According to MaxDefense Philippines military sources, the DND has made a request for the transfer of the US Air Force's three A-29B Super Tucano light attack aircraft that are eyed for retirement by next year.
These were built by Sierra Nevada in the US and were used during evaluation for the US Air Force's requirement for a light attack aircraft. They are to be retired as the A-29B lost out, together with the Beechcraft AT-6C Wolverine, to the AT-802U Sky Warden.
Since the Philippines already uses the A-29B Super Tucano, it won't have difficulty accepting additional aircraft, and could help boost the number of aircraft in time for the early retirement of the OV-10 Bronco fleet.
According to sources, it appears that the US agrees to transfer these A-29B Super Tucanos to the Philippines, although no confirmation has been made if its a sale or a grant.
(Da-Real)