Philippines Eyes Chinooks after Scrapping $227M Deal for Russian Helicopters

The Philippines is eyeing American Chinook helicopters after it scrapped a $227.35 million deal for Russian helicopters.

Jose Manuel Romualdez, Manila's ambassador to Washington, told journalists in a virtual forum on Monday that Manila had to reject the Russian deal over fears of U.S. sanctions.

"This cancellation of this contract is precipitated mainly by the war in Ukraine. While there are sanctions expected to come our way, from the United States and Western countries, obviously it is not in our interest to continue and pursue this contract," the envoy said.

The Boeing CH-47 Chinook will replace existing hardware used for the movement of troops and in disaster preparedness in the Southeast Asian country.

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Romualdez added that the U.S. contract will cost the same, and could also include maintenance, service and parts.

Manila is pursuing discussions with Moscow to recover its $38 million down payment for the helicopters. Shipment of the ordered choppers was supposed to start in November next year, or 24 months after the contract was signed.