Despite the postponement of his visit to the Philippines due to the massive earthquake that
flattened Kyushu last April, Japanese Defense Minister Gen Nakatani reaffirmed
the lease and transfer of five TC-90 training aircraft to the Philippines
This was disclosed by Defense public affairs office chief
Arsenio Andolong in a statement Tuesday.
"In a telephone call at around 4:00 p.m. on Monday, May
2, 2016, Japan ’s Defense
Minister Gen Nakatani, expressed appreciation to Philippine Defense Secretary
Voltaire T. Gazmin for understanding the cancellation of his planned visit to
the Philippines Kyushu ," he added.
During the phone call, both defense chiefs agreed that
bilateral cooperation is indispensable and discussed how to enhance relations
by strengthening communications, deepening exchanges and educational
opportunities.
In the same vein, Nakatani reaffirmed the transfer of Japan
Maritime Self-Defense Force TC-90 aircraft which will be useful for
humanitarian assistance and disaster relief and maritime security.
"Further to this, will be the training that will be
provided for the end-users," Andolong said.
Delivery of the TC-90s are expected to be completed this
year
He added that both leaders are looking forward to meeting
each other in a rescheduling of the visit.
Both parties reiterated their commitment to work together,
with Nakatani expressing that the two countries’ bilateral relationship is
crucial for peace, stability and prosperity, not only of the two countries, but
of the region as well.
The TC-90, which is part of the Beechcraft King Air aircraft
family, was offered by Japan shortly after the Agreement Concerning the
Transfer of Defense Equipment and Technology was finalized last Feb. 29.
The TC-90's patrol range is double of small Philippine
aircraft which only has a maximum range of 300 kilometers.
http://www.pna.gov.ph/index.php?idn=1&sid=&nid=1&rid=881863
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