The Philippine Air Force has revealed that it contracted Israel’s Elbit Systems to supply two long-range patrol aircraft (LRPA).
The $114-million deal was first announced by the Israeli firm in July 2023, but it did not say what “Asia-Pacific” country made the order.
According to Israel’s Ambassador to Manila Ilan Fluss, the first of two LRPAs under order will arrive in the Philippines next year.
It is expected to expand the air force’s capabilities in monitoring the archipelago amid heightened tensions with China over the South China Sea.
Fluss did not say exactly when the second aircraft would be delivered.
‘Equipped With Comprehensive Mission Suite’
In last year’s announcement, Elbit said the LRPAs will be based on the new ATR 72-600 regional aircraft.
They will also be equipped with an advanced and comprehensive mission suite that includes a mission management system, electro-optics, radars, and signals intelligence systems.
There are other special systems to be integrated into the LRPAs, but defense officials in the Philippines have not provided specific details due to potential security concerns.
“This contract extends the range of platforms and solutions we offer our customers, leveraging vast operational experience and in-house technologies and capabilities,” Elbit Systems manager Yoram Shmuely said.
“We are proud to provide advanced solutions to our customers.”
