Decommissioning of the OV-10 Bronco and AH-1S Cobra in the Philippine Air Force
30 Desember 2024
On 28 December 2024, the 15th Strike Wing conducted the Decommissioning Ceremony of the AH-1S Cobra and OV-10 Bronco headed by the Wing Commander, BGEN JULIANO C LLARENAS PAF, at the Four-Bay Hangar, Major Danilo Atienza Air Base, Sangley Point, Cavite City. Graced by MGEN ARAUS ROBERT F MUSICO PAF, Commander of the Air Combat Command, MGEN DENNIS G ESTRELLA PAF, Commander of the Air Logistics Command, as well as active and retired pilots and crew of both aircraft - the event marked the end of an era for these venerable aircraft that have served the Philippine Air Force with distinction.
The AH-1S Cobra, the Philippine Air Force's first dedicated attack helicopter, arrived on 26 November 2019, donated by King Abdullah II of Jordan to support internal security and counter-terrorism efforts. Before its arrival, pilots and maintenance crew were trained both locally and abroad. The Cobra played a vital role in various combat missions, providing Close Air Support (CAS) during the “Oplan Polaris II” operation in Baggao, Cagayan, and participating in Battlefield Air Interdictions during the “Oppord Kilo Uno” operation in Pantabangan, Nueva Vizcaya. The Cobra also carried out additional CAS missions in the regions of Abra and Cagayan, aiding ground troops in counter-insurgency operations. From its first mission to its final flight, the Cobra symbolized strength and resilience, playing a crucial part in defending peace and security in the Philippines.
Meanwhile, the North American Rockwell OV-10 Bronco, a twin-turboprop, multi-role aircraft, served the Philippine Air Force for nearly four decades, having been introduced on 12 November 1991. The Bronco played a key role in CAS, counterinsurgency operations, and campaigns against insurgent groups like the NPA, MILF, and Abu Sayyaf. The OV-10 was instrumental in pursuing the objective of Operation Thunder Bolt in 2000, helping dismantle the MILF's stronghold, and in subsequent campaigns, including the 2001 Basilan mission and the 2006 Sulu Archipelago offensive. One of its very significant contributions came during the 2017 Battle of Marawi, where it carried out 88 surface strikes, providing vital close air support to ground troops. The OV-10 Bronco’s 33 years of service, adaptability, and precision made it a symbol of resilience and dedication, remembered for its critical role in defending our nation.
The service of the Bronco and Cobra is marked by countless missions and operations, this firmly stands as a testament to the dedication and bravery of the pilots and crew who flew and maintained them. As they end their era in the skies of the Philippine Air Force, we positively move forward, building on the lessons learned and the successes achieved during the distinguished careers of these reputable platforms. They will remain symbols of resilience, adaptability, and unwavering commitment to the nation’s defense.
(PAF)
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