PAF Seeks Purchase of 'Flying Radars'

The Philippine Air Force (PAF) is looking at acquiring airborne early warning and control system (AEWACS) platforms that it hopes will boost its long-range capabilities to detect hostile aircraft, ships, vehicles, missiles, or any incoming projectiles.

- By MICHAEL PUNONGBAYAN

"The PAF has proposed to higher offices the possible acquisition of the AEWACS and is part of our Re-Horizon proposed capability list," PAF spokesperson Col. Ma. Consuelo Castillo said.

"The AEWACS provides airborne surveillance, command, control, and communications capabilities, enabling a comprehensive air battle management system," she said.

Castillo did not provide further information, but she noted that the PAF had already submitted its request and is deferring to the Department of National Defense for guidance.

Defense Secretary Gilbert Teodoro Jr. earlier talked about his plan for the acquisition of multi-role fighters (MRF) side by side with the acquisition of airborne warning and control system (AWACS) as well as aerial tankers that can be used for mid-air refueling.

"It is not only the purchase of the MRF per se which we need to deal with but also to make the MRFS operational as a force package, meaning to say we need the AWACS capability," Teodoro said.

"A lot of countries have experienced the fact that they are realizing that they need AWACS," he added.

The Armed Forces of the Philippines is eyeing more MRFS, which are more powerful than the FA-50 fighters already in PAF's squadron.

Air Force chief Lt. Gen.