As the country’s defense agencies look into bolstered military modernization, Airbus Chief Representative for the Philippines Jussi Hoikka expressed confidence that the company can handle the increased demand.
Ahead of the bi-annual Asian Defense and Security Exhibition (ADAS) 2024, Hoikka on Tuesday emphasized the company’s growing role in addressing the nation’s security challenges, specifically as the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) embarks on its “Horizon 3” military modernization initiative.
“If we look at the budgets of the DND and the AFP, they’re going up,” he noted. “Our focus today is building on the existing footprint that we have, whether it’s with commercial, helicopters, or defense and space.”
The Philippine Air Force (PAF) currently operates seven C295 aircraft, acquired since 2014, which are crucial for both military and humanitarian operations.
Under the Horizon 3 program, the AFP aims to strengthen its archipelagic defense through the acquisition of maritime assets, aircraft, and radar systems.
“In general we do see defense budgets going up, which has been something that we’ve seen also happening in Europe, that is directly resulting from the tensions that we’re seeing in the region,” Hoikka remarked, adding that Airbus is prepared to meet the AFP’s future military requirements with advanced technologies and aircraft.
The company is proposing new platforms, including C295 Maritime Patrol Aircraft and A330 Multi-Role Tanker Transport (MRTT) aircraft, to bolster operational capabilities.
The A330 MRTT can carry significant fuel loads, enhancing mission efficiency for multirole fighters.
“In the Asia Pacific region, we have sold A330 MRTTs to Australia, Singapore, and South Korea,” he disclosed.
Additionally, Airbus is showcasing the FlexRotor unmanned aerial system and H225M helicopters to support various operational needs.
“We’ve been here since 1997 and the plan is certainly to stay, remain, and grow. I think it’s important to provide customer support, and proximity to our customers is really a part of our strategy,” he replied when asked about the company’s long-term plan for its helicopter division in the Philippines.
Airbus will showcase its latest aerospace innovations at booth #1244 during ADAS 2024.
