Philippines to acquire 8 TC-12B Hurons, to convert to Maritime Patrol Aircraft
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| A Beechcraft TC-12B Huron. Photo c/o John Bezosky Jr. |
The Philippine Navy (PN) bared plans to acquire at least 8 used Beechcraft TC-12B Huron light twin engine aircraft, which it intends to convert into Maritime Patrol Aircraft (MPA), with an estimated cost of around US$59.9 million to cover for all expenses related to the project.
In its latest publication, the PN’s Naval Air Wing (NAW) mentioned that the service received an offer from the Joint US Military Assistance Group (JUSMAG) - Philippines to transfer thirteen (13) units of the Beechcraft TC-12B Huron under the US Excess Defense Article (EDA) and US Foreign Military Financing (FMF) programs.
These aircraft were previously used by the US Navy for multi-engine training program.
The PN has made its intention to acquire at least 8 units, with approval from the PN’s leadership and Capability Cluster Board.
A Joint Inspection of the 13 offered aircraft was scheduled to be conducted by either late September or early October 2020.
The Philippine Navy has expressed its desire to have a number of small maritime patrol aircraft in its fleet. Currently it has 4 Beechcraft C-90 King Air and at least 4 Britten-Normal BN-2 Islander light twin engine aircraft used for maritime surveillance and utility work, although none are equipped with the latest surveillance subsystems.
Meanwhile, the Philippine Air Force is still pursuing the acquisition of 2 new long range maritime patrol aircraft, and is in discussions with the US government for the transfer of at least 2 surplus Lockheed P-3C Orion maritime patrol aircraft.
Philippines to acquire 8 TC-12B Hurons, to convert to Maritime Patrol Aircraft
Reviewed by Asia Pacific Defense Journal
on
October 14, 2020
Rating:
Reviewed by Asia Pacific Defense Journal
on
October 14, 2020
Rating:
Instead of acquiring this SURPLUS Hurons for Maritime Patrol use, much better use the 59 million US in installing the necessary ISR equipment in the TC-90, that's more practical instead of using the very sophisticated EYEBALLS and DLSR Sony Cameras, LOL!
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