PAF acquires 2 new light lift planes

The Philippine Air Force (PAF) will formally accept today two new light lift aircraft purchased from Indonesia as part of its ongoing modernization program.

Maj. Aristides Galang, PAF Public Information Office chief, said that Defense Secretary Delfin Lorenzana has been invited as guest of honor in the acceptance, blessing and turnover of two NC212i from PT Dirgantara Indonesia.The ceremony is set at 1 p.m. today at the Haribon Hangar inside the Clark Air Base in Pampanga.

The NC212i aircraft can be used strategically for producing artificial rain, maritime patrol and coast guard patrol.

It can also be utilized for the following missions: passenger and troop transport, cargo/logistic transport, anti-smuggling control, immigration control, search and rescue, paratroop dropping, and medical evacuation.

Compared to the previous NC212, the new model has a carrying capacity of 28 passengers, a digital avionic and next generation autopilot. It features a ramp access, next generation navigation and communication system, as well as, cheaper operational cost.

Moreover, the said aircraft is capable of taking-off and landing on unpaved runway – perfect for the Rancudo Airfield on Pagasa Island.

The acquisition of the NC212i was part of the PAF’s ongoing capability upgrade under the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) Modernization Program.

The PAF already acquired a squadron of FA50s from South Korea and C290s under the first phase of its modernization program or Horizon 1.

Under the P300 billion Horizon 2 of the AFP Modernization Program, the PAF has listed additional squadron of fighter jets and light and medium lift aircraft for acquisition.

President Duterte has already given the go signal for the AFP list under Horizon 2, including submarines and additional frigates for the Philippine Navy.