The Philippines is set to acquire Bell 505 Jet Ranger X helicopters under a $150-million foreign military sale approved by the US State Department.
The proposed package covers Bell 505 Veris simulators, spare components, sustainment services, tools, ground support equipment, and program management support for 22 helicopters based at two operational locations.
Additional support includes delivery and reassembly services, helicopter maintenance training for six students, logistics support instruction for six personnel, and engine maintenance transfer programs for 22 personnel.
An in-country representative and yearly program management reviews over three years are also part of the agreement.
According to Washington, the sale will strengthen US-Philippines defense ties and support regional stability, peace, and economic growth across Southeast Asia.
The new helicopters are intended to enhance the Philippine military’s rotary-wing training capability, improve pilot preparedness, and help bridge the transition toward more sophisticated aircraft platforms.
Manufactured by Bell Textron, the Bell 505 Jet Ranger X is a light multi-role helicopter capable of combat support, flight training, and medical evacuation missions, in addition to civilian and commercial operations.
The helicopter accommodates five occupants, measures 43 feet (13 meters) in length, and uses a Safran Arrius 2R turboshaft engine producing 505 horsepower.
The military variant can reach speeds of 135 knots (250 km/h), fly up to 306 nautical miles (566 kilometers), operate at altitudes of 18,610 feet (5,670 meters), and remain airborne for as long as four hours.
