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Philippine Air Force

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Philippine Air Force
Hukbóng Himpapawid ng Pilipinas
PAF Seal
Insignia of the Philippine Air Force
Active July 1, 1947 – Present
Country Flag of the Philippines Philippines
Allegiance Republic of the Philippines
Type Air force
Size 17,000 active personnel
Part of Armed Forces of the Philippines
Headquarters Villamor Air Base
Motto(s) The "First Force"
March Philippine Air Force Hymn
Engagements World War II
Communist insurgencies
Islamic insurgency
Website www.paf.mil.ph
Commanders
Commanding General US-O9 insignia Lt. Gen. Allen T. Paredes, AFP
Insignia
Roundel Roundel of the Philippines Air Force
Low Visibility Roundel Roundel of the Philippines Air Force-Low Visibility

The Philippine Air Force (PAF) (Tagalog language: Hukbóng Himpapawid ng Pilipinas) is the aerial warfare service branch of the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) and one of the three uniformed services of the Philippines. Initially a part of the Philippine Army (PA), the PAF was formed as a separate branch of the military on July 1, 1947 under Executive Order No. 94. The PAF has the size of 17,000 active personnel which operates its bases and all the aircraft in its inventory.

History[]

Main article: Military history of the Philippines
NicholsField

Nichols Field, which is now known as Villamor Airbase that was situated within the Ninoy Aquino International Airport

The forerunners of the Philippine Air Force were the Philippine Militia, otherwise known as Philippine National Guard (PNG). Senate President Manuel L. Quezon enacted a bill on March 17, 1917 for the creation of the Philippine Militia, the bill was known as Militia Act 2715. It was enacted in anticipation that there would be an outbreak of hostilities between United States and Germany.[1]

By the end of the First World War, the US Army and Navy began selling aircraft and equipment to the Philippine Militia Commission. The Commission then hired the services of the Curtiss School of Aviation to provide flight training to 33 students at a local base in Parañaque.

PAF P-51 Mustang

PAF P-51 Mustang

The early aviation unit was however, still lacking knowledge and equipment to be considered as an air force and was then limited only to air transport duties.[1] On January 2, 1935,Philippine Military Aviation was activated when the 10th Congress passed Commonwealth Act 1494 that provided for the organization of the Philippine Constabulary Air Corps (PCAC). PCAC was renamed as the Philippine Army Air Corps (PAAC) on 1936. It started with only three planes on its inventory. On 1941, PAAC has a total of 54 aircraft ranging from pursuit (fighters) light bombers, reconnaissance aircraft, light transport and trainers.[1] They later engaged the Japanese on their invasion of the Philippines in 1941-42, and was reformed in 1945 after the country's liberation.

The PAF became a separate military service on July 1, 1947, when President Manuel Roxas issued Executive Order No. 94. This order created the Philippine Naval Patrol and the Air Force as equal branches of the Philippine Army and the Philippine Constabulary under the now Armed Forces of the Philippines[2] becoming Southeast Asia's third air force as a result.

The main aircraft type in the earlier era of the PAF was the P-51 Mustang, flown from 1947 to 1959. Ground attack missions were flown against various insurgent groups, with aircraft hit by ground fire but none shot down. In the 1950s the Mustang was used by the Blue Diamonds aerobatic display team.[3] These would be replaced by the jet-powered North American F-86 Sabres in the late 1950s, assisted by Lockheed T-33 Shooting Star and Beechcraft T-34 Mentor trainers.

The PAF saw its first international action in the Congo under the UN peacekeeping mission in 1960.

Commanding generals[]

The following are the list of Commanding Generals of the PAF:[4]

  • Lt. Gen. Pelagio A. Cruz (9 June 1947 - 27 October 1947 (acting); 3 November 1953 - 31 July 1956)
  • Brig. Gen. Eustacio D. Orobia
  • Brig. Gen. Benito Nicano R. Ebuen
  • Maj. Gen. Pedro Q. Molina
  • Brig. Gen. Jonas A. Victoria
  • Brig. Gen. Agusto L. Jurado
  • Maj. Gen. Victor Dizon
  • Brig. Gen. Jose B. Ramos
  • Brig. Gen. Emmanuel S. Casabar
  • Brig. Gen. Juan B. Guevarra
  • Brig. Gen. Jesus Z. Singson
  • Brig. Gen. Jose L. Rancudo
  • Maj. Gen. Samuel O. Sarmiento
  • Brig. Gen. Petronio M. Lapena
  • Maj. Gen. Vicente M. Piccio, Jr.
  • Maj. Gen. Ramon J. Farolan, Jr.
  • Lt. Gen. Antonio E. Sotelo
  • Maj. Gen. Jose De Leon, Jr.
  • Maj.Gen. Geraldo C. Protacio
  • Lt. Gen. Loven C. Abadia
  • Maj. Gen. Leopoldo Acot
  • Lt. Gen. Nicasio Rodriguez, Jr.
  • Lt. Gen. William K. Hotchkiss III
  • Lt. Gen. Willie Cacdac Florendo
  • Lt. Gen. Benjamin P. Defensor, Jr.
  • Lt. Gen. Nestor R. Santillan
  • Lt. Gen. Jose L. Reyes
  • Lt. Gen. Horacio Tolentino
  • Lt. Gen. Pedrito Sinco Cadungog
  • Lt. Gen. Oscar H. Rabena
  • Lt. Gen. Lauro Catalino dela Cruz

Modernization programs[]

Main article: AFP Modernization Act

Over 15 years after the 1995 passage of the Armed Forces Philippines (AFP) Moderation Program (Republic Act 7898),[5] the Philippine Air Force remains in dire need of modernization. The current incarnation of the AFP modernization program is the Capability Upgrade Program (CUP)[6] which defers PAF-related modernization efforts to the second and third phases of a three-phase program. Much to the consternation of PAF observers and personnel, the first phase, dubbed "Back to Basics" focuses on improving the AFP's ability to conduct Internal Security Operations (ISO). What little funding the PAF receives in this phase revolve around the PAF's role in supporting ground operations.

More advanced aircraft are expected in Phases 2 and 3 of the CUP, which is when genuine modernization is expected to start. PAF-related components of these phases are grouped into what it calls "Horizon programs", with Horizon 2 expected to begin in the 2010 to 2012 time frame.[7][dated info]

Assets acquired during the modernization program are: 8 PZL W-3 Sokół, and 18 SF-260F.[8]

Combat aircraft[]

Multi-role fighters[]

There were several occasions that the PAF tried to modernize its fighter aircraft force, which was left to decline for several decades.

In 1991 the newly democratic Russian government offered the PAF several of its aircraft including the Mikoyan MiG-29 and Sukhoi Su-27 during a demonstration held at Villamor Air Base. In 1992 the PAF received offers for both the IAI Kfir and the F-16 Fighting Falcon.[9]

After the enactment of the 1995 AFP Modernization Act, the PAF made renewed calls to purchase several fighter aircraft, with the initial plan of having 36 multirole fighters in a span of 15 years.[5] Offers included the American Lockheed Martin F-16C/D Falcon and McDonnell Douglas (now Boeing) F-18C/D Hornet, French Dassault Mirage 2000-5, and the Russian Mikoyan MiG-29. Also offered as alternatives were the embargoed Pakistani F-16A/Bs and ex-French Air Force Mirage F1, and ex-South African Air Force Denel Cheetahs which were rejected as the government was then inclined on obtaining new-build platforms.[10] However, these modernization programs were put on hold after the Philippines' economy was impacted by the 1997 Asian Financial Crisis.

Renewed interest would later come on used platforms. In June 2010, the Department of National Defense (DND) was also looking at Canada for used CF-18s or France for its used Mirage F1s, although no decision or purchase came up.[6]

On December 2011, the DND and Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) was tasked to formally request at least a squadron of 12 ex-USAF F-16C/D fighter jets, most probably Block 25 or 30 which would be refurbished to either Block 50 or 52 standards.[11] This was discussed during the US-Philippines "2+2" Meeting on 30 April 2012. The Philippine government will be paying for refurbishing, maintenance and pilot training which will run for two years.[12]

However by 2012 the maintenance costs for the used fighters were found to be too high so attention turned to new jet trainers that could be converted into jet fighters. The requirements were listed as "supersonic ability, multifunction displays and On Board Oxygen Generation System."[13] A DND spokesman has said that aircraft from France, the United Kingdom, Italy, and South Korea were considered.[14]

Surface attack aircraft/Lead-in fighter trainer[]

Since the 1990s, the Philippine Air Force has been using the S-211 as a Trainer with secondary Attack Capability. These were redesignated as AS-211s and nicknamed as "Warriors". With the retirement of the F-5 fighters in 2005, the additional task of air defense was assigned to it as well. Because of this, the Philippine Air Force initiated some improvements to the AS-211s to improve its combat capability thru a series of programs and innovations.

The AS-211 were eventually upgraded by fitting the Norsight Optical Sight and AN/ARC-34 UHF Radios from retired F-5s. It is also equipped with a .50 caliber belly Gun Pod made by Aerotech Industries Philippines, Inc. (AIPI).[15][16]

In May 2010, Air Force chief Lt. Gen. Oscar Rabena announced that the PAF was ordered to submit generic types of advanced jet trainers that will replace the S-211.[17] According to Gen. Rabena, they are choosing models from Europe and Asia, and following evaluation, the Department of National Defense will open bidding for the purchase of such aircraft.[17]

On March 2012, the AMX fighter was one of the items inspected by a DND delegation Italy possible procurement of used AMX aircraft, although no official information has been released if purchases will be made on the said aircraft.[18]

A requirement for at least six (6) new Lead-in Fighter Trainers (LIFT) that will also fill in the Surface Attack Aircraft (SAA) role was announced by the PAF and DND on 2011. But this was revised to twelve (12) units during announcements by the DND and PAF in 2012. The offers made to the PAF and DND were the following:

On June 19, 2012, it was reported that the Department of National Defense (DND) selected the supersonic TA-50 Golden Eagle from South Korea to augment the need of the Philippine Air Force for advanced trainers which can also be converted as fighter jets. The Philippines intends to acquire 12 units at PhP 1.25 billion (USD 29.4 million) each.[24][25]

And in July 2012, state media reported that the selection had been narrowed down to the TA-50, M-346, Yak-130 or the BAE Hawk.[26]

On 30 January 2013, it has been confirmed by Philippine government that the FA-50 Golden Eagle lead in fighter trainer has been selected for acquisition for 18.9 billion pesos ($309 million).[27] 12 units are to be purchased.[28] As of April 23, 2013, the Department of National Defense (DND) is in the last stages of procuring the FA-50.[29][30]

Close air support aircraft[]

OV-10 Bronco in Lumbia

PAF OV-10 Broncos parked at PAF detachment, Lumbia Airport

The Philippine Air Force is looking to replace entire OV-10 Bronco fleet which are currently used for close air support and aerial reconnaissance platforms. Being considered are the Hawker Beechcraft AT-6B Texan II, Embraer EMB-314 Super Tucano, KAI KA-1 Woongbi, and, reportedly, the Air Tractor Air Tractor AT-802U.[31] A decision from the PAF & DND was expected to be released by July 2012.

Hawker Beechcraft demonstrated their AT-6B Texan II, together with their other aircraft line, in April 2012 with a display at Clark Air Base.[32]

On 20 June 2012, it was reported that the Embraer EMB 314 Super Tucano from Brazil was chosen and a total of 6 units will be acquired for PhP4.968 billion (USD 115 million).[33]

Helicopters[]

The Department of National Defense, on behalf of the PAF, is currently pursuing the following acquisition projects: eight (8) Combat Utility Helicopters (CUH),[34] 7 attack helicopters (AH)[35] and 10 additional UH-1H helicopters.[36]

PZL W-3 Sokol (Combat Utility Helicopter)[]

On December 2009, the DND issued a notice of award worth PhP 2.8 billion to PZL Swidnik S.A. of Poland, as the winner of the Combat Utility Helicopter (CUH) program for eight (8) PZL W-3 Sokol helicopters.[37] The first batch of four helicopters was delivered in February 2012,[8] and a second batch of two units were delivered on November 2012.[38] The final two units were delivered on 15 February 2013.[39]

Armed scout helicopter (Attack Helicopter)[]

An older acquisition project, the Night Capable Attack Helicopter (NCAH), was abandoned due to procedural irregularities. The Office of the Ombudsman is currently investigating this project.[40]

Engines of 20 MD-520 attack helicopters are currently being overhauled. The PAF elected to pursue this project via FMS.[41]

On 20 June 2012, it was reported that the Eurocopter AS550 Fennec armed helicopters from France was chosen and a total of 10 units will be acquired for PhP 3.4 billion (USD 79 million).[33] But it was reported that the helicopters being offered by Eurocopter are no longer available.[42]

On July 26, 2013 It was reported that AgustaWestland was the only bidder for the Php 3.4 billion Attack helicopter acquisition project, Boeing, MD Helicopters and Eurocopter backed out due to unknown reasons.[43]

On Oct. 28, 2013 it was announced that a notice of award was issued to AgustaWestland. The company offered the AW109 Power.[44][45]

On Nov. 6, 2013 it was announced by AgustaWestland that the PAF has signed a contract for 8 AW109 Power helicopters and the deliveries will start at 2014.[46]

Additional UH-1[]

Five (5) refurbished UH-1H helicopters from the United States government were handed-over to the PAF on 10 January 2011.[47]

On 20 June 2012, it was reported that an additional 21 units of used UH-1D Huey utility helicopters from an unspecified country will be acquired for PhP1.2 billion (US$27.9 million).[33] The helicopters will come from the United States and are expected to be delivered by December 2012.[48] But it was reported the bidding failed because the two firms that submitted offers had failed to meet certain eligibility requirements.[49]

On 31 January 2013, 2 more firms joined the bidding for 21 UH-1H helicopters for the Philippine Air Force, the American firm Rice Aircraft Services Inc. and the Israel-based Radom Aviation Systems Ltd. The AFP wants these helicopters delivered on or before March 31. The government has also allocated P1.26 billion for the purchase of the helicopters and the integrated logistics support package.[50]

On February 14, 2013, it was reported that Radom Aviation Systems Ltd. backed out, leaving Rice Aircraft Services Inc. the only bidder,[51] but the company failed to meet some requirements during the post-qualification phase.[52]

On August 5, 2013, it was reported that the DND was prompted to schedule a third bidding for the project because 14 companies have expressed interest to supply 21 Huey helicopters to the Air Force.[52]

Training aircraft[]

Additional T-41s[]

As part of a defense aid of South Korea to the Philippines, fifteen (15) additional former ROKAF T-41Bs arrived on December 4, 2008 in disassembled form. These arrived at the 410th Maintenance Wing in Clark AFB, whose personnel completed re-assembly of the aircraft. These were inaugurated into service on March 5.[53]

New SF-260F[]

After being delayed due to exchange rate issue,[53] Aerotech Industries Philippines, the domestic partner of Alenia Aermacchi, delivered 18 locally-assembled SF-260F aircraft to the air force, with deliveries completed by 3rd quarter 2011.[54] These would serve the Primary Training program and will be complemented by the existing fleet of older SF-260TP purchased in early 1990s and remaining SF-260Ms purchased in the mid-1970s.[55]

Transport aircraft[]

Used C-130[]

US Navy 080629-N-5961C-001 Servicemen from both the Philippine Air Force and Army unload a C-130 aircraft of food and water for transfer to waiting U.S

Servicemen unload a Philippine C-130 bringing relief supplies to Panay Island

With a shortage of transport aircraft, the Philippine Air Force announced in February 2010 its intention to purchase a refurbished C-130H and three smaller transport aircraft to augment its fleet,[56][57] and an invitation to bid was released with DERCO Aerospace declared as the only bidder with an ex-Tunisian Air Force C-130H.[57] This might eventually replace the N-22B Nomad transport planes currently in service.[58] But by June 2011, the DND declared a failure of bidding and instead are now looking for EDA from friendly countries.

In December 2011, President Noynoy Aquino promised to buy at least two more C-130 cargo aircraft by 2012.[59][60]

Refurbishing of C-130[]

Two Philippine Air Force C-130 underwent a Programmed Depot Maintenance (PDM), one C-130H t/n 4704 with British Aerospace in California, United States while the other, a C-130B, is with PAF's 410th Maintenance Wing at Clark Air Base.[60][61] The C-130H arrived in Manila on 17 October 2012,[62] while the C-130B with t/n 3633 returned to active status on 28 December 2012. Another C-130 is expected to go through a similar recovery and overhaul program by the 410th Maintenance Wing.[63]

Medium lift aircraft[]

On 20 June 2012, it was reported that the Alenia C-27J Spartan medium lift transport aircraft was chosen and a total of 3 units will be acquired for PhP5.9 billion (USD 137 million).[33]

Light lift aircraft[]

On 20 June 2012, it was reported that the IPTN NC-212 Aviocar light lift transport aircraft from Indonesia was chosen and a total of 2 units will be acquired for PhP 814 million (USD 18.9 million).[33]

On September 26, 2013 the DND declared PT Dirgantara Indonesia/Indonesian Aerospace as the only qualified bidder. They are offering the Series 200, Series 300 and the Series 400 versions of the IPTN NC-212 Aviocar.[64]

Miscellaneous reports[]

Question book-new

The factual accuracy of this article may be compromised due to out-of-date information

According to Air Force Public Information officer Major Gerardo M. Zamudio Jr., that aside from the new SF-260 trainer planes and night capable attack helicopters, the PAF is set to purchase under its capability upgrade program, 6 advanced primary trainer aircraft, 10 additional Huey UH-1H utility helicopters, 8 brand new combat utility helicopters, 7 new attack helicopters, 2 light lift aircraft, and 12 trainer helicopters.

It was reported that the Philippine Air Force (PAF) is acquiring three radars with a project cost of about P2.3 billion. Major General Raul Dimatatac told reporters, “We are looking at installing three radars for our three major sites.“ The radars, he said, are among those listed in the PAF’s wish list in the P75-billion military modernization budget in the next five years.[65]

These acquisitions and upgrades, including aerial surveillance cameras, communication equipment, 1.2-ton trucks, and additional military hardware, are part of PAF’s Horizon 1, the internal security - centered stage of modernization focused on making insurgent groups irrelevant by the year 2010.[dated info]

Horizon 2, the transition stage to territorial defense, is set to take effect by 2012.[66] Air Force Chief Lt. Gen. Pedrito Cadungog said the Air Force is presently in the process of making a study of what type of fighter jets they are going to acquire. He said the acquisition can only start after 2010 which is the projected defeat of internal security threats.[67][dated info]

Aircraft inventory[]

Active aircraft[]

S-211 PAF 2

An S-211 from the 7th Tactical Fighter Squadron Squadron of the Philippine Air Force

UH-1N-3

A UH-1N helicopter, with Philippine Army officers aboard, prepares to land.

As of 2014, the backbone of the PAF inventory consists of:

Aircraft Origin Type[68] Versions Active[68] Notes
Fixed-wing aircraft
SIAI Marchetti S-211 Flag of Italy Italy Light attack aircraft/Basic jet trainer AS-211 5[69][70] Locally upgraded to AS-211 "Warrior" standard to do air-to-ground missions. 7 more airframes stored, waiting for reactivation.[71]
Rockwell International OV-10 Bronco United States Light attack/Surveillance aircraft OV-10A/C/SLEP 11[69][72] Some OV-10A upgraded to OV-10SLEP by March Aviation. 5 OV-10C provided by Thailand in 2003-2004, more may follow.[73] Upgraded to deliver Paveway LGB.
Alenia Aermacchi SF-260 Flag of Italy Italy Light attack aircraft and Primary trainer SF-260TP/MP
SF-260FH		 20
18[69]		 20 older "MP" & "TP" models & 18 new units SF-260F (designated "FH") as of 2012.[54] Some "M" and "TP" models configured for light attack.
Lockheed C-130 Hercules United States Heavy tactical transport C-130B/H 3 H model t/n 4726 & 4704, and B model t/n 3633.[74] 6 more C-130B & L-100-20 stored[75]
Fokker F27 Friendship Flag of the Netherlands Netherlands VIP transport
Maritime Patrol Aircraft
Medium tactical transport		 F27-200
F27-200MAR
F27-500F		 1
1
1		 F27-200 t/n 59-0259 (c/n 10115),[76] F27-200MAR c/n 10620,[77] F27-500F c/n 10669[78][79]
Fokker F28 Fellowship Flag of the Netherlands Netherlands VIP Transport F28-3000 1 VIP transport t/n 1250[80]
GAF N-22 Nomad Flag of Australia Australia Light transport aircraft N-22B 1[81] t/n C-87 and 2 more.
Rockwell International Turbo Commander United States Surveillance aircraft TC-690 1[69]
Cessna T-41 Mescalero United States Primary pilot trainer T-41B/D 29 14 T-41D, plus 15 T-41B from South Korea added 2009[82]
Cessna 210 Centurion United States light utility aircraft LC-210 1 t/n 227, rain-making aircraft[74]
Helicopters
PZL W-3A Sokół Flag of Poland Poland Combat utility helicopter W-3A 8[83] Operated by the 505th Search and Rescue Group.[84]
Sikorsky S-70 Black Hawk United States VIP transport S-70A-5 1[79] 2 delivered in 1984 but 1 crashed & written-off.
McDonnell Douglas MD-500 Defender United States Scout/Light Attack Helicopter MD-520MG 25[69]
Sikorsky S-76 United States SAR / Combat SAR Helicopter S-76A/AUH-76A 10[69] The PAF originally received 17 aircraft.
Bell UH-1 Iroquois United States Combat utility helicopter UH-1H
Huey II		 46[85]
2		 Only 21 available at any time. PAF acquired license in 2003 to perform in-house Huey II upgrades[86]
Bell 205 United States SAR helicopter 8[69]
Bell 412 United States VIP transport 3[87] These aircraft are leased, and operated by the Presidential Airlift Wing.[88]

Former aircraft[]

Main article: List of former aircraft of the Philippine Air Force

As Philippine Army Air Corps[]

Main article: Philippine Army Air Corps

Organization in 2006[]

15th Strike Wing [89] HQ, Maj. Danillo S. Atienza AB, Sangley Point, Cavite)
16th Attack Squadron (Eagles)[90] OV-10A/C/A SLEP
17th Attack Squadron (Jaguars)[91] SF.260TP
18th Attack Squadron (Falcons)[92] MD-520MG
20th Attack Squadron (Firebirds)[93] MD-520MG
25th Attack Squadron (Lobos)[94] OV-10A/C/A SLEP; SF.260TP; MD-520MG
Air Defense Wing Basa AB, Pampanga
7th Tactical Fighter Squadron (Bulldogs) S-211
205th Tactical Helicopter Wing HQ, Benito Ebuen AB, Mactan Island, Cebu
206th Tactical Helicopter Squadron (Hornets) UH-1H
207th Tactical Helicopter Squadron (Stingers) UH-1H
208th Tactical Helicopter Squadron (Daggers) UH-1H
220th Airlift Wing HQ, Benito Ebuen AB, Mactan Island, Cebu
221st Tactical Airlift Squadron (Fokkers) Fokker F-27
222nd Tactical Airlift Squadron (Hercules) C-130B/H
223rd Tactical Airlift Squadron (Nomads) N-22B/C Nomad
Air Education and Training Command Basilio Fernando AB, Lipa
101st Primary Flying Training Sqn (Wildcat) T-41D/Cessna 172-k
102nd Basic Flying Training Sqn (Cougar) SF.260MP
505th Search and Rescue Group (Angels) HQ, Col. Jesus A. Villamor AB, Pasay City, Metro Manila
5051st Search and Rescue Squadron Huey II, Bell 205, S-76, UH-1H
5052nd Search and Rescue Squadron Huey II, Bell 205, S-76, UH-1H
5053rd Search and Rescue Squadron Huey II, Bell 205, S-76, UH-1H
5056th Search and Rescue Squadron Huey II, Bell 205, S-76, UH-1H
250th Presidential Airlift Wing (Code one) Col. Jesus A. Villamor AB, Pasay City, Metro Manila
251st Presidential Airlift Squadron Fokker F28
252nd Presidential Helicopter Squadron S-76, S-70A, Bell 212, Bell 412
900th Weather Support Group Col. Jesus A. Villamor AB, Pasay City, Metro Manila
901st Weather Squadron Cessna T-210TG

Bases[]

The Philippine Air Force has twelve bases located throughout the archipelago.

Luzon[]

Clark Air Base aerial 1989
An aerial photo of the Clark Airbase in Pampanga
File:WallaceAS.JPEG
An aerial photo of the Wallace Air Station

Luzon contains has the largest concentration of installations. Seven of the twelve bases located throughout the country lies within Luzon. The headquarters, the Villamor Airbase, is located at Pasay. It is also the home of the 250th Presidential Airlift Wing. Two bases lies at the province of Pampanga, the Clark Airbase and the Basa Airbase. The Clark Airbase at Clark International Airport (Clark Freeport Zone) in Angeles is the home of the Air Logistics Command and the 710th Special Operations Wing. Meanwhile, the Basa Airbase in Floridablanca is the home of the Air Defense Wing.

Another base located within Luzon is the Fernando Airbase in Lipa, Batangas. It is the home of the Air Education and Training Command and the Air Force Research and Development Center.

Other bases in Luzon includes the Danilo Atienza Airbase in Cavite City which is the home to the 15th Strike Wing, the Antonio Bautista Airbase in Palawan which is the home of the 570th Compostie Tactical Wing, and the Wallace Air Station in San Fernando which is the home of the 580th Control And Warning Wing.

Visayas[]

The Visayan Islands has one airbase, the Benito Ebuen Air Base in Mactan and is the home of the 220th Airlift Wing.

Mindanao[]

Four airbases are situated in Mindanao, namely the Edwin Andrews Air Base in Zamboanga (home of the 530th Composite Tactical Wing), Rajah Buayan Air Base in General Santos International Airport at General Santos, an airbase at Lumbia Airport in Cagayan de Oro and the TOG Sanga-Sanga in Tawi-Tawi.

See also[]

References[]

Notes
  1. ↑ 1.0 1.1 1.2 "History". Philippine Air Force. http://www.paf.mil.ph/history.html. Retrieved July 21, 2012. 
  2. ↑ "PAF History". paf.mil.ph. Philippine Air Force. http://www.paf.mil.ph/newhistory12/part2.html. Retrieved 2012-06-24. 
  3. ↑ Hellstroem, Leif. Philippine Front Line: P-51 Mustangs with the Philippine Air Force Air Enthusiast #75 May–June 1998 pp52-61
  4. ↑ "Chiefs of PAF from present to past". paf.mil.ph. Philippine Air Force. http://www.paf.mil.ph/CHIEF%20OF%20PAF.html. Retrieved 2012-06-24. 
  5. ↑ 5.0 5.1 "Republic Act 7898: AFP Modernization Act". Congress, Republic of the Philippines. 1995-02-23. http://www.gppb.gov.ph/laws_rules/laws/RA_7898.pdf. Retrieved 2009-04-08. 
  6. ↑ 6.0 6.1 "Philippine Defense Reform". Department of National Defense. 2005-01-19. Archived from the original on 2008-08-22. http://web.archive.org/web/20080822093649/http://www.dnd.gov.ph/DNDWEBPAGE_files/PDR-NEW/09-aug-07.htm. Retrieved 2009-04-08.  Cite error: Invalid <ref> tag; name "cup" defined multiple times with different content
  7. ↑ Joel Guinto (2008-07-15). "AFP aims for 70% capability vs internal threats". Inquirer.net. http://newsinfo.inquirer.net/breakingnews/nation/view/20080715-148614/AFP-aims-for-70-capability-vs-internal-threats. Retrieved 2009-04-08. 
  8. ↑ 8.0 8.1 "First Batch of Philippine Air Force Sokols Enter Service". PZL Świdnik. http://www.pzl.swidnik.pl/en/first-batch-of-philippine-air-force-sokols-enter-service/0,-da,1. 
  9. ↑ "Modernization Options". Opus224's Unofficial Philippine Defense Page. http://www.timawa.net/modernization-paf.htm. 
  10. ↑ "Manila narrows fighter choice". Flight International. 1996-10-15. http://www.flightglobal.com/articles/1996/07/10/12414/manila-narrows-fighter-choice.html. 
  11. ↑ "Philippines seeks 12 F-16 fighter jets from US". Huffington Post. December 21, 2011. http://www.huffingtonpost.com/huff-wires/20111221/as-philippines-us/. Retrieved 2012-01-18. 
  12. ↑ "PAF seeks 12 F-16 fighter jets from US". April 19, 2012. http://philippineairspace.blogspot.com/2012/04/paf-seeks-12-f-16-fighter-jets-from-us.html. 
  13. ↑ "Purchase of new jet fighter eyed." BusinessWorld, 16 May 2012.
  14. ↑ Dudley, Richard. "Philippines Looking to Buy Non-USA Combat Aircraft." Defense Update, 20 May 2012.
  15. ↑ "SIAI-Marchetti AS-211 Warrior"
  16. ↑ "Belly Pod for PAF's S-211"
  17. ↑ 17.0 17.1 "PAF getting 18 new training jets at P660M". Business Mirror. 2010-05-19. http://businessmirror.com.ph/index.php?option=com_content&view=article&id=25373:paf-getting-18-new-training-jets-at-p660m&catid=23:topnews&Itemid=58. Retrieved 2010-05-22. [dead link] Cite error: Invalid <ref> tag; name "BM" defined multiple times with different content
  18. ↑ "DND signs five-year agreement with Italy". The Philippine Star. February 8, 2012. http://www.philstar.com/Article.aspx?articleId=775432&publicationSubCategoryId=63. Retrieved February 20, 2012. 
  19. ↑ "Armed trainers to help Philippines rebuild fighter capability". Flightglobal (c/o Flight International). 2011-07-04. http://www.flightglobal.com/news/articles/armed-trainers-to-help-philippines-rebuild-fighter-capability-359091/. Retrieved 2012-04-20. 
  20. ↑ 20.0 20.1 "Russia’s Yak-130 Joins Philippine Combat Trainer Tender". RIA Novosti. 2012-04-18. http://en.rian.ru/world/20120418/172892388.html. Retrieved 2012-04-20. 
  21. ↑ "Italy's Alenia seeks to supply DND up to P6.87-B worth of aircraft". GMA News. 2012-04-03. http://www.gmanetwork.com/news/story/253724/economy/companies/italy-s-alenia-seeks-to-supply-dnd-up-to-p6-87-b-worth-of-aircraft. Retrieved 2012-04-20. 
  22. ↑ 22.0 22.1 22.2 22.3 22.4 "Farnborough 2012: KAI confident T-50 family ready for Philippines, other international markets". IHS Janes. 2012-07-13. http://www.janes.com/products/janes/defence-security-report.aspx?ID=1065969543. Retrieved 2012-07-13. 
  23. ↑ "Aero Vodochody by chtělo Filipíncům prodat cvičné letouny L-159". Cesky Rozhlas (Czech Radio). 2012-03-20. http://www.rozhlas.cz/zpravy/domaciekonomika/_zprava/aero-vodochody-by-chtelo-filipincum-prodat-cvicne-letouny-l159--1034234. Retrieved 2012-04-20. 
  24. ↑ "Deal for 12 fighter jets signed soon: DND". ABS-CBNnews.com. 2012-06-20. http://www.abs-cbnnews.com/nation/06/20/12/deal-12-fighter-jets-signed-soon-dnd. Retrieved 2012-11-17. 
  25. ↑ "Air Force to acquire 12 jet fighters from Korea". ABS-CBNnews.com. 2012-06-19. http://www.abs-cbnnews.com/nation/06/19/12/air-force-acquire-12-jet-fighters-korea. Retrieved 2012-11-17. 
  26. ↑ "Philippines eyes 4 countries to buy fighter jets." The Mindanao Examiner July 17, 2012
  27. ↑ "Philippines to buy 12 S. Korean fighter jets" Agence France-Presse January 30, 2013
  28. ↑ http://www.businessweek.com/news/2013-01-30/philippines-nears-443-million-deal-for-south-korea-fighter-jets
  29. ↑ http://www.abs-cbnnews.com/nation/04/22/13/ph-nears-deal-purchase-korean-fighter-jets
  30. ↑ "12 South Korea Fighter Jets Ready For Delivery To Philippine". October 20, 2013. http://www.philstar.com/headlines/2013/10/19/1246863/12-sokor-fighter-jets-ready-delivery-phl. 
  31. ↑ "Philippines to consider OV-10 replacement". Flightglobal. 2011-01-18. http://www.flightglobal.com/articles/2011/01/18/351920/philippines-to-consider-ov-10-replacement.html. Retrieved 2012-04-28. 
  32. ↑ [1]
  33. ↑ 33.0 33.1 33.2 33.3 33.4 "Kickback, ikinakatakot sa pagbili ng fighter jets". ABS-CBNnews.com. 2012-06-20. http://www.abs-cbnnews.com/video/nation/06/20/12/corruption-fears-raised-fighter-jet-deal. Retrieved 2012-06-21. 
  34. ↑ "Invitation to Apply for Eligibility and to Bid (IAEB): Combat Utility Helicopter Acquisition Project". Department of National Defense. 2008-07-14. http://www.dnd.gov.ph/DNDWEBPAGE_files/dndbac/acafp/iab4.pdf. Retrieved 2009-04-08. [dead link]
  35. ↑ "Invitation to Apply for Eligibility and to Bid (IAEB): Attack Helicopter Acquisition Project". Department of National Defense. 2008-10-15. http://www.dnd.gov.ph/DNDWEBPAGE_files/dndbac/ITB/OCT-08/Attack%20Helicopter.pdf. Retrieved 2009-04-08. [dead link]
  36. ↑ "Invitation to Apply for Eligibility and to Bid (IAEB): UH-1H Materiel Acquisition Project". Department of National Defense. 2008-04-07. http://www.dnd.gov.ph/DNDWEBPAGE_files/dndbac/acafp/iab2.pdf. Retrieved 2009-04-08. [dead link]
  37. ↑ Notice of Award (December 2009) (archived from the original on 2009-12-29).
  38. ↑ Second batch of Sokols delivered to the Philippine Air Force.
  39. ↑ PZL-Świdnik completes the delivery of Sokol helicopters to the Philippine Air Force from Lublin Airport.
  40. ↑ "P1.2B night attack chopper deal goes to Ombudsman". Malaya. 2009-02-11. http://www.malaya.com.ph/feb11/news2.htm. Retrieved 2009-04-08. 
  41. ↑ "Status of acquisitions". Department of National Defense. 2008-11-21. http://www.dnd.gov.ph/DNDWEBPAGE_files/dndbac/status%20acquisition%20Proj%20Undertaken%20by%20DNDBAC%2011-21-08.pdf. Retrieved 2009-04-08. [dead link][dead link]
  42. ↑ http://www.philstar.com/headlines/2012/12/02/878637/phl-loses-chance-acquire-attack-helicopters
  43. ↑ http://www.philstar.com/headlines/2013/07/26/1014771/anglo-italian-firm-lone-bidder-p3.4-b-air-force-project
  44. ↑ "Italian firm bags P3-B PAF helicopter deal". philstar.com. 28 October 2013. http://www.philstar.com/headlines/2013/10/28/1250261/italian-firm-bags-p3-b-paf-helicopter-deal. Retrieved 29 October 2013. 
  45. ↑ "Philippines Air Force Signs Contract for Eight AgustaWesland AW109 Power helicopters". November 5, 2013. http://www.airrecognition.com/index.php/archive-world-worldwide-news-air-force-aviation-aerospace-air-military-defence-industry/2013-global-news-worldwide-world-international-air-force-aviation-/november-2013-global-news-worldwide-world-international-air-force-aviation-aerospace-/867-philippines-air-force-signs-contract-for-eight-agustawesland-aw109-power-helicopters.html. 
  46. ↑ "Philippine Air Force Signs Contract for Eight AW109 Power helicopters". AgustaWestland. 6 November 2013. http://www.agustawestland.com/news/philippine-air-force-signs-contract-eight-aw109-power-helicopters. Retrieved 7 November 2013. 
  47. ↑ "P1.2B night attack chopper deal goes to Ombudsman". Department of National Defense - Office of Public and Legislative Affairs. 2011-01-10. http://www.dnd.gov.ph/DNDWEBPAGE_files/Gazmin/PHOTOS/Photo%20Captions_Hueys.pdf. Retrieved 2012-06-30. 
  48. ↑ "PAF to get 25 more helicopters in December". Interaksyon.com (TV5). 2012-06-25. http://www.interaksyon.com/article/35671/paf-to-get-25-more-helicopters-in-december. Retrieved 2012-06-25. 
  49. ↑ http://www.philstar.com/headlines/2012/12/06/881391/bidding-purchase-21-helicopters-fails
  50. ↑ http://www.philstar.com/headlines/2013/02/01/903531/2-firms-join-bidding-21-paf-helicopters
  51. ↑ http://www.philstar.com/headlines/2013/02/14/908597/us-firm-offering-21-hueys-p1.2b-phl
  52. ↑ 52.0 52.1 http://www.philstar.com/headlines/2013/08/05/1053591/14-firms-eye-paf-helicopter-supply-deal
  53. ↑ 53.0 53.1 "SND, CGPAF to lead maiden flight of 15 PAF T-41Bs". Public Information Office, PAF. 2009-03-04. http://www.paf.mil.ph/HQ/PIO/PR%20Month%20of%20March%202009/paf%20gets%20t41%20news%202.htm. Retrieved 2009-04-08.  Cite error: Invalid <ref> tag; name "t41" defined multiple times with different content
  54. ↑ 54.0 54.1 "PAF boosts capability, ready for modernization". Philippine Information Agency. http://archives.pia.gov.ph/?m=1&t=1&id=55918&y=2011&mo=09. Retrieved 2012-04-04. 
  55. ↑ "SF.260 in military service". SIAI Marchetti aircraft. http://www.siai-marchetti.nl/sf260mil.html. Retrieved 2012-04-05. 
  56. ↑ "Philippine air force plans new transports deal". Flightglobal. 2010-02-22. http://www.flightglobal.com/articles/2010/02/22/338650/philippine-air-force-plans-new-transports-deal.html. Retrieved 2010-04-02. 
  57. ↑ 57.0 57.1 "RP to have 1st surveillance aircraft soon". Philstar.com. 2010-03-21. http://www.philstar.com/Article.aspx?articleId=559882&publicationSubCategoryId=63. Retrieved 2010-04-02.  Cite error: Invalid <ref> tag; name "philstar1" defined multiple times with different content
  58. ↑ "AFP to acquire light-lift aircraft - official". GMA News.tv. 2008-07-16. http://www.gmanews.tv/story/107169/AFP-to-acquire-light-lift-aircraft---official. Retrieved 2010-04-02. 
  59. ↑ Virgilio M Gaje. "PIA daily news in English, Tagalog, Cebuano, Hiligaynon, Ilocano, Waray, Pangalatok from around the Philippines". Pia.gov.ph. http://www.pia.gov.ph/?m=1&t=1&id=69173. Retrieved 2012-01-16. 
  60. ↑ 60.0 60.1 "Manila looks abroad for used C-130H". FlightGlobal. 2012-01-13. http://www.flightglobal.com/news/articles/manila-looks-abroad-for-used-c-130h-366875/. Retrieved 2012-04-28. 
  61. ↑ "PAF to get 2 reconditioned C-130 planes". Philstar. 2012-01-12. http://www.philstar.com/Article.aspx?publicationSubCategoryId=63&articleId=767070. Retrieved 2012-04-28. 
  62. ↑ "Air Force gets newly refurbished cargo plane". Philstar. 2012-10-18. http://www.philstar.com/Article.aspx?articleId=860666&publicationSubCategoryId=63. Retrieved 2012-10-18. 
  63. ↑ "Philippine Air Force overhauls transport plane for the first time, saves P50 million too". Interaksyon.com. 2012-12-28. http://www.interaksyon.com/article/51435/philippine-air-force-overhauls-transport-plane-for-the-first-time-saves-p50-million-too. Retrieved 2012-12-28. 
  64. ↑ http://manilastandardtoday.com/2013/09/26/indon-firm-qualifies-for-chopper-supply-deal/
  65. ↑ http://www.tempo.com.ph/2012/12/paf-to-have-new-radars/#.UPipxh0W3kd
  66. ↑ PAF marks 61st anniversary today at Ebuen Air Base - Manila Bulletin (2 July 2008).
  67. ↑ "Air Force to start acquisition of fighter jets by 2011 - GMA News.tv (02 July 2008)". GMA News.tv. 2008-07-02. http://www.gmanews.tv/story/104528/Air-Force-to-start-acquisition-of-fighter-jets-by-2011. Retrieved 2012-01-16. 
  68. ↑ 68.0 68.1 "COA Report on National Gov't Agencies (NGAs) CY 2011, see: DEPARTMENT OF NATIONAL DEFENSE - Philippine Air Force Full Report". http://www.coa.gov.ph/Audit/AAR.htm. Retrieved 2007-10-08. 
  69. ↑ 69.0 69.1 69.2 69.3 69.4 69.5 69.6 "World Air Forces 2013". Flightglobal Insight. 2013. http://www.flightglobal.com/airspace/media/reports_pdf/emptys/101015/world-air-forces-2013.pdf. Retrieved 12 March 2013. 
  70. ↑ Rudy Santos (May 23, 2010). "Air Force has 18 brand new trainer jets". The Philippine Star. http://www.philstar.com/Article.aspx?articleId=577682. 
  71. ↑ "SIAI-MARCHETTI S.211 production list". SIAI Marchetti aircraft. http://www.siai-marchetti.nl/s211pro.html. Retrieved 2012-04-05. 
  72. ↑ "PAF planes crashes in Palawan Bay". http://newsinfo.inquirer.net/431879/search-and-rescue-operations-continue-for-missing-ov-10-plane. 
  73. ↑ "Air Force to receive anew used aircraft from Thailand". The Daily Tribune. 2011-01-12. http://www.tribuneonline.org/nation/20110112nat2.html. Retrieved 2011-01-12. 
  74. ↑ 74.0 74.1 "With 3rd C-130 commissioned, Air Force boosts cargo assets". Interaksyon.com. http://interaksyon.com/article/51378/with-3rd-c-130-commissioned-air-force-boosts-cargo-assets. Retrieved 2012-12-27. 
  75. ↑ Jaime Laude (January 12, 2012). "PAF to get 2 reconditioned C-130 planes". Philippine Star/Philstar Online. http://www.philstar.com/Article.aspx?publicationSubCategoryId=63&articleId=767070. Retrieved 2012-04-04. 
  76. ↑ "Aircraft 59-0259 Profile". Aircraft-Data.com. http://www.airport-data.com/aircraft/59-0259.html. Retrieved 2013-04-16. 
  77. ↑ "Aircraft 10620 Profile". Aircraft-Data.com. http://www.airport-data.com/aircraft/10620.html. Retrieved 2013-04-16. 
  78. ↑ "10669". Airliners.net. http://www.airliners.net/search/photo.search?cnsearch=10669&distinct_entry=true. Retrieved 2013-04-16. 
  79. ↑ 79.0 79.1 "Special Report : World Air Forces 2011/2012". Flight International magazine.. p. 22. http://www.flightglobal.com/airspace/media/reports_pdf/emptys/90190/world-air-forces-2011-2012.pdf. 
  80. ↑ "Directory: World Air Forces". 2008-11-11. p. 70. 
  81. ↑ "66 planes to make flyby as Air Force marks 66th anniversary". Manila Times. http://www.manilatimes.net/66-planes-to-make-flyby-as-air-force-marks-66th-anniversary/14551/. Retrieved 1 July 2013. 
  82. ↑ "AFP receives Korean trainer aircraft today". Malaya Newspaper. http://www.malaya.com.ph/mar05/metro3.htm. Retrieved 2012-04-04. 
  83. ↑ http://www.pzl.swidnik.pl/en/pzl-swidnik-completes-the-delivery-of-sokol-helicopters-to-the-philippine-air-force-from-lublin-airport/0,-ge,1
  84. ↑ http://www.zambotimes.com/archives/news/66961-All-PAF-W-3A-Sokols-operational.html
  85. ↑ Frances Mangosing (September 6, 2013). "Bidding for 21 Huey choppers fails anew, says Defense exec". Philippine Daily Inquirer / Inquirer.net. http://newsinfo.inquirer.net/482375/bidding-for-21-huey-choppers-fails-anew-says-defense-exec. Retrieved 2013-09-07. 
  86. ↑ "Article on Bell helicopters visit to PAF". US embassy - Philippines. Archived from the original on 2005-02-04. http://web.archive.org/web/20050204153755/http://usembassy.state.gov/posts/rp1/wwwhra58.html. Retrieved 2006-09-11. 
  87. ↑ "Operating Lease Case Study: 4 Brand New Bell 412EP for The Philippine Presidential Airlift Wing". ITC-Aerospace, Inc. & ITC-Leasing, Inc.. http://www.itca.co.jp/PDF/VIP_Helicopter_Finance&Leasing_rev5.pdf. Retrieved 2009-06-10. 
  88. ↑ "No survivor in presidential chopper crash, Palace says". Philippine Daily Inquirer. http://www.gmanews.tv/story/156235/No-survivor-in-presidential-chopper-crash-Palace-says. Retrieved 2009-06-10. 
  89. ↑ "15th Attack Squadron". 15thstrikewing.mil.ph. 2011-11-29. http://www.15thstrikewing.mil.ph. Retrieved 2012-01-16. 
  90. ↑ "16th Attack Squadron". 15thstrikewing.mil.ph. 1974-08-01. http://www.15thstrikewing.mil.ph/16as.htm. Retrieved 2012-01-16. 
  91. ↑ "17th Attack Squadron". 15thstrikewing.mil.ph. http://www.15thstrikewing.mil.ph/17as.htm. Retrieved 2012-01-16. 
  92. ↑ "18th Attack Squadron". 15thstrikewing.mil.ph. http://www.15thstrikewing.mil.ph/18as.htm. Retrieved 2012-01-16. 
  93. ↑ "20th Attack Squadron". 15thstrikewing.mil.ph. http://www.15thstrikewing.mil.ph/20as.htm. Retrieved 2012-01-16. 
  94. ↑ "25th Attack Squadron". 15thstrikewing.mil.ph. http://www.15thstrikewing.mil.ph/25cas.htm. Retrieved 2012-01-16. 

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