Ten new attack
helicopters from France has been approved for the PAF to upgrade its defence
capabilities (photo : Airliners)
PAF Chief
visits Cebu as part of 65th founding anniversary, says PAF to upgrade its
defense capabilities
CEBU CITY
(PIA) -- Philippine Air Force (PAF) Commanding General Lt. Gen. Lauro Catalino
Dela Cruz in a recent visit to Cebu announced that PAF will be acquiring new
external defense equipment to upgrade their capabilities.
De la Cruz
told the good news during a media interview at the Brigadier General-Benito
Ebuen Air Base in Lapu-Lapu City last Friday as the commanding general made a
round of visits nationwide as part of the highlights in commemorating the PAF
65th Founding Anniversary next month.
The PAF
recommended a P75-billion budget for additional aircraft in order to implement
the modernization program, which is spread in a five-year period.
Dela Cruz
said they already submitted to MalacaƱang the list of necessary equipment that
needs to be purchased and the first equipment they want to acquire is the air
defense radar.
“We will be
acquiring other weapon systems and other equipment needed by the PAF,” said
Dela Cruz.
At present,
the PAF received four new helicopters for use during search and rescue
operations and an additional four helicopters will be delivered in November.
For the
meantime, the approved purchase was based on the recommendations that include
10 new attack helicopters from France, 21 additional UH-1H utility helicopters
to augment the existing utility aircrafts, three medium airlift fixed wing, and
18 trainer aircrafts.
In addition,
Dela Cruz also recommended purchasing N-24 Nomads aircraft and two light lift
aircrafts to replace the existing F-27 Fokker.
In his
message, the PAF Chief encouraged the air force personnel to strengthen their
forces and capabilities in protecting the country and create more programs to
enhance professionalism and promote the welfare of the soldiers.
On its 65th
anniversary, the PAF carries the theme “PAF @ 65th, Bagwis ng Kapayapaan,
Tagapagtanggol ng Kalayaan.” (FCR/HFG/PIA-7/PAF)
(PIA)
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