Indonesia president Widodo offers CN-235 ASW aircraft to Philippine Navy.

According to information published by Indonesian government on January 10, 2024, during a meeting with Philippine Defense Minister Gilberto Eduardo Gerardo C. Teodoro Jr., Indonesian President Joko Widodo advocated for the Philippines to consider acquiring anti-submarine warfare aircraft from Indonesia. This proposal is seen as a strategic move to deepen defense cooperation between the two nations.
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Indonesian Navy's CN235-220 maritime patrol aircraft at LIMA 2015. (Picture source: Navy Recognition)

President Jokowi highlighted the longstanding defense relations between the two countries and suggested that the acquisition of Indonesian-made anti-submarine aircraft would be beneficial for the Philippine Navy. This proposal underscores Indonesia's role as a significant defense partner in the region and its capabilities in defense manufacturing.

The meeting also touched upon other defense procurement areas, including shipbuilding, reflecting the evolving defense partnership between Indonesia and the Philippines. President Jokowi's push for the Philippines to consider these aircraft aligns with broader regional security interests.

About the aircraft

The CASA/IPTN CN-235 is a medium-range twin-engined transport aircraft that was jointly developed by CASA of Spain and Indonesian manufacturer IPTN. It is operated as both a regional airliner and military transport; its primary military roles include air transport and aerial surveillance.

Development of the CN-235 formally commenced in 1980 following the formation of the Airtech International joint venture on 17 October 1979. Its existence was publicly unveiled at the 1981 Paris Airshow.

On 11 November 1983, the prototype CN-235 conducted its maiden flight; the first production aircraft followed on 19 August 1986. On 1 March 1988, the aircraft was put into regular service.

Early on, the production of each aircraft was divided, 65% being performed by IPTN while the remainder was performed by CASA. The vast majority of CN-235s have been produced for military customers, several airlines have opted to buy limited numbers for regional services as well. In addition to the standard aircraft, specialised CN-235s have been configured into armed gunships and maritime patrol aircraft.