The AgustaWestland AW-159 “Wildcat” is an anti-submarine helicopter capable of detecting, monitoring and engaging surface and sub-surface threats. CONTRIBUTED PHOTO

While it may still take some time before the Philippine Navy can acquire submarines, at least it would have the capability this year to detect and fight threats lurking in our seas.

This developed after Defense Secretary Delfin Lorenzana bared Thursday the Navy’s first two anti-submarine helicopters—the AgustaWestland AW-159 “Wildcat” — are expected to be delivered in May this year.

“Anti-submarine helicopters are in the process of being acquired (and) additional info from the PN (said) they will arrive in May 2019,” Lorenzana said.

Earlier, reports had said the Navy is scouting for possible suppliers of submarines after policy makers moved the procurement of the vessel from Horizon Three of the military’s modernization program, scheduled from 2023 to 2028 to Horizon Two, or from 2018 to 2022.

Lorenzana said upon integration, the new helicopters will provide the PN the capability to detect, monitor and, if necessary, engage surface and sub-surface threats.

The two helicopters are already undergoing flight-tests in the United Kingdom. The acquisition contract for the helicopters is reportedly worth P5.4 billion, including munition, mission-essential equipment and integrated logistic support.

Previously called the Future Lynx and Lynx Wildcat, the AW-159 is an improved version of the Westland Super Lynx military helicopter.

AW159 is being operated by both the Royal Navy and British Army. Apart from the Philippine Navy, reports said the Republic of Korea has also ordered AW159.

The AW150 is capable of speeds of 291 km. per hour, a range of 777 km., a ferry range of 963 km. and an endurance of one-and-a-half hours which can be extended up to four hours and 30 minutes if fitted with auxiliary fuel tank.