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Tuesday, December 31, 2013

Year-Ender: A Brief Summary of 2013 Accomplishments of the AFP Modernization Program

(Bloggers note: Due to a few requests for a year-ender at a time when we also try to celebrate and rest, we'll give a short and brief one. MaxDefense still hopes that this fast-break will be good enough to brief some of our readers who are still blur on updates on the AFP Modernization Program.)


MaxDefense celebrates the end of 2013 with a brief summary of the AFP Modernization Program's major accomplishments for the entire year. Being a program that has been hampered by so many delays, scandals, political maneuvering and financial difficulties, MaxDefense is confident to say that 2013 might have been the best year for the Modernization Program since 1995. Numerous programs have started to roll this year, and some of them have been awarded or even delivered within the year.

Here's a recap of what was accomplished this year. Click on the title of each item for a link to either a previous MaxDefense blog or a MaxDefense @ Facebook discussion:


PHILIPPINE NAVY & PHILIPPINE MARINE CORPS
1. Commissioning of the BRP Ramon Alcaraz (PF-16) frigate with the Philippine Fleet - the 2nd Gregorio del Pilar-class frigate will be a further addition to the limited capability of the Philippine Navy's surface fleet. Upon commissioning it was immediately sent to Leyte to assist in the HADR operations for Typhoon Haiyan/Yolanda vicitims. Although it is only similar in capability to an offshore patrol vessel due to lack of sufficient sensors and missile weaponry, the PN is planning to install these when the ships go for a Service Life Extension Program (SLEP) soon, which may include 3D surveillance radar systems, anti-ship missiles, and other defense and offensive systems that will transform this patrol frigate into something that can fight and defend itself while giving the navy the eyes and ears in the vast Philippine EEZ.


The BRP Ramon Alcaraz (PF-16) leaving port right after the commissioning rites.


2. Commissioning of 3 AW109 Power naval multirole helicopters for the Naval Air Group - these helicopters will be based on navy ships and will be used in a variety of missions including surveillance, search and rescue (SAR), utility, and MEDEVAC. Future capability may include surface search, over the horizon target (OTHT) acquisition for naval ships, and probably even limited anti-submarine warfare (ASW) duties. We are expecting the delivery of 2 more helicopters, which according to the PN will be more capable than the 1st 3 units, being armed and with electronic warfare (EW) capability. 


The PN's AW109 Power naval helicopters during the commissioning ceremonies as part of the AFP's 78th Anniversary celebrations.
Photo taken from the Manila Times' Facebook page.


3. Awarding of the National Coast Watch Center system to Raytheon - this year also saw the awarding of a contract to Raytheon to construct and integrate the National Coast Watch Center. This include construction of the center, acquisition of related systems, andintegration of the entire Coast Watch system to different government agencies, including the AFP and the PN. The PN intends to complete several Coast Watch projects, including the Coast Watch South, Coast Watch North, and the main Coast Watch Project along the West Philippine Sea area.


Raytheon was awarded a contract to construct and integrate the National Coast Watch Center.
Photo taken fro Raytheon website.


4. Arrival of 6 Riverine Patrol Boats for the Philippine Marines - these Small Unit Riverine Craft (SURC) from Silver Boats USA will replace the some river armored crafts that the PMC previously used until they were turned-over to the Philippine Navy. They are armed with machine guns and best employed on river and coastal areas. The USMC operates a similar version of the boat for their riverine operations. 


The PMC's SURC during the presentation to public and commissioning rights.
Photo taken from Reuters.


5. Arrival of New 5-ton Kia KM-500 Artillery Prime Movers from South Korea, and other EDA Trucks from the US - the PMC displayed their new KM-500 trucks during the AFP 78th Anniversary, which will be used as prime movers for the impending 155mm Towed Howitzer purchase which is still ongoing. Aside from this new asset, the PMC also received some of the Excess Defense Article trucks provided by the US this year which can be used to increase the mobility capability of the corps. 


One of the PMC's KM-500 5-ton trucks on display during the AFP's 78th Anniversary celebrations.
Photo taken from Sandy @ Timawa Defense Forum.



PHILIPPINE AIR FORCE:
1. Arrival of the last 2 W-3A Sokol helicopters from Poland - the final batch of the W-3A Sokol helicopters from PZL Swidnik of Poland arrived early in 2013 to complete the contract for 8 units. Although criticized by the Aquino government, the helicopters found a new mission as search and rescue (SAR) helicopters for the 505th Search and Rescue Group. Near the end of its warranty period, it is expected that the PAF will upgrade these helicopters for them to perform their SAR duties better, like installation of hoists, search lights and transponders. A new paint scheme may also follow soon, probably in white and yellow.


One of the W-3A Sokols now sporting a new paint scheme as rescue helicopters for the 505th Search and Rescue Group.
Photo taken from Sandy @ Timawa Defense Forum.


2. Refurbishing of S-76A helicopters to air ambulances for the 505th Search and Rescue Group - the former gunships of the PAF are also getting another lease of life being air ambulances for the 505th Search and Rescue Group. Being air ambulances, they are equipped with mobile life support systems and will be used in transporting critically injured soldiers or victims to hospitals. Although not all S-76A in PAF inventory underwent this transformation, this is a good sign that these helicopters can still continue service with the PAF for several more years. Reportedly there are around 6 helicopters in operational service with the PAF, and we hope to see more of those stored airframes to be revived within the year.


One of the PAF's S-76A Air Ambulances from the 505th Search and Rescue Group.
Photo taken from Sandy @ Timawa Defense Forum.

3. Awarding of Attack Helicopter Acquisition Project to AgustaWestland for AW109 Power helicopters - The major acquisition project for 2013 is this, which will complement the smaller and older MD-520MG gunships of the PAF. This might also be the platform that will eventually replace these "Defenders" in the future. Armed with rocket and gun pods, these helicopters can also be configured as anti-tank platforms following further upgrades to make them compatible to fire guided missiles. In the meantime, the MD-520MG could also begin its SLEP program to extend their life for several more years.


AgustaWestland was awarded to supply 8 AW109 armed helicopters to the PAF.
Photo taken from malaysiaflyingherald blog site.



4. Notice of Award for Supply of 21 UH-1H Helicopters to Rice Aircraft Services and Eagle Copter - just before the year ended, the PAF finally awarded the supply the long delayed 21 refurbished UH-1H Huey combat utility helicopters to a joint venture of US-based Rice Aircraft Services and Canadian-based Eagle Copter. The helicopters are expected to arrive starting June next year. This will strengthen the helicopter fleet of the PAF while it waits for new assets to be procured in the near future. 13 of the UH-1H will be standard refurbished units, while 8 units will be upgraded versions.


Rice Aircraft Services and Eagle Copter finally gets a notice of award from the DND and PAF for the supply of UH-1H combat utility helicopters.
Photo taken from Rice Aircraft Services website.


PHILIPPINE ARMY:
1. Introduction of the M69B 81mm Mortars - Up to 100 units of the Bosnian-Serbian mortars were delivered to the Philippine Army (PA) this year to increase the firepower of all its infantry brigades and complement existing but older mortars in the service. More are expected to be procured of the type by the PA.


The M69B mortars displayed during the AFP's 78th Anniversary celebrations.
Photo taken from Hukbong Katihan ng Pilipinas' Facebook page.

2. Introduction of Raptor and Knight Falcon Unmanned Aerial System (UAS) - the Zamboanga City Crisis saw these UAS being deployed in action and successfully providing the needed information to the operators on the ground. The UAS are simple, small, cheap, yet effective enough for limited surveillance use and can be deployed in numbers for field operating units. The PA's Research and Development Center is still developing more advanced versions of the UAS and might be available by next year.


The Raptor and Knight Falcon UAS displayed during the AFP's 78th Anniversary celebrations.
Photo taken from Hukbong Katihan ng Pilipinas Facebook page.


3. Awarding of the Assault Rifle Acquisition Project to Remington Arms for the R4 rifle - together with the Philippine Marines (PMC), the PA will be receiving new Remington R4 carbines (M4) starting next year. These rifles will be issued to front line troopers, probably starting with the Mechanized Infantry Division troops (due to the need for a shorter rifle for those riding armored personnel carriers). Remington may also provide technical assistance to the Government Arsenal (GA) in developing future M16-derived rifles for the AFP. 


The Remington R4 carbine will be delivered starting next year.
Photo taken from Remington Defense website.


4. Introduction of M16A1 (enhanced) and M16A1 Dissipator from the Government Arsenal - several batches of refurbish and upgraded M16A1 rifles were handed over by the GA to the AFP, with majority of the rifles being delivered for the PA. The enhanced M16A1 rifles gives a new lease of life to the venerable M16A1, while the Dissipator 16" is a prelude to the proposed GA rifles to be provided to standard infantry units but still using the M16A1 as a base. More rifles are being refurbished by the GA, and we may also see M1911 refurbished pistols by next year.


M16A1 Dissipators on display during hand-over of 1 batch to the AFP.
Photo taken from Government Arsenal Facebook page.

5. Arrival of excess Armored Humvees M1114, and assorted trucks M939 and M35 series from the US - several utility vehicles were distributed to the Philippine Army from US Army EDA stocks, including armored Humvee M1114 series, and several 5-ton M939 and 2 1/2-ton M35 trucks in assorted variants like cargo & troop carrier, tractor heads, wreckers, dump trucks and van bodies. These armored Humvees saw action in the Zamboanga City Crisis providing armor and fire support for the troops.


M1114 Uparmored Humvees still in desert tan colored were utilized by the PA during the Zamboanga City Crisis. Several were delivered to the PA from US Army EDAs.



Special mention also to the modernization efforts of the Government Arsenal, which received several important items to improve their capability like the Universal Weapon Rest from SABER UK and Weighing and Gauging Machine from Waterbury Farrel of Canada delivered this year, and ongoing procurement for Electronic Pressure, Velocity, Action Time Testing Machine (EPVAT), and other items which will be procured by next year.


The Universal Weapon Rest procured from SABER of the United Kingdom.
Photo taken from Government Arsenal, DND Philippines Facebook page.


Aside from the programs realized and awarded this year, there are several ongoing bidding programs, G-2-G and FMS deals that are expected to be finalized and awarded or completed by next year. Major ticket items include, but not limited to the following:

- The Army's M113A2 delivery, Armored Recovery Vehicles, Shore-launched Anti-Ship Missile system;
- The Navy's Strategic Sealift Vessel (SSV), Frigates, procurement of additional MPAC, LCU, and SLEP for the Gregorio del Pilar-class frigates;
- The Marine Corp's Amphibious Assault Vehicle and Small Amphibian Vehicle;
- The Air Force's Light and Medium Lift Aircraft, Search and Rescue Seaplane, Flight Simulators, the FA-50 SAA/LIFT aircraft and ammunition, air defense radars, Maritime Patrol Aircraft, additional C-130s, new CUH, and bases development;
- The Army and Marines' 155mm Towed Howitzers, Night Fighting Optics, Force Protection Equipment, Mortars, Grenade Launchers, Light Rocket Launchers, additional Trucks and vehicles, additional MilSpec Radios, and various ammunition.


The awarding of the Frigate Acquisition Project is expected to be made next year, together with several other big ticket items for the entire AFP.


MaxDefense expects that 2014 would even be a better year for the AFP Modernization as many of the projects will reach the awarding stage, and there are also several programs that will have deliveries commencing in 2014. We also expects more new project announcements, many which are big-ticket items that will definitely give the AFP its needed boost. If MaxDefense sources are correct, additional funds may also boost the program with emphasis on defending the Philippines' energy-related territories in the West Philippine Sea, and equipment for Humanitarian Assistance and Disaster Relief (HADR) operations.



MaxDefense expects more big-ticket items to be announced in 2014, including the purchase of Maritime Patrol Aircraft, additional C-130s and transport planes, and more naval vessels and aircraft.

Aside from new procurements, MaxDefense expects the revival of several decommissioned or non-serviceable AFP assets due to the self-reliance and enhancement of maintenance capabilities gained these past few years. It may include additional C-130 aircraft, UH-1H and S-76A helicopters, and S-211 jets for the PAF, and armored vehicles and infantry weapons for the PA and PMC.


MaxDefense hopes that the PAF could revive another C-130 aircraft from the boneyard this 2014.

MaxDefense, as always, will try to keep its readers updated on the latest in Philippine and related defense matters, including updates on the AFP Modernization Program for 2014.  We will also try to tackle different defense issues pertaining to the Philippines and its neighbors. 

Wishing everyone a Happy New Year and we welcome a great 2014 for the AFP and the Filipino people!!

70 comments:

  1. wooooww...i never see this kind of acquisition during the past decade..

    More power to AFP

    btw..Happy New year Sir Max and to AFP..! :)

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  2. Thanks sir max montero for the simple presentation . More power to youand max defence blog family.

    Happy new year !

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  3. I hope they get to purchase new C-130's instead of reviving those from the bone yard... You know, they might crash...

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    1. Hi Alfred, the PAF will thoroughly check if the aircraft in the boneyard can still be refurbished. This will depend on the aircraft's condition and cost efficiency. If they find that it can be done but will entail costs that will almost be similar as buying a used but working aircraft, then they won't continue. So far it seems that at least 1 of the C-130s out of 3 in the yard can be revived. There are also plans to get used and even new C-130s in the near future.

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    2. just to add I believe PAF will be also bringing in specialist from Lockheed Martin in evaluating the C-130s in the bone yard if those can be still refurbished.

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  4. Thank you China. we will have our hands on your neck. - Tuna Hunter

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  5. Max i think you put the KM-500 to navy it should be in army list right ? and you forgot about the light lift aircraft, they award the indonesian company hehe. :) Happy New Year
    http://finance.detik.com/read/2013/12/30/121655/2453903/1036/tutup-tahun-ptdi-jual-2-pesawat-made-in-bandung-ke-militer-filipina

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    1. Hi, you're Indonesian, right? It is because the Philippine Marine Corps is a sub-service under the Philippine Navy. If you noticed, the Philippine Navy and Philippine Marine Corps (Marinir Filipina) is bundled together. As for the NC-212i, no formal confirmation yet except for that source, still awaiting for the formal confirmation of the Philippine-side before making the announcement.

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    2. Sir max what about the 2 SSV's? i thought it's already awarded to PT PAL last august. it was reported to 1 of our government website. please some clarification.

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    3. hi sir max i thought that the 2 SSV's are already awarded to PT PAL last august? it was reported to 1 of our government website. please some clarifications. thanks

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    4. PT PAL was the sole qualified bidder but it doesn't mean they are the winner. That is where the government news made a mistake in their report.

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  6. Happy New Year Sir Max! The modernization updates that you provided really help us to fully see and understand the efforts of our government and the AFP as well in modernizing our military...hope that by next year more good news will come for our military and hope that you won't get tired in providing us the updates...
    Just some suggestions sir max, hope that by next year you could also provide information on the modernization effort for our personnel in terms of training and their knowledge on how to cope on the new acquisitions that our military purchase...I think it is important for the common people to understand that the military will have the necessary knowledge to use and maintain such assets...
    Thank you and Happy New Year!

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    1. Happy New Year Dann! That's a difficult suggestion you have there....because these are the things that you don't usually talk about. Let's just say that whatever the AFP acquires, it always includes training and support from the supplier/manufacturer. But one you have to consider is how the new equipment will fit the current doctrines of the AFP.

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  7. Not bad for a start, but the modernization pace is still very slow.

    Considering the very low base from which our armed forces has to improve from after 50 years of severe neglect, we need to spend more funds and exert more efforts to hasten the modernization of our armed forces.

    At our current pace. it would probably take us at least 2 decades to match the armed forces of our ASEAN neighbors

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  8. So so so excited that our armed forces are now upgrading its capabilities and all the equipment acquisitions. Keep it coming!

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  9. Another nice article, ive been a avid reader of this site for almost 1-1/2 year, very informative, i really appreciate all the research and hardworks you've done in this blog. More Power Sir Max! Godbless! bigthanks!

    To AFP Mabuhay! More to come this year 2014....Salamat Pnoy! Our soldiers will be more effective with this procurements....Reyland

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  10. MaxDefense, as always, will try to keep its readers updated on the latest in Philippine and related defense matters, including updates on the AFP Modernization Program for 2014. Not bad for a start, but the modernization pace is still very slow.

    Regards,
    Komatsu Parts

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  11. Hi Sir Max, I thought the strategic sealift vessel has been awarded already? With the Php 75 billion budget is about to be consumed with commitments when will they roll out the next budget or law? Thank you for the interesting article you've been putting out, more power to you and have a prosperous and healthy new year!

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    1. When PIA made a year ender for the navy and used MaxDefense as one of its sources, i found a flaw in the way the government news agency takes its news. Why take from MaxDefense when it can take directly from PhilGeps or the Navy itself? It only means one thing: it just takes its news from private news companies. And it didn't understand how the bidding is done. PT PAL was the sole qualified bidder but it doesn't mean they are the winner. That is where the government news made a mistake in their report.

      That's why before believing anything, you'll need to double check or understand how the process is made, not all news reports are correct.

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    2. What happens then after the 75 billion pesos gets committed by 2014, will there be supplemental budget?

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    3. The Php 75 billion (actually already reaching Php 85 billion according to the latest count) are already allocated to projects since this budget was based on the projects submitted by the AFP and DND a few years ago. But in light of the Zamboanga Siege, and the back-to-back Earthquake-Typhoon disasters in the Visayas, MaxDefense expects a supplemental budget to be released, to purchase dual-use equipment like helicopters, transport planes and ships, and land vehicles.

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  12. AFP should also buy a few 45 1911s to Armscor to revitalize the local gun industry plus these are brand new.

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    Replies
    1. As far as I know, the AFP bought M1911 from Armscor before. But since pistols are not very commonly used by regular infantry it is not expected to be a major procurement should the AFP proceed with one.

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  13. happy new year sir max.....it so nice to read your blog for the whole 2013.I appreciate to much and very informative...more power sir! lem1

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  14. Seems Phil military is going to get strong in coming years with the number contracts awarded to various defence pro companies for the acquisitions ... among all of them the one that impressed me is the order of A109 which can can fly from critically situated landing spots in adverse climates and from roof helipads in densely populated areas. I read here that A109 can carry out various missions and operations in hot temperatures and high altitudes. A109 can carry out various missions and operations in hot temperatures and high altitudes. Adding it to the PAF will surely strengthens them ...

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    1. Stronger than what it is now, yes. Stronger than its neighbors, no. It will take a long time, more effort and political will, and more $$$$ before the PAF could catch-up with its neighbors.

      As for the AW109, a lot of helicopters can also do the same requirements.

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  15. This is the only forum dedicated to upgrading the afp. Thank you. I think the afp should also consider the length of time it needs to beef up itself. I think it would go much faster if they focus on radars and aircraft and land based missle systems. Its cheaper and faster. Also include special ops equipment for clandestine operations for asymetrical warfare. Worst case scenario.

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  16. Sir Max Happy New Year. Salamat po sa Hardwork nyo on this blog. nakaka addict basahin.more power po sa inyo at sa buong AFP.

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  17. Hi Max are DND already talk to germans about the Gepard class fast attack craft? if yes what is their answer ? i think it will be good for us using these kind of ships, like buy all remaining bremen class and get all gepard class in the same price as maestrale .

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  18. Vietnam now has 6 submarines.

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  19. Hi Max it has been an informative and deliberating year for the AFP defense acquisition program. Thanks to maxdefenseblogspot for your well sourced information you were able to give us a clear detail on each defense program projects and because of your avid blog followers we were able to expound and share each opinions and ideas . Not to mentioned those entertaining and comical comments of some of the bloggers. The spice and salt of life. Kudos to you for a job well done. Happy New Year and more bloggers to come !

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  20. ..just wondering.. sir max, is it possible for our pilots to train in other countries like the US or S.KOREA in flying LIFTs for our future MRFs??,, and then instead of buying FA-50, just get true MRFs like f-16 or Gripens??.. but I'm still with getting the fa-50.. hope u could enlighten sir max.. tnx..

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  21. sir max i don't know if this can be relayed to the PAF just read in an article that the Isreali defense force is selling it kfirs cheap fully upgraded with aesa radars, look down shoot down capability, open architechture avionics and are mach 2 capable for 20m a piece ready and available after one year with a forty year warranty. Though they may be old they i suspect they havent been used much since they use their f16's and f15's only. Plus they look good hehe:)

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  22. I am confident that pnoy will approvevthe 52% downpayment for the acquisition of this 12 fa-50 soon and hoping within this january of 2014.I fully support for this project modernization of our armed forces and this is gonna be a top choice for the air force to trsin them will for the incoming mrf as well as capable of guarding our sky from chinese mongoloid intruder. lem1

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  23. Hi Sir Max, seems that some one is trying to sabotage the fa-50 acquisition with negative or uneducated comments, must be china's fifth column. I hope they approve the 52% down payment, there is another reason for that as the US currency is starting to strenghten as US investments are being brought back to the States. Someone did make a comment on the exchange rate's impact on the budget. This is a hedge strategy and at the end of the day we will still pay for it. Freddie

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  24. Max. Can you make a new topic for the upcoming M113?

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  25. China now says that our fishermen should ask permission before fishing. WTF. Maybe now is the right time to get our act together or forever be the doormat of China and the weakest ASEAN military. If the government still thinks the FA 50 is expensive how about this full fledged, cheaper and well armed F-21 kfir fighter.
    http://rhk111smilitaryandarmspage.wordpress.com/2013/10/24/kfir-block-60-for-the-philippine-air-force/

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    1. yah i agree too..the PAF-DND should have a fall back in case FA-50 will not push through.

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  26. Max. Is there any update on the modernization of afp? Specially the fa50 aircrafts.

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    1. As of 1/10/14, the DND asked PNoy to release funds for the 52% down payment for the jets.

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  27. he he, recent news says oil was found in Cebu by an Australian company but I don't see it in the headlines news only in Business World on line 3 days ago. Im sure there are more possible sites for oil that need to be explored like in Aparri, Cagayan valley, Nueva Ecija, Sulu, etc. anyway they are now analyzing if this is commercial quantity and grade. Lets hope for the best and hope that the politicians and officials again will steal the proceeds of this oil revenues like they did with the mampalaya funds. even with 25% of the oil revenues goes to defense, then the FA-50 acquisition should not be a problem and future incoming MRFs

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  28. Good news for all pilipno.kaya lang kailangan bantayan sa mga politikong magnanakaw.

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  29. they should expand the Government Arsenal to include upgrades and development of aircrafts, choppers, missiles, rockets, artillery, radars, ships, or anything that has something to do with defense. high tech or low tech.

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    1. The GA will be expanding into production of ammunition and other defense-related items, with a comprehensive plan already in the works to use their facility in Bataan for defense related production and research.

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  30. Sir Max!!!!!!!!!!!

    What happen to your FB page?????

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    1. ..yeah what happened to ur fb page sir max??

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  31. HI sir max what happened to your FB we can't accsess???

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  32. Hi Max what happened to your facebook blog?

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  33. Sir Max what happned to you??????your FB hindi na na accsess.......

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  34. In reference to the Coastwatch radar systems I am curious whether the PN or AFP have a comprehensive coastal warfare and mine warfare organization. I cannot find any references to such capabilities on official websites or through Google, Wiki, etc.

    I ask because it seems to me that for an archipelagic nation with numerous chokepoints, utter reliance on seaborne trade and few naval units the Philippines might consider development of mine warfare and coastal warfare capabilities as a cost-effective alternative to the acquisition of expensive large surface combatants and submarines. I point to the US Navy experience with Mobile Inshore Undersea Warfare Units and Inshore Boat Units; minesweepers, minehunters and minelaying systems; port security units; and other low-lost, low-impact units.

    Rather than plan on going toe-to-toe against a large Asian nation's blue water navy I would submit that the AFP/PN could focus instead on naval mine systems; AUV/UAV; small attack craft and missile boats (corvettes); coastal radar, SAM and anti-ship missile systems; and PMC/SWAG-based fleet and harbor protection units.

    In short, take a page from the adversary's playbook and begin planning a defense operational model around anti-access/area-denial (A2AD).

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    1. i agree. this very good strategy..

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    2. It is true that the AFP /PN cannot compete with our neighbors naval assets but we still need to improve our long range naval surface patrol namely the frigates and corvettes. These assets as discuss in the past blogs are the only assets that could be committed for long range patrols other than what the current aircraft inventory the AFP has. Although fast attack naval crafts and other auxiliary vessels have secondary roles with regards to their umbrella support as mentioned in your commentaries. Implementing these would require bases in strategic locations that would enable these assets to respond at a given time because of its short length of time it can stay in a mission. My only concern are the use of naval mines for assymetric warfare . Surface laid mines are detonated by contact and does not ID whether friends or foe . Submarine mines would be ideal against a group of underwater threats. These are all instruments for a comprehensive coast watch system . I strongly suggest that the US should be a part of this integrated coast defense network since they would greatly benefit in terms of what it can offer in its array of intelligence network and not to mention the air and surface defense network it could provide to its naval task force.

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  35. there's report that pre-evaluation team are looking into the kfirs b60 already.

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    1. There were. No decision yet as the budget for any fighter purchase is still unavailable.

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  36. why not if Korean FA-50 still hanging on the balance....nice to hear that...

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  37. according to yahoo news, china is building a 2nd aircraft carrier with the goal of 4 aircraft carriers.

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  38. according to my sources inside the AFP, that the govenment have a very poor record of paying its contractors. thats why many foreign defense contractors refuse to attend or interested of doing business with the government including local contractors. they even recommend that the country is better off building its defense industry itself or not build at all. This maybe is the reason why the defense or AFP has been neglected for 20 years in its upgrades.

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  39. or better yet, just beg for donations as usual.

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  40. But the more and more serious threats from China and with the second aircraft carrier being built now in China. the PHL and its politicians has no choice but to fast track the modernization and if contractors demand payments on time then the government has no choice but pay. Besides how about these recent deliveries like the Sokols, now the Augusta choppers, and in the pipline like the155 howitzers, RPG 7, more frigates and the armored fighting vehicles from Israel. this deals must demand down payments and on time or else no deliveries.

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  41. Its time our leaders & politician's act together to fast track the procurement of our military assets on time.....We should by now studying the Multi-role fighter and defence radar that AFP needs.

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    1. The air defense radar systems are part of the priority projects, although the multirole fighter is still on the next phase....unless a change of heart by the government.

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    2. Sir Max both are crucial and link together. the goverment should address the MRF, air defence radar and missile defence system in the next phase...

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    3. The AFP knows it. But it is hampered by the lack of budget, and the massive influx of requirements due to previous non allocations by the government. For the mean time, the SAA/LIFT will take the place of the multirole fighter while they are still being decided and defended for funding.

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  42. Well Sir Max it takes two to tango...we need the air defence radar and we need the MRF to complement the system....

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  43. Malacanang already approved the d/p for FA-50 in a progressive payment of KAI-FA-50 LIFT....and it's expected delivery by 2015..

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