Philippine Army Expands to Conduct Aerial Patrols Nationwide
The Philippine Army has broadened its defense capabilities by adding aerial patrols within the country’s airspace. This significant development allows the Army to conduct quick, independent missions across the archipelago, enhancing national security and response times.
On June 11, the Army’s Aviation Regiment, also known as “Hiraya,” successfully performed a maritime air patrol over key areas including the territorial seas of Aurora, Isabela, Cagayan, and the Philippine Rise along the eastern seaboard. The operation used a twin-engined Cessna 421B aircraft, marking a milestone for the Armed Forces of the Philippines.
This mission came just a day before the nation’s 127th Independence Day, highlighting the Army’s growing role in airspace defense. The Aviation Regiment emphasized that this maritime air patrol aligns with the Army’s Land Defense Concept, which supports the Department of National Defense’s Comprehensive Archipelagic Defense Concept (CADC).
Strengthening National Defense Across Islands
The Land Defense Concept is crucial for protecting the Philippines as a multi-island nation. It integrates modern technology and rapid deployment, especially in strategic locations like the West Philippine Sea. The Aviation Regiment noted the mission also demonstrated the Army’s ability to collaborate seamlessly with both the Philippine Air Force and Navy.
This newfound aerial capability means the Army no longer has to rely solely on other branches for transport during urgent missions. Instead, they can swiftly mobilize forces wherever needed, improving operational agility and response.
Army’s Readiness to Defend the West Philippine Sea
Lt. Gen. Roy Galido, the Philippine Army commanding general, stressed the importance of this capability. He said the Army stands ready to support and reinforce naval forces in contested regions like the West Philippine Sea. “I’m just waiting for them to call in the Army,” Galido said. “The Army is ready.”
He added, “Based on our Katihan exercises, the Army right now is highly mobile and very agile. We can lift a 1,000-strong or 500-man unit anytime. They know this. We lift it any time. And it can be brought to any place in our country.”
Showcasing Strength During Independence Day
Besides the aerial patrol, the Army also showcased its diverse capabilities during the Independence Day celebrations at Luneta Park in Manila. The event featured a static and kinetic display highlighting specialized units such as the Army Support Command, First Scout Ranger Regiment, Special Forces Regiment (Airborne), Signal Regiment, Combat Engineer Regiment, Civil-Military Operations Regiment, and the K-9 Battalion of the Intelligence Regiment.
Reserve units from the Reserve Command also displayed their equipment and roles. Simultaneously, flag-raising ceremonies were conducted at Fort Bonifacio in Taguig City and other Army camps nationwide on June 12 to honor the nation’s freedom.
The Philippine Army’s expansion into aerial patrols marks a transformative step in its mission to safeguard the country’s vast territories and strengthen multi-branch cooperation.
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