The Philippine Department of National Defence (DND) has signed a deal with Poland for eight new combat utility helicopters to modernise the country’s air force.

The proposed helicopter fulfils the Philippine Air Force’s (PAF) need for air lifting capability.

Poland’s Swidnik will manufacture the helicopter as per a government-to-government contract worth PHP2.8bn ($60.6m), according to philstar.com.

Defence undersecretary for modernisation Antonio Romero said an initial delivery of four units was expected within a year.