Lockheed Martin to Supply Black Hawk Training Systems to the Philippines — The Philippine Air Force is set to receive S-70i Black Hawk helicopter training devices and related services from Lockheed Martin under a signed Direct Commercial Sale contract. The package includes a full flight simulator designed to reproduce the sights and sensations of the helicopter, as well as a virtual maintenance trainer featuring interactive, high-fidelity 3D models of the aircraft’s airframe subsystems. The agreement also covers training courseware, sustainment services, and spare parts support through 2032 to help maintain the fleet’s operational readiness. The contract represents Lockheed Martin’s first order for its S-70i Black Hawk training devices. Until the new in-country training capability is established, Philippine Air Force pilots will continue training at the Sikorsky Training Academy in the United States. The award follows the arrival of the final helicopters from the Philippines’ 2022 order for 32 additional Black Hawks, delivered in August 2026. These aircraft join the 15 S-70i helicopters already in service, bringing the reported total fleet to 47 and making the Philippines the world’s largest S-70i operator. The Philippine Air Force deploys its Black Hawks for troop transport, search and rescue, and humanitarian assistance. The new training equipment is expected to improve pilot preparation and maintenance familiarisation while strengthening local expertise and supporting the long-term operation of the growing helicopter fleet.
