#Fast-attack interdiction craft-missiles (FAIC-Ms)

[carlocarrasco]

I Love Israel: Two more Israeli-made missile boats received by the Philippines

As some of you are already aware, I fully stand with Israel which is very connected with my uncompromising faith in the Lord. I keep on praying to Him for Israel to overwhelm its enemies, rescue the hostages and recover from the effects of the October 7, 2023 terrorist attacks committed by the Palestinian terrorist group Hamas which is sponsored by terrorist state Iran. I can assure all of you…

[rhk111sblog]

Just a look at the Weapons onboard the BRP Herminigildo Yurong (PG-906), a Nestor Acero-class Fast Attack Interdiction Craft – Missile (FAIC-M) of the Philippine Navy (PN) during a visit there by important Civilian and Military Personnel.

These Weapons include the Mk 30-c Main Gun with a 30 mm caliber Cannon, two .50 caliber Mini-Typhoons with .50 caliber Heavy Machine Guns (HMG) and the Typhoon MLS-NLOS Missile System. The BRP Yurong is one of the four FAIC-Ms equipped with Missiles, and the FAIC-M Vessel is based on the Shaldag Mark V Design of the Defense Manufacturer, “Israel Shipyards Limited (Ltd)”.

The Ship is one of the most advanced and one of the newest Vessels of the PN, having been commissioned into Service only this May 2024.

Here is the Link to the Post of the BRP Yurong Facebook Page containing the original Pictures: https://web.facebook.com/permalink.php?story_fbid=pfbid0oCuAPCWnmJcEVmm6n2QrCTnpNG1PiUFHeu7rosyiwBy72g42CcM5vPa4gJXZcvGWl&id=61562280296210

SOURCE: BRP Herminigildo Yurong PG906 Facebook Page Post, 09/13/24 – 1259H {Archived Link}

[phgq]

NTP for fast attack missile boats out mid-February

#PHnews: NTP for fast attack missile boats out mid-February

MANILA – The Notice to Proceed (NTP) for the Philippine Navy (PN)'s Fast Attack Interdiction Craft-Missile (FAIC-M) is expected to be out by mid-February.

This was confirmed by PN public affairs office chief, Commander Benjo Negranza, when asked by the Philippine News Agency (PNA) on updates for the project Monday.

"The contract for the project is being finalized for subsequent signing and issuance of NTP estimated to be on mid-February this year," he said.

The FAIC-M project (also known as the Shaldag Mark 4) was already issued a Notice of Award (NOA) by the Department of National Defense (DND) last January 4.

The NOA was signed by DND Secretary Delfin Lorenzana as head of the procuring entity.

The project, which consists of two lots, is worth around PHP10 billion.

Lot 1 consists of acquisition of the naval platforms and upgrade of the Cavite Naval Shipyard while Lot 2 is focused on the acquisition of the weapons system of these FAIC-Ms which include remotely-controlled gun and missile systems.

"Another milestone was achieved just recently which includes the successful negotiations for the Lot 1 (Platforms) & Lot 2 (Combat Systems and Missiles) of the Fast Attack Interdiction Craft-Missile (FAIC-M) Acquisition Project. This resulted in the provisions for an additional one unit with one set of remote combat weapon systems (on top of the programmed 8 units FAIC-M) for the PN and an upgrade of the Naval Ship Yard - without additional cost to the government. Hence, the PN expects to obtain a total of nine missile-equipped FAICs in the coming years," PN chief Vice Admiral Giovanni Carlo Bacordo earlier said.

The FAIC-Ms, the Navy chief was referring to, is expected to replace the force of patrol killer medium (PKM) or medium-sized patrol craft, with deliveries expected to start in 2022.

Four of the FAIC-Ms will be armed with non-line-of-sight (NLOS) missiles with pinpoint accuracy and a range of 25 kilometers while the other four will be armed with machine guns and light automatic cannons.

With the FAIC-Ms, the PN shall have the capability to defend the key sea lines of communications (SLOCs), such as Mindoro, Balabac, Sibutu, and Basilan Straits against conventional threats.

While operating in restricted waters, the FAIC-Ms can interdict surface threats and launch NLOS missiles safely using the surrounding littoral areas as maneuver space and cover. (PNA) 

   ***

References:

* Philippine News Agency. "NTP for fast attack missile boats out mid-February." Philippine News Agency. https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1129163 (accessed February 01, 2021 at 11:28PM UTC+14).

* Philippine News Agency. "NTP for fast attack missile boats out mid-February." Archive Today. https://archive.ph/?run=1&url=https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1129163 (archived).

[carlocarrasco]

I Love Israel: Philippine Navy plans to acquire more Israel-made missile boats

I Love Israel: Philippine Navy plans to acquire more Israel-made missile boats

The Philippine Navy (PN) is looking towards Israel with regards to their plan to acquire several more missile boats, according to a news article by the Philippine News Agency (PNA). To be specific, they are looking for Israel-produced Shaldag Mark V missile boats. Thank note that Philippine Navy recently received two new missile boats made in Israel. To put things in perspective, posted below is…

[carlocarrasco]

I Love Israel: Missile boats from Israel will boost Philippine Navy’s defense of littoral zones

I Love Israel: Missile boats from Israel will boost Philippine Navy’s defense of littoral zones

The Philippines’ defense of its littoral zones will be strengthened thanks to the newly acquired fast-attack interdiction craft-missiles (FAIC-Ms) from Israel for the Philippine Navy’s use, according to an announcement published through the Philippine News Agency (PNA). Be aware that this is not the first time that military hardware made by Israelites will be used to enhance the defense…

[carlocarrasco]

I Love Israel: Israel to engage more with the Philippines on agriculture, cyber security and other matters

I Love Israel: Israel to engage more with the Philippines on agriculture, cyber security and other matters

Following the news about the Israel-produced fast-attack interdiction craft-missiles (FAIC-Ms) boosting the Philippine Navy’s ability to protect the nation’s littoral zones, Israel announced that it wants to cooperate more with the Philippines specifically on agriculture, cyber security and more, according to an article published by the Philippine News Agency (PNA). To put things in perspective,…

[phgq]

PH Navy upgrades make waves amid pandemic

#PHnews: PH Navy upgrades make waves amid pandemic

MANILA – Despite the coronavirus disease 2019 (Covid-19) pandemic bringing almost everything to a standstill this year, efforts to modernize the Philippine Navy (PN) remain on track as exemplified by the delivery and commissioning of its first-ever guided-missile frigate BRP Jose Rizal (FF-150) early this year.

"Despite the Covid-19 pandemic greatly affecting the implementation of the AFP’s Modernization Program this year, the PN has remained in high spirits in terms of developing its capabilities. For one, the Navy has seen the arrival of its first modern frigate, BRP Jose Rizal in May of this year," Navy chief Vice Adm. Giovanni Carlo Bacordo told the Philippine News Agency (PNA) in a recent interview.

The ship arrived in Subic Bay, Zambales last May 23 after leaving Hyundai Heavy Industries (HHI) shipyard in Ulsan, South Korea last May 18.

The BRP Jose Rizal is capable of conducting anti-air warfare, anti-surface warfare, anti-submarine warfare, and electronic warfare operations and was officially commissioned last July 10.

A few weeks after its commissioning, the ship and its crew were deployed to the biennial "Rim of the Pacific" (RIMPAC) exercises off Hawaii which took place from Aug. 17 to 31.

The ship left Subic Bay on July 29 and arrived in Hawaii on Aug. 15.

Bacordo said this deployment is considered the "maiden deployment" of the brand-new missile frigate and called the participation of the ship and its contingent to the RIMPAC as a "sterling one".

Also, no defects were reported aboard BRP Jose Rizal during the two-week maneuvers.

"No reported safety and security incidents. No weapons, communications, electronic(s) and information (system) hull, machinery, and electrical sys(tem) derangements (were) reported," Bacordo earlier said.

He added that BRP Jose Rizal’s participation in RIMPAC 2020 highlights the competence and capability of the ship and its crew to undertake various maritime operational scenarios, may it be multinational operations with other partner nations, maritime security of commercial shipping, or operating on its own or with its onboard helicopter against surface and sub-surface adversaries.

"FF-150 took advantage of RIMPAC 2020 to train as a team, put the ship at pace with possible real-world scenarios, and the crew to gel during this time," he said.

Bacordo said the ship's participation was also recognized by its US counterparts, specifically US Navy Third Fleet commander Vice Admiral Scott D. Conn, who earlier said they are happy to have the Philippines participating in RIMPAC with BRP Jose Rizal.

PN public affairs office chief Lt. Commander Maria Christina Roxas said the ship's crew would use the two-week RIMPAC maneuvers as a "shakedown cruise" to test the performance and seaworthiness of the brand-new missile frigate.

A "shakedown cruise" allows the crew to familiarize themselves with a new vessel and ensure that all of the ship's systems are functional.

"Other than that, it is a chance for the officers and crew to work as a team since most of the time they are conducting individual training. Through this exercise, they will be able to conduct and function as a whole team of FF-150," she said.

The RIMPAC, being a multi-dimensional training exercise, gave a chance for the BRP Jose Rizal "to level up its engagement in this four-dimension warfare," Roxas added.

BRP Jose Rizal was launched at the Hyundai Heavy Industries (HHI) shipyard in Ulsan, South Korea on May 23, 2019. Its sister ship, the BRP Antonio Luna (FF-151), was launched in the same facility on November 8 last year.

The contract for the two ships was PHP16 billion and an additional PHP2 billion for weapon systems and munitions.

Aside from the arrival and commissioning of the PN's first guided-missile frigate, another highlight for the Navy this year is the partial delivery of the 10 high-speed and fast boats contracted for the Naval Special Operations Command (Navsocom).

"In addition, in August of this year, the Navsocom also saw the partial delivery of seven out of 10 high-speed and fast boats acquired under the modernization program and meant to boost special operations capability. These are currently undergoing sea trial and technical inspection procedures," Bacordo said.

ScanEagle drones

Also of great importance for the PN was the acquisition of the ScanEagle unmanned aerial system with the assistance of the United States,

"Further, the PN has received through (Foreign Military Sales) FMS the donation of ScanEagle unmanned aerial system (UAS), composing of eight air vehicles, four ground-control stations, and other components that can greatly contribute to the ISR (intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance) operations and RDANA (rapid damage assessment), (support to humanitarian assistance disaster relief (HADR)," Bacordo said.

Also included in this package are training for the operators and maintainers (10 pilot and six maintainers, four image and video data processors) to ensure optimized utilization," he added.

During the formal turnover of the ScanEagle UAS last Nov. 25 at Naval Base Heracleo Alano, Sangley Point, Cavite, Bacordo said the arrival of this platform will allow the PN to greatly expand the coverage of its internal security, territorial defense, HADR, and maritime law enforcement missions.

This is the first fixed UAS to be operated by the PN. The ScanEagle and its associated equipment, worth USD14.79 million, were acquired through the Maritime Security Initiative Program of the United States.

It was requested by the PN in 2017 and was formalized in February 2019 after a series of dialogues with the Philippines’ Joint US Military Assistance Group (JUSMAG-Phil).

"Another milestone was achieved just recently which includes the successful negotiations for the Lot 1 (Platforms) & Lot 2 (Combat Systems and Missiles) of the Fast Attack Interdiction Craft-Missile (FAIC-M) Acquisition Project. This resulted in the provisions for an additional one unit with one set of remote combat weapon systems (on top of the programmed eight units FAIC-M) for the PN and an upgrade of the Naval Ship Yard -- without additional cost to the government. Hence, the PN expects to obtain a total of nine missile-equipped FAICs in the coming years," Bacordo said.

The FAIC-Ms, Bacordo said, are expected to replace the force of patrol killer medium (PKM) or medium-sized patrol craft, with deliveries expected to start in 2022.

The project, approved for inclusion in the Horizon 2 project list of the Revised Armed Forces of the Philippines Modernization Program, has a budget of PHP10 billion and is for multi-year contracting.

Four of the FAIC-Ms will be armed with non-line-of-sight (NLOS) missiles with pinpoint accuracy and a range of 25 kilometers while the other four will be armed with machine guns and light automatic cannons.

With the FAIC-Ms, the PN shall have the capability to defend the key sea lines of communications (SLOCs), such as Mindoro, Balabac, Sibutu, and Basilan Straits against conventional threats.

While operating in restricted waters, the FAIC-Ms can interdict surface threats and launch NLOS missiles safely using the surrounding littoral areas as maneuver space and cover.

2nd missile frigate soon

Another important event for the PN in 2020 is the successful conclusion of the five-day sea acceptance trials (SAT) of BRP Antonio Luna, the second missile frigate ordered by the Navy from HHI.

The SAT started on Dec. 14 and ended on Dec. 18.

"As the second installment of the Frigate Acquisition Project, the FF-151 or BRP Antonio Luna concluded its five-day Sea Acceptance Trials recently on 18 December 2020 in South Korea. As a result, the PN is expecting to welcome this modern vessel in February 2021 and project delivery remains to be right on schedule," Bacordo said.

In a media statement on Dec. 18, Rear Admiral Alberto Carlos, head of the PN's Technical Inspection and Acceptance Committee (TIAC), declared that FF-151 is compliant with the agreed technical specifications after personally witnessing the warship's performance during the sea trials.

"FF-151 is 95 percent complete at this time. All machinery and combat systems were subjected to test procedures as stipulated in the contract and were observed to be working properly. More importantly, I'm happy to announce that FF-151 passed the prescribed standards and procedures," he said.

Carlos said upon completion of the SAT, BRP Antonio Luna's completion rating is almost 100 percent. This, he added, will pave way for the frigate re-docking and final outfitting before delivery early next year.

Also, Bacordo said parallel with equipment acquisition is the command’s effort on base support and sustainment development that would address the facility requirements for the upcoming deliverables of the PN modernization program like the missile storage facilities and repair of piers and other major infrastructure, among others.

"Moreover, the non-material aspects that are crucial to the overall effort of the PN modernization are considered through the Capability Synchronization Matrix. As a crucial management tool, the matrix is seen to identify, program, integrate, implement, and monitor the overall capability development of the PN," he added.

This also includes alignment of materiel and non-materiel capabilities covering training activities that would enhance personnel competency for our personnel, doctrines development, force restructuring and organizational development, and human resource development.

Also, the PN chief is pleased to announce that the Navy is continuing its efforts in supporting the local defense industry research and development under the Self-Reliant Defense Posture program.

"In 2020, in collaboration with the Department of Science and Technology, we have seen the active implementation and near completion of 'Project Buhawi' or (building a universal mount for heavy-barrel automated weapon integration for naval vessels)," Bacordo said. (PNA)

***

References:

* Philippine News Agency. "PH Navy upgrades make waves amid pandemic." Philippine News Agency. https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1125433 (accessed December 28, 2020 at 08:00PM UTC+14).

* Philippine News Agency. "PH Navy upgrades make waves amid pandemic." Archive Today. https://archive.ph/?run=1&url=https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1125433 (archived).

[phgq]

Delivery of 1st missile boat pushed to early 2022: Navy

#PHnews: Delivery of 1st missile boat pushed to early 2022: Navy

MANILA – The Philippine Navy (PN) on Monday said the delivery of the first of the eight units of fast-attack interdictor craft-missile (FAIC-M) set for December was delayed to early 2022 due to the coronavirus disease 2019 (Covid-19) pandemic.

"It (Covid-19) has delayed some of the delivery of our platforms. I could give you an example, the first of our FAIC-M, if not for the Covid-19, should have been delivered this December. But because of this Covid-19, the first of the eight platforms is expected to be delivered already by the first quarter of 2022," said Navy chief, Vice Admiral Giovanni Carlo Bacordo, in a virtual presser when asked on how the pandemic has affected the PN's modernization.

The PN's FAIC-M project is expected to replace the force of patrol killer medium (PKM) or medium-sized patrol craft.

The project, approved for inclusion in the Horizon 2 project list of the Revised Armed Forces of the Philippines Modernization Program, has a budget of PHP10 billion and is for Multi-Year Contracting.

Four of the FAIC-Ms will be armed with non-line-of-sight (NLOS) missiles with pinpoint accuracy and a range of 25 kilometers while the other four will be armed with machine guns and light automatic cannons.

With the FAIC-Ms, the PN shall have the capability to defend the key sea lines of communications (SLOCs), such as Mindoro, Balabac, Sibutu, and Basilan Straits against conventional threats.

While operating in restricted waters, the FAIC-Ms can interdict surface threats and launch NLOS missiles safely using the surrounding littoral areas as maneuver space and cover.

Meanwhile, PN Offshore Combat Force chief Commodore Karl Decapia confirmed that the prospective BRP Antonio Luna (FF-151) is expected to be delivered to the Philippines in late January or early February 2021.

In the same briefing, he said the ship technically contains the same features that the BRP Jose Rizal has.

"It's exactly the same, all sensors, communications, the technical capability of (FF)150 and (FF)151 is exactly the same. in fact, they are twin sisters," he added.

BRP Antonio Luna was launched on November 8, 2019 at the Ulsan facility of South Korean shipbuilder Hyundai Heavy Industries. Its keel-laying on May 23, 2019, coincided with the launch of BRP Jose Rizal.

The contract for the BRP Jose Rizal and the BRP Antonio Luna was placed at PHP16 billion with another PHP2 billion for weapon systems and munitions.

The BRP Antonio Luna had its first sea acceptance trials last September 24 to 29 which yielded "satisfactory" results, the PN earlier said. (PNA)

***

References:

* Philippine News Agency. "Delivery of 1st missile boat pushed to early 2022: Navy." Philippine News Agency. https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1118953 (accessed October 19, 2020 at 09:35PM UTC+14).

* Philippine News Agency. "Delivery of 1st missile boat pushed to early 2022: Navy." Archive Today. https://archive.ph/?run=1&url=https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1118953 (archived).

[phgq]

PH Navy upgrades to improve 'green-water' capabilities

#PHnews: PH Navy upgrades to improve 'green-water' capabilities

MANILA – The improvements in the Philippine Navy (PN) aim to expand its capabilities so that it can operate well beyond the country's shores, its chief said on Friday.

PN chief Vice Admiral Giovanni Carlo Bacordo made this response when asked if the acquisition of the Jose Rizal-class multi-role frigates, the AgustaWestland AW-159 anti-submarine helicopters, and the Tarlac-class landing docks platforms are meant to increase the Navy's ability to operate at long range.

"What the PN is developing are capabilities to protect our maritime interests and sovereign rights up to the EEZ (exclusive economic zones). This is attuned to the defensive character of the AFP (Armed Forces of the Philippines) as enshrined in the Constitution. In other words, our end in view is to develop an expanded green-water Navy capable of projecting power in our aspired operational area within our maritime zones," Bacordo said in a message to the Philippine News Agency.

A green-water Navy is defined as a naval force capable of operating within its littoral zones and is capable of conducting operations in the open oceans of its surrounding regions.

"The acquisition of the JRCF (Jose Rizal-class frigates) TCLDs (Tarlac-class landing docks) and AW-159s are geared towards that direction," Bacordo added.

When asked what other acquisitions are aimed at further beefing up the PN's green-water capabilities, the PN chief said these include the fast-attack interdictor craft-missile (FAIC-Ms), offshore patrol vessels (OPVs), landing docks (LDs), corvettes, and various monitoring and area denial platforms.

"Regarding our upcoming acquisitions, on the horizon are the FAIC-Ms (fast interdiction craft missile), OPVs (offshore patrol vessel), LDs (landing docks), and corvettes. In the pipeline are capabilities for mine warfare, missile systems (shore & ship-based), upgraded ISR (intelligence, surveillance, and recon), unmanned aerial systems, underwater surveillance systems, submarines, AAVs (amphibious assault vehicles), amphibian aircraft, long-range helicopters, and maritime patrol aircraft," Bacordo said.

Earlier, the PN said that its FAIC-M project which seeks to acquire eight ships to replace its force of "PKMs" or medium-sized patrol craft, is still ongoing.

The project was approved for inclusion in the Horizon 2 project list of the Revised Armed Forces of the Philippines Modernization Program and has a budget of PHP10 billion.

Four of the FAIC-Ms will be armed with non-line-of-sight (NLOS) missiles with pinpoint accuracy with a range of 25 kilometers while the other four will be armed with machine guns and light automatic cannons.

With the FAIC-M, the PN shall have the capability to defend the key sea lines of communications (SLOCs), such as Mindoro, Balabac, Sibutu and Basilan Straits against conventional threats.

Operating in restricted waters, the FAIC-Ms could interdict surface threats and launch NLOS missiles safely using the surrounding littoral areas as maneuver space and cover. (PNA)

***

References:

* Philippine News Agency. "PH Navy upgrades to improve 'green-water' capabilities." Philippine News Agency. https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1117985 (accessed October 09, 2020 at 10:16PM UTC+14).

* Philippine News Agency. "PH Navy upgrades to improve 'green-water' capabilities." Archive Today. https://archive.ph/?run=1&url=https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1117985 (archived).

[phgq]

PH Navy upgrades arsenal to defend waters

#PHinfo: PH Navy upgrades arsenal to defend waters

The BRP Jose Rizal, the Philippines' first missile frigate is docked at Subic Bay, Zambales. Philippine Navy chief Vice Adm. Giovanni Carlo Bacordo said efforts to upgrade the Navy remain intact despite the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic. (File photo courtesy of Naval Public Affairs Office)

PASIG CITY, Dec. 29 (PIA) -- The Philippine Navy has upgraded its arsenal to effectively defend the country's territorial waters as part of the government's efforts to modernize the military.

Early this year, the Navy commissioned its first-ever missile frigate, the BRP Jose Rizal (FF-150), this, despite the challenges brought by the ongoing COVID-19 health emergency pandemic.  

"Despite the COVID-19 pandemic greatly affecting the implementation of the AFP’s Modernization Program this year, the Philippine Navy has remained in high spirits in terms of developing its capabilities. For one, the Navy has seen the arrival of its first modern frigate, BRP Jose Rizal in May of this year," Navy chief Vice Adm. Giovanni Carlo Bacordo said.

The BRP Jose Rizal is capable of conducting anti-air warfare, anti-surface warfare, anti-submarine warfare, and electronic warfare operations and was officially commissioned last July 10.

A few weeks after its commissioning, the ship and its crew were deployed to the biennial "Rim of the Pacific" (RIMPAC) exercises off Hawaii, which took place from Aug. 17 to 31.

Bacordo said this deployment is considered the "maiden deployment" of the brand-new missile frigate and called the participation of the ship and its contingent to the RIMPAC as a "sterling one".

Also, no defects were reported aboard BRP Jose Rizal during the two-week maneuvers.

"No reported safety and security incidents. No weapons, communications, electronic(s) and information (system) hull, machinery, and electrical sys(tem) derangements (were) reported," Bacordo earlier said.

He added that BRP Jose Rizal’s participation in RIMPAC 2020 highlights the competence and capability of the ship and its crew to undertake various maritime operational scenarios, may it be multinational operations with other partner nations, maritime security of commercial shipping, or operating on its own or with its onboard helicopter against surface and sub-surface adversaries.

"[The] FF-150 took advantage of RIMPAC 2020 to train as a team, put the ship at pace with possible real-world scenarios, and the crew to gel during this time," he said.

Bacordo said the ship's participation was also recognized by its US counterparts, specifically US Navy Third Fleet commander Vice Admiral Scott D. Conn, who earlier said they are happy to have the Philippines participating in RIMPAC with BRP Jose Rizal.

To recall, the BRP Jose Rizal was launched at the Hyundai Heavy Industries (HHI) shipyard in Ulsan, South Korea on May 23, 2019. Its sister ship, the BRP Antonio Luna (FF-151), on the other hand, was launched in the same facility on November 8 last year.

The contract for the two ships amounted to P16 billion and an additional P2 billion for weapon systems and munitions.

Aside from the arrival and commissioning of the PN's first guided-missile frigate, another highlight for the Navy this year is the partial delivery of the 10 high-speed and fast boats contracted for the Naval Special Operations Command (Navsocom).

"In addition, in August of this year, the Navsocom also saw the partial delivery of seven out of 10 high-speed and fast boats acquired under the modernization program and meant to boost special operations capability. These are currently undergoing sea trial and technical inspection procedures," Bacordo said.

Also of great importance for the PN was the acquisition of the ScanEagle unmanned aerial system with the assistance of the United States,

"Further, the PN has received through (Foreign Military Sales) FMS the donation of ScanEagle unmanned aerial system (UAS), composing of eight air vehicles, four ground-control stations, and other components that can greatly contribute to the ISR [intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance] operations and RDANA [rapid damage and needs assessment], and support to humanitarian assistance and disaster response (HADR)," Bacordo said.

Also included in this package are training for the operators and maintainers (10 pilot and six maintainers, four image and video data processors) to ensure optimized utilization," he added.

During the formal turnover of the ScanEagle UAS last Nov. 25 at Naval Base Heracleo Alano, Sangley Point, Cavite, Bacordo said the arrival of this platform will allow the Navy to greatly expand the coverage of its internal security, territorial defense, HADR, and maritime law enforcement missions.

ScanEagle unmanned drones

This is the first fixed UAS to be operated by the Navy. The ScanEagle and its associated equipment, worth USD14.79 million, were acquired through the Maritime Security Initiative Program of the United States.

It was requested by the PN in 2017 and was formalized in February 2019 after a series of dialogues with the Philippines’ Joint US Military Assistance Group (JUSMAG-Phil).

"Another milestone was achieved just recently which includes the successful negotiations for the Lot 1 (Platforms) & Lot 2 (Combat Systems and Missiles) of the Fast Attack Interdiction Craft-Missile (FAIC-M) Acquisition Project. This resulted in the provisions for an additional one unit with one set of remote combat weapon systems (on top of the programmed eight units FAIC-M) for the PN and an upgrade of the Naval Ship Yard -- without additional cost to the government. Hence, the PN expects to obtain a total of nine missile-equipped FAICs in the coming years," Bacordo said.

The FAIC-Ms, Bacordo said, are expected to replace the force of patrol killer medium (PKM) or medium-sized patrol craft, with deliveries expected to start in 2022.

The project, approved for inclusion in the Horizon 2 project list of the Revised Armed Forces of the Philippines Modernization Program, has a budget of P10 billion and is for multi-year contracting.

Four of the FAIC-Ms will be armed with non-line-of-sight (NLOS) missiles with pinpoint accuracy and a range of 25 kilometers while the other four will be armed with machine guns and light automatic cannons.

With the FAIC-Ms, the PN shall have the capability to defend the key sea lines of communications (SLOCs), such as Mindoro, Balabac, Sibutu, and Basilan Straits against conventional threats.

While operating in restricted waters, the FAIC-Ms can interdict surface threats and launch NLOS missiles safely using the surrounding littoral areas as maneuver space and cover.

Another important event for the PN in 2020 is the successful conclusion of the five-day sea acceptance trials (SAT) of BRP Antonio Luna, the second missile frigate ordered by the Navy from HHI.

The SAT started on Dec. 14 and ended on Dec. 18.

"As the second installment of the Frigate Acquisition Project, the FF-151 or BRP Antonio Luna concluded its five-day Sea Acceptance Trials recently on 18 December 2020 in South Korea. As a result, the PN is expecting to welcome this modern vessel in February 2021 and project delivery remains to be right on schedule," Bacordo said.

BRP Antonio Luna

In a media statement, Rear Admiral Alberto Carlos, head of the PN's Technical Inspection and Acceptance Committee (TIAC), declared that FF-151 is compliant with the agreed technical specifications after personally witnessing the warship's performance during the sea trials.

"[The] FF-151 is 95 percent complete at this time. All machinery and combat systems were subjected to test procedures as stipulated in the contract and were observed to be working properly. More importantly, I'm happy to announce that FF-151 passed the prescribed standards and procedures," he said.

Carlos said upon completion of the SAT, BRP Antonio Luna's completion rating is almost 100 percent. This, he added, will pave way for the frigate re-docking and final outfitting before delivery early next year.

Also, Bacordo said parallel with equipment acquisition is the command’s effort on base support and sustainment development that would address the facility requirements for the upcoming deliverables of the PN modernization program like the missile storage facilities and repair of piers and other major infrastructure, among others.

"Moreover, the non-material aspects that are crucial to the overall effort of the PN modernization are considered through the Capability Synchronization Matrix. As a crucial management tool, the matrix is seen to identify, program, integrate, implement, and monitor the overall capability development of the PN," he added.

This also includes alignment of materiel and non-materiel capabilities covering training activities that would enhance personnel competency for our personnel, doctrines development, force restructuring and organizational development, and human resource development.

Also, the PN chief is pleased to announce that the Navy is continuing its efforts in supporting the local defense industry research and development under the Self-Reliant Defense Posture program.

"In 2020, in collaboration with the Department of Science and Technology, we have seen the active implementation and near completion of 'Project Buhawi' or building a universal mount for heavy-barrel automated weapon integration for naval vessels," Bacordo said. (PIA NCR)

***

References:

* Philippine Information Agency. "PH Navy upgrades arsenal to defend waters." Philippine Information Agency. https://pia.gov.ph/news/articles/1062645 (accessed December 29, 2020 at 02:31PM UTC+08).

* Philippine Infornation Agency. "PH Navy upgrades arsenal to defend waters." Archive Today. https://archive.ph/?run=1&url=https://pia.gov.ph/news/articles/1062645 (archived).

[phgq]

Missile boats project to push thru amid Covid-19: Navy

#PHnews: Missile boats project to push thru amid Covid-19: Navy

MANILA – The Philippine Navy on Monday said its fast-attack interdictor craft-missile (FAIC-M) project, which seeks to acquire eight ships to replace its medium-sized patrol craft, or the force of patrol killer medium (PKM), will push through amid the coronavirus disease 2019 (Covid-19) pandemic.

Navy public affairs office chief, Lt. Commander Maria Christina Roxas, said the project was approved for inclusion in the Horizon 2 project list of the Revised Armed Forces of the Philippines Modernization Program and has a budget of PHP10 billion.

"FAIC-M is an acquisition project of the PN that was approved for inclusion in the Horizon 2 Projects List of Revised AFP Modernization Program with ABC (approved budget for contract) of PHP10 billion and for Multi-Year Contracting," Roxas said in a message to the Philippine News Agency.

Four of the FAIC-Ms will be armed with non-line-of-sight (NLOS) missiles with pinpoint accuracy with a range of 25 kilometers while the other four will be armed with machine guns and light automatic cannons.

"The MYOA (Multi-Year Obligational Authority) requested is for four years with payment spread by 10 percent, 20 percent, 30 percent, and 40 percent each year starting 2020 and end(ing) 2023. Hence, the 10 percent (PHP1 billion) is already programmed by the DND (Department of National Defense) in the Financial Schedule for FY (Fiscal Year) 2020," Roxas said.

She added that procurement activities will start immediately after the MYOA is approved by the Department of Budget and Management.

Earlier, PN flag-officer-in-command, Vice Admiral Giovanni Carlo Bacordo confirmed that the FAIC-M project is already included in the 2020 budget.

He added that the procurement process would have been on schedule without the Covid-19 pandemic.

Former Navy spokesperson, Capt. Jonathan Zata, said that with the FAIC-M, the PN shall have the capability to defend the key sea lines of communications (SLOCs), such as Mindoro, Balabac, Sibutu and Basilan Straits against conventional threats.

"Operating in restricted waters, the FAIC-Ms can interdict surface threats and launch NLOS missiles safely using the surrounding littoral areas as maneuver space and cover," he added.

Earlier, former PN flag-officer-in-command Vice Admiral Robert Empedrad said the Navy is eyeing to acquire eight Israeli Shipyard Ltd "Shaldag"-class patrol boats to replace the PKMs it is using for maritime interdiction operations.

"These eight 'Shaldags' will replace our PKMs (acquired from South Korea in 1995) which we are now starting to retire. The last PKM we retired was PKM 112 (BRP Bienvenido Salting)," Empedrad said in Filipino.

He added that four of the "Shaldag" patrol boats will be built in Israel while the remaining four will be constructed in the PN Cavite Naval Yard in Sangley Point, Cavite City. (PNA)

***

References:

* Philippine News Agency. "Missile boats project to push thru amid Covid-19: Navy." Philippine News Agency. https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1107323 (accessed June 29, 2020 at 09:50PM UTC+14).

* Philippine News Agency. "Missile boats project to push thru amid Covid-19: Navy." Archive Today. https://archive.ph/?run=1&url=https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1107323 (archived).

[phgq]

PH Navy eyes to acquire Israeli-made patrol boats

#PHnews: PH Navy eyes to acquire Israeli-made patrol boats

MANILA -- The Philippine Navy (PN) eyes to acquire eight Israeli Shipyard Ltd Shaldag-class patrol boats to replace the "PKMs" it is using for maritime interdiction operations.

PKM is short for "patrol killer medium" a term used to describe medium-sized naval craft tasked for patrol missions.

In an interview with reporters on Wednesday night, PN flag-officer-in-command Vice Admiral Robert Empedrad said this procurement project, which is worth PHP10 billion, was already approved by President Rodrigo R. Duterte during a recent command conference.

"These eight 'Shaldags' will replace our PKMs (which were acquired from South Korea in 1995) which we are now starting to retire. The last PKM we retired was PKM 112 (BRP Bienvenido Salting)," Empedrad said.

He added that four of the "Shaldag" patrol boats will be built in Israel while the remaining four will be constructed in the PN Cavite Naval Yard in Sangley Point, Cavite City.

The PN chief said they are waiting for the Department of Budget and Management to release the so-called "Multi-Year Obligational Authority" so that they can sign the contract for the ships.

"(Once this is signed) immediately, we send our personnel to the shipyard to Israel," Empedrad added.

The "Shaldag" is under the PN's Fast Attack Interdictor Craft-Missile (FAIC-M) project.

Under this program, four of the ships will be armed with non-line-of-sight (NLOS) missiles with pinpoint accuracy and a range of 25 kilometers.

"With the FAIC-M, the PN shall have the capability to defend the key sea lines of communications, such as Mindoro, Balabac, Sibutu and Basilan Straits against conventional threats. Operating in restricted waters, the FAIC-Ms can interdict surface threats and launch NLOS missiles safely using the surrounding littoral areas as maneuver space and cover," then PN spokesperson, Captain Jonathan Zata said of the project. (PNA)

***

References:

* Philippine News Agency. "PH Navy eyes to acquire Israeli-made patrol boats." Philippine News Agency. https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1091037 (accessed January 16, 2020 at 11:52PM UTC+14).

* Philippine News Agency. "PH Navy eyes to acquire Israeli-made patrol boats." Archive Today. https://archive.ph/?run=1&url=https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1091037 (archived).