US turns over 4 Cessna planes to Philippines

MANILA, Philippines — The United States on Thursday turned over to the Philippines four Cessna planes as part of a P298.1-million ($5.8-million) grant under its Foreign Military Financing (FMF) program.

The Cessna 172 Skylark planes will be used by the Philippine Naval Air Wing to train new naval aviators, as well as to maintain the capabilities of current pilots and the technical expertise of aviation mechanics.

“This project displays the United States’ commitment to our Philippine partners to invest in their long-term success,” said US embassy Chargé d’Affaires ad interim Heather Variava.

“Together, the United States and the Philippines will continue to make great strides in the pursuit of a free and open maritime environment,” she added.

The turnover completed the transfer of the four Cessna planes that arrived and were reassembled on location in December 2021.

Prior to the aircraft’s delivery, the US provided pilot and mechanic training to 24 Philippine service members in Kansas City in August and September 2021.

The entire package also included the shipment of spare parts and an integral logistics support package, as well as three US-sourced Robinson R44 helicopters to be delivered later this year.

“These air assets will significantly improve the navy’s ability to prepare naval pilots for the crucial task of monitoring and safeguarding our maritime territories and domain,” said Defense Secretary Delfin Lorenzana.

“As we rejoice over this milestone, we also recognize the productive and enduring relationship between the United States and the Philippines, which is the key to the success of this acquisition program… We acknowledge our shared commitment to help preserve the peace and security in the Indo-Pacific region,” he added.

Over the past two years, the US said it has provided $110 million (P5.65 billion) in grant assistance to the Philippines through FMF, specifically to support the country’s sovereignty and military modernization efforts.