MANILA, The Philippines

The US firm Lockheed Martin announced Tuesday that an agreement was reached with a Polish aerospace company to purchase 32 Black Hawk helicopters.

Lockheed Martin Europe said on Twitter: "Today the Philippines DND gave the go ahead for the manufacture of 32 new Black Hawk utility helicopters built by #PZLMielec."

"This will boost national capabilities in areas of search and rescue, humanitarian and disaster relief and troop transport across the archipelagic country," the US firm added.

The helicopters, estimated to cost $624M, can also be used for transporting military personnel and military operations, as well as emergency assistance and strengthening the country's military power, said local sources.

* Writing by Merve Berker