Philippines surprised by the arrival of 10 A-10 Thunderbolt II attack aircraft donated by the US

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Philippines surprised by the arrival of 10 A-10 Thunderbolt II attack aircraft donated by the US
Philippines Surprised by the Handover of 10 US Air Force A-10 Warthog Aircraft Newly Arrived at Philippine Air Base
In a significant development that has taken both the Philippines and international observers by surprise, the United States has handed over 10 A-10 Thunderbolt II aircraft, popularly known as "Warthogs," to the Philippine Air Force (PAF). The unexpected transfer was announced during a low-key ceremony at an undisclosed Philippine air base on December 10, 2024.
The A-10 Warthogs, renowned for their rugged design and ground-attack capabilities, were delivered as part of a strategic effort to enhance the Philippines' defensive and offensive capabilities. This move comes amid growing tensions in the South China Sea, where the Philippines faces territorial challenges.
Philippine military officials expressed both surprise and gratitude at the handover, with PAF Chief Lt. Gen. Mariano Reyes stating, “These aircraft represent a monumental boost to our capability to protect our sovereignty and respond to various threats.” The delivery was unexpected, as prior discussions about such military transfers had not been publicly disclosed.
The A-10 Warthog, a staple of the US Air Force for decades, is designed for close air support missions. It is armed with the iconic GAU-8 Avenger rotary cannon, capable of unleashing devastating firepower against ground targets. Its durability and effectiveness in combat have made it a legend among military aircraft.
This handover marks the first time the Philippines has received A-10s, a platform historically reserved for US operations or NATO allies. Analysts suggest this reflects Washington’s renewed commitment to bolstering the Philippines amid its strategic competition with China in the Indo-Pacific region.