PAF WELCOMES NEWLY-ACQUIRED C-295M FROM SPAIN  

Submitted by AFPAO on Tue, 11/12/2019 - 15:30

The C-295M #177 was formally accepted and turned over to the Philippine Air Force and was subsequently blessed on November 11, 2019, at the Haribon Hangar, Clark Air Base, Air Force City, Mabalacat, Pampanga with the Secretary of National Defense, DELFIN N LORENZANA, as Guest of Honor.
 
The C-295M aircraft was acquired by the Department of National Defense from Spain’s Airbus Defense and Space (ADS) as part of the Command and Control Fixed-Wing Turbo Prop Acquisition (C2FWTPA) Project under the Revised AFP Modernization Program.
 
The arrival of the C295M aircraft will add to the present three (3) operational C295 aircraft of the PAF to boost the capabilities of medium tactical airlift requirement of transporting troops and equipment, as well as, to support Humanitarian Assistance and Disaster Relief operations. The aircraft can also be utilized as a Command and Control aircraft to cater to the domestic air transport of the President and other National and Strategic Defense Leaders of the country.
 
"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 LTGEN ROZZANO D BRIGUEZ AFP stated. 
 
Further, the Ambassador of Spain to the Philippines His Excellency Jorge Moragas expressed his sincere gratitude for the support and assistance in fostering the relationship between Spain and the Philippines. He also assured the support of Spain and its Ministry of Defense to the modernization program of the AFP as he looks forward to the strengthened armed forces. 
 
Secretary Lorenzana extended his congratulations to the PAF for the new acquisition. He also expressed the plans of the AFP to acquire additional C-295M aircraft to further protect the country’s maritime domain.
 
The symbolic turn-over rite was followed by the blessing of and ceremonial pouring of champagne on the new aircraft.
 
The newly-acquired C-295M will begin its operational mission transporting troops, equipment, and relief goods in support of the earthquake-affected victims in Mindanao.