The State Department has made a determination approving a possible Foreign Military Sale to the Philippines for C-130T aircraft and associated equipment, parts, training and logistical support for an estimated cost of $61 million. The Defense Security Cooperation Agency delivered the required certification notifying Congress of this possible sale on July 23, 2014.

The Government of the Philippines has requested a possible sale from Department of Defense stock of two (2) C-130T Aircraft, and 10 T56-16 engines (8 installed and 2 spares). Also included are logistical sustainment and support for a period of three years, modification equipment and labor costs, spare and repair parts, support equipment, publications and technical documentation, aircraft ferry support, personnel training and training equipment, U.S. Government and contractor logistics and technical support services, and other related elements of logistics and program support. The estimated cost is $61 million.

This proposed sale would contribute to U.S. security and foreign policy goals by building the Philippines’ maritime domain security capacity and deepening our overall strategic partnership with the Philippines.

The Government of the Philippines desires these additional C-130s to bolster its lift capabilities, which are essential for providing humanitarian assistance and disaster relief. The Philippines will use this increased lift capability to improve the mobility and resupply of its forces and for the provision of humanitarian assistance in the Philippines and the wider region, thereby reducing the potential level of U.S. assistance requested/needed for these purposes. The Philippine Air Force (PAF) already has C-130 aircraft in its inventory and will have no difficulty absorbing these additional aircraft.

The proposed sale of these aircraft and support will not alter the basic military balance in the region.

Contractor requirements are still being researched, and will be fulfilled through open competition. Should USG representatives or contractor support in-country be required in support of the case, length of time in-country will be minimized to the maximum practical extent. There are no known offset agreements proposed in connection with this potential sale.

There will be no adverse impact on U.S. defense readiness as a result of this proposed sale.

This notice of a potential sale is required by law and does not mean the sale has been concluded.

DSCA press release