MANILA, Philippines – To enhance the strategic partnership between
the US and the Philippines, the US department has permitted the sale of two
C-130 planes to the Philippines. It was said by the US Defense Security
Cooperation Agency (DSCA) that the package includes equipment parts, three-year
logistical support and training. It has a cost of $61 million or P2.67 billion
Philippine money.
The sale of the C-130 planes, long observed
as a workhorse of the Philippine Air Force, will have to be permitted by the US
Congress.
DSCA also said that their agency delivered the necessary certification
notifying Congress of this possible sale on July 23, 2014 . Philippines has demanded
a possible sale from the Defense department stock of two aircraft and 10 T56-16
engines.
Agency said that the proposal would add to
U.S. security and foreign policy objectives by building the capacity of Philippines’
oceanic area safety and extending our overall intentional partnership with the country.
Last month, Armed Forces of the Philippines
chief Gen. Gregorio Catapang said the Philippines might have the two C-130
planes next year. He said the two cargo aircrafts are reconditioned (not brand
new) but are in worthy condition.
AFP really needs the plane to deliver relief
goods quickly to any part of the country who needs help.
As of now, the AFP has three C-130
Hercules planes needs two more for transportation purposes.
Last November, then Armed Forces chief
Emmanuel Bautista said the military actually needs nine C-130 planes, noting that the air assets
are being used to move personnel and delivery supplies to mission areas. They
would be very happy if the 9 planes will be produced.
Other air assets to be acquired by the government
include eight combat utility helicopters, two long-range patrol aircraft, six
close-air support aircraft and radar systems, and radar systems.
The
Philippine Air Force is also expecting the delivery of 17 Huey helicopters and
12 lead in fighter trainer jets, the biggest item in the military’s upgrading
program.
