The US State Department has cleared a $150-million foreign military sale of Bell 505 Jet Ranger X helicopters to the Philippines, aimed at strengthening Manila’s rotary-wing training and operational capabilities.
The package includes Bell 505 Veris flight simulators, spare parts, sustainment support, tools, ground equipment, program management, and delivery and reassembly services for 22 helicopters operating from two bases.
Training provisions cover helicopter maintenance instruction for six students, integrated logistics support training for another six personnel, and engine maintenance skills transfer for 22 crew members.
The deal also provides an in-country representative and annual program management reviews over a three-year period.
Washington stated that the acquisition will deepen defense cooperation with Manila, a key regional partner supporting political stability, peace, and economic development in Southeast Asia.
The helicopters are expected to improve pilot readiness, close training gaps with modern platforms, and support a smoother transition to more advanced rotary-wing aircraft.
Developed by Bell Textron, the Bell 505 Jet Ranger X is a lightweight helicopter designed for combat support, pilot training, and medical evacuation missions, while also serving commercial and recreational aviation roles.
The five-seat aircraft is 43 feet (13 meters) long, features a 37-foot (11-meter) rotor diameter, and is powered by a 505-horsepower Safran Arrius 2R turboshaft engine.
Its military configuration delivers a top speed of 135 knots (250 km/h or 155 mph), a range of 306 nautical miles (566 kilometers), an operational ceiling of 18,610 feet (5,670 meters), and endurance of up to four hours.
