The Tactical Operations Wing-Western Mindanao (TOW-WM), the major Air Force unit under the command and control of the Western Mindanao Command (WestMinCom), received S70i Blackhawk utility helicopters on Nov. 4.
The helicopters will be used to perform various missions in Western Mindanao, including support in combat operations and quick response for humanitarian aid.
WestMinCom Commander Maj. Gen. Alfredo Rosario Jr. said the deployment of the Blackhawk helicopters will boost the capability of the armed forces in both lethal and non-lethal operations.
“We are very grateful that the top brass considered the deployment of these air assets which will greatly contribute to the accomplishment of our missions here in Western Mindanao,” the commander said.
Prior to the welcome ceremony at Edwin Andrews Air Base in Bgy. Sta. Maria, the helicopters orbited the City of Zamboanga and performed a descent procedure for a low pass over the entire city before making a direct-perpendicular landing at EAAB ramp toward the 206th ramp.
The highlights of the welcome ceremony were the playing of the Mabuhay Hymn by the 530th Band and the spraying of water from two fire trucks positioned on the opposite sides of the helicopters.
The momentous event was witnessed by Brig. Gen. Arturo Rojas, WestMinCom deputy commander for operations; Brig. Gen. Elpidio Talja, Jr., deputy commander of the Air Combat Command; and Col. Dennis Estrella, wing commander of TOW-WM.
“Expect that with the deployment of the Blackhawk helicopters in our unit, our operations will greatly improve as these helicopters have larger capacity and more impressive horsepower allowing a faster and longer-range transport,” Estrella said.
“In addition, the said helicopters have the ability to absorb high-impact velocities enabling it to withstand strong turbulent winds,” he added. (WESMINCOM-AFP) – jlo
