'Gatling Guns' Boost Black Hawk Choppers’ Self-defense Capabilities

27 Januari 2026

M-134D-H "Gatling Guns" support S-70i "Black Hawk" combat utility helicopters (photos: PAF)

MANILA – With the arrival of the versatile and powerful M-134D-H "Gatling Guns" in its inventory, the Philippine Air Force (PAF) gets to boost the "self-defense and mission support capabilities" of its S-70i "Black Hawk" combat utility helicopters.

"The installation of 'Gatling Guns' significantly enhances the 'BH' (Black Hawk) helicopters' self-defense and mission support capabilities. These armaments provide suppressive fire that improves aircraft survivability during operations in hostile or high-risk environments," PAF spokesperson Col. Ma. Christina Basco told the Philippine News Agency (PNA) when asked about enhancements to their S-70i fleet.

This weapon system, Basco said, will also allow the S-70is to better support ground forces, secure landing zones, and ensure safe insertion and extraction of troops during tactical and contingency operations.

Last Jan. 23, the PAF received eight units of eight M134D-H "Gatling Guns" and five more S-70is during turnover ceremonies in Villamor Air Base, Pasay City.

These types of weapons are known for their high-rate of fire.

"The 'BH' (Black Hawk) equipped with 'GGs' (Gatling Guns) will primarily support combat and non-combat opns (operations) requiring increased protection and fire support. Among the roles include tactical troop transport, escort operations, air assault support and security for humanitarian assistance and disaster response missions in areas with potential security threats," she added.

Basco also said that the armament enhances mission effectiveness while maintaining the aircraft's versatility for both military operations and emergency response. 

(PNA)

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