Airbus in Talks with PH Military to Modernize Fleet

European aircraft manufacturer Airbus Group Inc. is in ongoing discussions with the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) to support the country’s air defense modernization under the “Horizon 3” initiative.

During a press briefing in Pasay City, Jussi Hoikka, Airbus’ chief representative to the Philippines, said the company is ready to assist the AFP in acquiring advanced military assets, including aircraft and radar systems. Horizon 3, approved by President Ferdinand Marcos Jr., focuses on enhancing the Philippines’ archipelagic defense capabilities.

While details of the talks remain confidential, Hoikka highlighted that Airbus completed the delivery of seven C295 aircraft to the Philippine Air Force in 2021. He emphasized the versatility of the C295 for military and humanitarian missions, capable of carrying up to nine tonnes of payload or 71 troops.

Airbus is also offering its A330 Multi-Role Tanker Transport (MRTT), which has the highest fuel capacity of any tanker in production, and the A400M, a heavy cargo transport that supports air-to-air refueling and humanitarian missions.

In addition, Airbus is proposing C4ISR systems for air surveillance and defense, and its FlexRotor Unmanned Aerial System (UAS) for intelligence and reconnaissance missions, particularly suited for the Philippine Navy and Coast Guard.

“Airbus stands ready to support the AFP with proven solutions as the Philippines strengthens its defense capabilities under Horizon 3,” Hoikka said, noting the growing defense budget for modernization efforts.