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Airbus eyes selling defense drone, military transport, other assets to AFP

Article (news)

Arthur Fuentes

ABS-CBN News

<div> </div><div><img src="https://od2-image-api.abs-cbn.com/prod/editorImage/1727252009317C295 - Paratroopers_C295 - Paratroopers.JPG" style="width:950px" class="fr-fic fr-dib"/>Airbus C295 aircraft. Handout</div>MANILA - Airbus is offering to sell the Philippines defense drones and military transport aircraft as the country hosts the 5th edition of the Asian Defense and Security Exhibition.Airbus showcased its FlexRotor unmanned aerial system or drone, the C295 aircraft which can be used for maritime patrol and surveillance, the A330 tanker aircraft, and the A400M heavy cargo transport, and resupply missions.The European aircraft manufacturer is also offering command, control and communications systems to the Philippines meant for unified air and maritime surveillance, an integrated system for ground-based air defense assets, and other modern defense systems.<div><img src="https://od2-image-api.abs-cbn.com/prod/editorImage/1727252072017FLEXROTOR copy.jpg" style="width:950px" class="fr-fic fr-dib"/>Airbus Flexrotor unmanned aerial system. Handout photo</div>The company noted that the Philippine Air Force already uses Airbus’ C295 aircraft, which the Armed Forces of the Philippines began acquiring in 2014.“The new-generation C295 is a highly versatile and reliable tactical transport, well-suited for the Philippines’ diverse operational needs in military and humanitarian missions. It is capable of carrying up to nine tonnes of payload or up to 71 troops at a maximum cruise speed of 260 kts,” Airbus said.Airbus said that under the AFP’s “Horizon 3” program, the Philippines is focusing on its archipelagic defense, in which the military plans to acquire more maritime assets, aircraft and radar systems.“Airbus is confident of meeting the Philippines’ future military needs with our cutting-edge technologies and aircraft to help the AFP fulfill their missions to protect its sovereignty and ensure the safety of its citizens,” said Airbus Chief Representative for the Philippines, Jussi Hoikka.The company said its FlexRotor drone is designed for Intelligence, Surveillance, Target Acquisition, and Reconnaissance (ISTAR) missions and offers superior operational flexibility in both land and maritime environments.The  Asian Defense and Security Exhibition is being held from Sept. 25 to 27 September at the World Trade Center in Manila.

Airbus is offering to sell the Philippines defense drones and military transport aircraft as the country hosts the 5th edition of the Asian Defense and Security Exhibition.

Airbus is offering to sell the Philippines defense drones and military transport aircraft as the country hosts the 5th edition of the Asian Defense and Security Exhibition.