Philippines Eyes Indonesian Patrol Aircraft

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MANILA, Philippines - Indonesia could be another source of patrol aircraft for the Philippines as part of the Armed Forces' modernization program, the Department of National Defense (DND) said Monday.

"Indonesia is in the shortlist. We have Indonesia, some are European countries," DND spokesman Peter Paul Galvez told reporters.

A military source said the Philippines is specifically eyeing Indonesia's CN-235 medium-range twin-engined transport plane and Italy's Alenia C-27J Spartan aircraft.

"These are all under negotiation. The project is under study," Galvez said.

"Various manufacturers are being looked into, (aircraft) that are best appropriate for our purposes. (Indonesia) is one of those being looked into (as source)," he added.

He said the airplanes being eyed will be for used maritime surveillance and security missions.

The Philippines is currently using Aermacchi S-211 military trainer aircraft for maritime patrols.

The military is also planning to buy fighter planes.

South Korea's KAI T-50 Golden Eagle supersonic advanced trainers and multi-role fighters are reportedly being considered.

(Abs cbnnews)