Philippines seeks parts from Japan for ‘Huey’ helicopters – commander

The Philippines is seeking to acquire UH-1H 'Huey' helicopter parts from Japan, the air force commander said on Monday. The comments come as a deal for new Canadian choppers collapsed this year. The $96 million parts package would keep about 80 US-made Bell utility helicopters flying until 2020 when the Philippines expects to take delivery of new aircraft, Lieutenant-General Galileo Kintanar, the air force chief, told Reuters. Japan eased a decades-old arms export ban in 2014, allowing for weapons exports and participation in joint arms programs when they serve in the interests of international peace and Japanese security.