Defense Secretary Voltaire Gazmin is set to sign an Implementing Arrangement (IA) with Italian Defense Minister Giampaolo Di Paola which concerns the procurement of Defense materials and equipment from Italy.
"This arrangement will help expedite the procurement from the Italian defense industry suppliers with the help of our counterparts at the Italian Ministry of Defense," Gazmin said.
Gazmin noted that this move will help in the implementation of the AFP Modernization, a primary thrust in the Aquino administration.
This arrangement will be valid for five (5) years from signing and will be automatically extended for another five years unless there is a written notice of intention to terminate.
"Our primary goal is to explore all avenues for us to really address the needs of our Defense establishment, in line with our established systems and procedures," Gazmin said.
The Philippines already acquired eighteen basic trainer aircraft from Alenia Aermacchi, an Italian company known for its design, production and support of military training aircraft. All eighteen units were delivered as of 2011.
Some of the military hardware that are being considered for procurement under the arrangement include medium lift aircraft, coast watch system radar, multi-role combat aircraft and long range patrol aircraft.
"We constantly seek ways for the improvement of our capability to address the threats we face, including disasters and other non-conventional threats to national security,” Gazmin said.
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Monday, January 30, 2012 at 3:38pm
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