Domo Arigato, Japan.
The Philippine Navy just gained a muscle, through its Naval
Air group (NAG) one of the two Beechcraft TC-90 patrol aircraft donated by
Japan early this year has been formally activated. The Navy conducted the TC-90’s
activation and blessing ceremony of the TC-90 at the Hangar 2, Headquarters
Naval Air Group, Naval Base Heracleo Alano, Sangley Point, Cavite City.
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| The Philippine Navy's TC-90 (photo credit to Phil Navy) |
Captain Juario C. Marayag, the commanding officer of the
Naval Air group in his remarks said that the said aircraft donated by Japan
would boost the Naval Air Group Air Operations and Maritime Air Surveillance
capabilities.
He said the aircraft would also enhance the skills of the
naval aviators and maintenance personnel in handling modern equipment.
“This platform will serve as the gradual transition from the
humble Britten Norman Islanders to a much faster, higher and more fixed wing
squadron,” he said.
Rear Admiral Gaudencio C. Collado Jr., the commander of the
Philippine Fleet and who served as the guest of honor during the activity, said
the C90 would have a big role in the maritime air surveillance, which is a
critical component of naval operations.
“It provides a bigger and better perspective of the
operating environment which is crucial for decision making because it will
determine the type of capability needed to address a certain threat,” Collado
said.
The plane is now mission-ready and capable of deployment in
any areas that the Navy headquarters may deem it so.
The plane will have a tail number 390, the TC -90 prior to
its activation was fitted with navigation and maritime air surveillance
equipment aside from some other upgrades.
“It will boost the capability of the Philippine and enhances
the capacity of its personnel primarily in conducting maritime security and
sovereignty patrols, as the Navy true to its commitment to protect the seas and
secure the nation’s future,” he added.
It was last March of this year, the two units of Beechcraft
TC-90 training aircraft arrived at the Naval Air Group (NAG), Naval Base
Haracleo Alano, Sangley Point, Cavite City.
Three other planes are expected to arrive in the country in
the first quarter of 2018.
Report from MB.com.ph
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