With an investment of €8 million, a project designed to improve the aircraft capabilities of the Armed Forces of Malta was finalized. This is another investment after a year ago €53 million was invested for a P71 vessel.
The AFM has three KingAir type aircraft and the renewal project in the systems of one of them, also partially financed by European Union funds, aims for the aircraft to have better tools to perform wider functions during flights on the sea. The modernization of the plane’s electronic systems also led to a significant increase in communication capabilities.
During the inauguration of the project, the Minister for the Interior, Security and Work Byron Camilleri said that the strengthening of the air branch of the Armed Forces is part of an investment process that the Government has done during the last years. This latest investment will strengthen the Government’s efforts in the fight against human trafficking, search and rescue among others.
Minister Camilleri also referred to the Government’s work to improve the conditions and wages of the members of the Armed Forces including a collective agreement for all workers, the strengthening of the service pension and also that for the first time an additional cost of living bonus equivalent to the full cost of living increase will be given.
Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces, Brigadier Clinton O’Neill said that the project was driven by the obligation that the armed forces have as the national authority with significant operational maritime capabilities. He said that with the renewal of the KingAir system, FAM is continuing to carry out important work.
Photos: DOI, MHSE
