Peru has signed a contract to purchase two surplus Fokker 60 maritime patrol aircraft from the Netherlands defence ministry.
Signed on 23 February, the deal covers the transfer to the Peruvian navy of the specially modified transports, which were flown from Hato airbase in the Dutch Antilles between 2005 and 2007.
Equipped with Telephonics APS-143 surveillance radars and on-board workstations for a tactical commander, radar operator and two observers, the aircraft delivered interim coastguard cover between the retirement of the Netherlands' Lockheed P-3C Orions and the start of operations with leased Provincial Airlines Bombardier Dash 8s.
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© Netherlands defence ministry |
Also modified with additional fuel capacity, a sonobuoy launching system and observation windows, the aircraft have been in storage at Woensdrecht air base awaiting sale since they were declared surplus to requirements in 2007.
Source: Flight International