As a testament of the Administration’s unwavering dedication and support to the nation’s defenders, President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. graces the 77th founding anniversary of the Philippine Air Force (PAF) at Basa Air Base in Floridablanca, Pampanga on July 1, 2024.

With the theme, ‘Accelerating Above and Beyond: 77 Years of PAF Excellence in Protecting the Nation and Securing the Skies’, the PAF highlights its capabilities as protector of the country’s airspace and Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ) – aimed at enhancing its strength, credibility and sustainability in fulfilling its mandate.

During the program, the Commander-in-Chief witnesses a live capability demonstration showcasing the PAF’s capabilities to retake territory seized by hostile forces; detect, track and neutralize enemy aircraft through air strikes; intelligence reconnaissance and surveillance of the area using unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs); and troop insertion via ‘Black Hawk’ helicopters using fast-rope insertion and extraction systems.

The PAF also displays the capabilities of its newly acquired Ground-Based Air Defense System (GBADS), also known as the Israeli-made Spyder mobile air defense system, which enables the Air Force to protect the country’s airspace from hostile aircraft.

Apart from these, President Marcos Jr. leads the presentation of plaques and streamers to 17 awardees, recognizing their exemplary achievements that contributed to the PAF’s success in 2024.

Prior to today’s culmination program, the PAF conducted various pre-anniversary activities such as mall exhibits, tree planting, wellness fairs and other events.

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