In early 1970s, order was placed
for the 48 units of SF.260s. The first 6 were then delivered in 1973, replacing
Beech T—34A Mentor with the 100th Training Wing at the Fernando Air Base.
The 15th Strike Wing on the airbase
Sangley Point received SF.260W Warrior as addition to North American T—28
Trojans. These units were used in the combat against the rebel forces in south
of Philippines. In early 1980s, surviving Warriors were disarmed and
transferred to training role with 100th Training Wing.
Philippine Air Force signed a
contract with Agusta, a contract for delivery of the 18 SF.260TP turboprops on 1991
of December, replacing SF.260M/W in training role. First SF.260TP noted in
country on 1993.
Under the "Project
Layang" PAF plans to upgrade the 18 SF.260M/W aircraft to SF.260TP
standard, by replacing Lycoming piston engine with Allison 250-B17D turbo prop
engine and newer avionics. The first upgraded SF.260 was delivered in 1996.
Philippine authorities finalized the
deal with Alenia Aermacchi for the 18 new—build SF.260F primary/basic trainers.
All 18 were delivered by the Aermacchi Italy which was locally assembled by
Aerotech Industries Philippines by April 2011.
18 older SF.260M & SF.260W models (designated as "MP" and "WP" respectively) were retrofitted with the Allison 250-B17D turboprop engine and are configured for light attack.8 older trainer SF.260TPs from the 1990s are augmented with 18 new trainer SF-260Fs (designated "FH") in 2012.
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