Philippines purchases Turkey-made ATAK helicopters in major export deal

Turkey signed an agreement with the Philippines that includes the sale of Ankara’s indigenous combat helicopters, which are set to join Manila’s aerial fleet.

In addition to the sale of ATAK helicopters, the agreement, signed by the two countries’ defense ministries, includes more military cooperation between Turkey and the Philippines.

The deal -- a memorandum of understanding -- was signed by Ismail Demir, the head of Turkey's Defense Industries Presidency, and Delfin Lorenzana, the Defense Secretary of the Philippines, in Manila.

Currently selling guns, ammo and night-vision glasses to the Philippines, Turkey now has Atak -- its indigenous battle helicopter--, unmanned aircraft and vessels on its agenda to sell to the Philippines, Demir told Anadolu Agency.

Aerial and offshore platforms, tanks, armored cars modernization, and shooting platforms are also on the table, he noted.

"Cooperation in technology and local talent development are key to the bilateral relations with the Philippines,” Demir said.

ATAK helicopters are Turkey’s single biggest defense export as the country continues to grow its defense industry, joining the rank of global exporters of military equipment.

According to reports, Ankara managed to beat out offers by competitors before clinching the deal with Manila.

Back in July, Turkey and Pakistan signed an agreement on the purchase for 30 of Turkey’s T129 Advanced Attack and Tactical Reconnaissance Helicopters.

The T129 ATACK helicopter was developed by the Turkish Aerospace Industries and the Italy-based AgustaWestland.

The gunship helicopter was added to the inventory of the Turkish Armed Forces in 2014.

On March 23, T129 ATACK helicopters from Turkey participated in a fly-past ceremony in the Pakistani capital, Islamabad.

Designed to operate in hot conditions, the T129 can be deployed in a wide range of operations including attack, reconnaissance and deterrent missions.