CLARK AIR BASE, Pampanga — President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. reiterated his support to the modernization of assets, and enhancement of defense capabilities of the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP).
In his speech during the Arrival, Turn-over, and Blessing of the C-295 Medium Lift Aircraft in Clark Air Base, Marcos said the AFP is called to constantly adapt to address challenges and hazards.
With this, he lauded the Philippine Air Force (PAF) for its acquisition of three C-295 aircrafts since 2022, which is in line with the commitment of his administration.
These augmented the four units that were earlier purchased by PAF in 2015 and 2019.
“While this equipment will boost the readiness of our Air Force to respond to any contingency, there is still a need to further improve our capabilities to effectively cover our territory. Equally important is to ensure the airworthiness of Air Force assets and the corresponding training of crew and personnel to guarantee the safety of all,” the Commander-in-Chief stressed.
The acquisition boosts PAF’s capability to immediately deliver and respond in times of need.
“Through the additional C-295 aircraft, the AFP will be able to provide more responsive support to government agencies, especially in emergency situations and on humanitarian assistance and disaster response operations,” Marcos noted.
Recently, PAF has been utilizing C-295 aircrafts in the conduct of evacuation operations, and transportation of emergency relief goods.
To conclude, Marcos urged the men and women of PAF to strengthen their passion in performing their duties.
“As we accept and bless this new C-295 Medium Airlift, may your passion to defend the country and to serve the Filipino people deepen as we strive to maintain the peace that we have fought so hard to achieve,” he told them.
The new C-295 Medium Lift Aircraft was acquired by PAF from the Kingdom of Spain.
It is a twin-turboprop that is the newest generation of tactical airlifter or in the light and medium segment.
C-295 is combat-proven with high versatility as it operates under all weather conditions in all types of environments.
It will complement the capability of PAF and AFP to provide much needed airlift support during disasters and calamities. It will also supplement maritime patrols.
SOURCE: Trixie Joy Manalili (PIA3)
