these excellent aircraft were delivered to country.

It was used with great effect against New People’s Army (NPA) rebels and lawless elements like the Abu Sayyaf Group for the past few years.

The MG-520 is derived from the MG-500 light utility helicopter. It can be armed with .50 caliber heavy machines and air-to-ground rockets.