The Philippine Air Force is set to receive two command-and-control aircraft as part of the military’s modernization program.
The first aircraft, an Airbus Defense & Space C-295 medium transport, was formally received and blessed last November 11, 2019, at the Clark Air Base, Pampanga. Secretary for Defense Delfin Lorenzana was there as a guest of honor.
The C-295 is a new generation aircraft, boasting a robust and reliable frame. It’s a highly versatile tactical airlift capable of carrying nine tons of payload or up to 71 personnel. The plane has a maximum cruise speed of 260 knots. Said aircraft is also suitable for maritime patrol missions.
Department of National Defense spokesperson Arsenio Andolong stated that the contract for the C-295 medium transport is worth 28.8 million euros or around PHP1.6 billion.
“From airlifting personnel and logistical supplies to projecting military force as well as providing humanitarian assistance and disaster response, air mobility has been an indispensable capability that the Philippine Air Force provides through the competency of our pilots, crew and the aircraft that we possess. The aircraft personifies the guardians of our precious skies, and the bearers of hope,” the Commanding General, Philippine Air Force Lt Gen Rozzano D Briguez said.
As for the second aircraft, it’s a Gulfstream G-280 business jet. DND Spokesperson Andolong said that the G-280 “will primarily serve as a platform to carry our senior leaders and commanders in the event of, for example, crisis situation.”
“It can be used by the chief of staff, the secretary of National Defense, our major service commanders and the President,” he also added.
The G280 is smaller compared to the C-295. It also doesn’t carry as much personnel compared to the c-295. Nevertheless, it flies faster than the C-295 and can also be used as an airborne command post. The G-280 can carry as many as 10 passengers with a range of up to 4,100 miles or about 6598KM.
Andolong said it is unfair to brand the G-280 as a VIP or luxury aircraft “because the purpose of the aircraft is for command and control.”
He conceded that the G-280 is “a little more appointed than your average aircraft. But it will carry senior leaders so, of course, it’s designed to be a little more comfortable.”
“But like what I said a while ago, its premium is its speed, capability to land on short runways which cannot be done by our other aircraft at the moment,” he emphasized.
The Gulfstream G-280 is considered as the “Baby Gulfstream”. It is the entry-level product of the company. It is also the smallest and most affordable model in the line-up.
“It’s a workhorse,” Gulfstream senior vice president of worldwide sales, Scott Neal, stated in an interview. “It’s a tremendous aircraft for companies and individuals who need to fly up to seven and a half to eight hours.”
DND Spokesperson Andolong said that the G-280 costs of around USD37 million or around PHP1.9 billion.
With additional reports from: Philippine Star, Philippine News Agency, Philippine Air Force, Business Insider, Manila Bulletin,
Photo Sources: Western Command Armed Forces of the Philippines FB Page, airbus.com, eturbonews.com, businessinsider.com, en.wikipedia.org, gulfstreamnews.com, garmin.com
