DND allocates PHP4.9-B for acquisition of 6 close-air support aircraft

From the Philippine News Agency (Jan 3): DND allocates PHP4.9-B for acquisition of 6 close-air support aircraft

With its Rockwell OV-10 "Bronco" attack aircraft now past its prime, the Department of National Defense (DND) has allocated the sum of PHP4,968,000,000 for the acquisition of six brand-new close-air support planes for the Philippine Air Force.

Funds will be sourced from the Armed Forces of the Philippines Modernization Act Trust Fund.

Interested bidders must be able to deliver the aircraft with the corresponding initial logistics support package.

"These aircraft shall be capable of performing close-air support air operations during day and night. The guiding principles for this project shall be based on affordability and sustainability while conforming to the requirements of the Philippine Air Force in furtherance of accomplishing its mission," the DND said in its bid bulletin.

Pre-bid conference is scheduled on Jan. 11, 10 a.m. at the DND Bids and Awards Committee Conference Room, Right Wing, DND Building, Camp Aguinaldo, Quezon City.

Close-air support aircraft are used to help troops in heavy contact with enemy forces.

It is done by providing covering rocket fire to the engaged units or bombing positions of hostile units.

Currently, these missions are being conducted by the OV-10s and sometimes by specially converted SIAI-Marchetti SF-260 trainer planes.

http://www.pna.gov.ph/index.php?idn=1&sid=&nid=1&rid=952362