The Philippine Air Force (PAF) has a diverse fleet of aircraft, each serving a unique role in the defense of the country. One such aircraft is the SIAI-Marchetti AS-211, locally referred to as the "Warrior".
The AS-211 Warrior
The AS-211 is a jet trainer aircraft that was first delivered to the PAF in the late 1980s and early 1990s. These aircraft served in a training role with a secondary attack function during the 1990s and into the 2000s. The AS-211 can carry a crew of two, has a cruise speed of around 667 km/h (414 mph, 360 knots), and can carry guns, rockets, and unguided bombs for close-air support missions.
The Warrior’s Evolution
In 1997, SIAI-Marchetti was acquired by Aermacchi, who continued to work with the PAF in relation to its AS-211 fleet. With the final retirement of the F-5 fleet in October 2005, the AS-211s filled their role in the external Philippine air defense mission. To help the AS-211 fit the role, a project was initiated to reclaim the optical sighting systems and heads up displays from retired F-5s.
Project Falcon
Project Falcon officially began in October 2005 with the retirement of the F-5 fleet. The first step of the project was to install the F-5 optical sights and harmonize the system with the AS-211. The sight was evaluated using live and inert ammunition to validate computations. The AS-211 had proven to be a formidable weapon system.
The Warrior Today
Today, the AS-211 continues to serve the PAF in various capacities. In February 2020, the PAF deployed three AS-211 Aircraft for Maritime Air Patrol (MARPAT) in the Western Command’s Joint Area of Operation.
Conclusion
The AS-211 Warrior of the Philippine Air Force is a testament to the adaptability and resilience of military technology. Despite its age, the AS-211 continues to serve the PAF in various roles, from training new pilots to patrolling the country’s maritime borders. Its story is a reminder of the importance of continuous innovation and adaptation in the field of defense.