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Monday, March 31, 2014

Importance of ASW Helicopters for the Philippine Navy...Why Block their Acquisition?

The DND finally announced to the public their intention to acquire 2 anti-submarine helicopters, as discussed in several MaxDefense entries. Although the media reports point to AgustaWestland's AW159 Wildcat, it is still actually too early to speculate which exact model will be acquired. According to MaxDefense sources, there is no specific choice yet, although the Wildcat and the Seahawk are likely frontrunners.

A link to one of the local news reports can be accessed HERE.

The invitation to bid for 2 ASW helicopters has recently been released, amd will be conducted as a 2-stage process. This is similar to the bidding procedure of the PN's 2 new frigates. ABC remains the same as discussed in previous MaxDefense blog, at Php 5.4 billion for both helicopters, including Integrated Logistics Support (ILS) package and training for air and ground crew. Deadline of submission of bids will be this coming April 24, 2014.


Why do we need to acquire Anti-Submarine Helicopters anyway?


A US Navy MH-60R with dipping sonar during one of it's sorties.
Photo taken from Aviationnews.eu.


These helicopters are specialized in supporting naval vessels in detecting, tracking, and destroying hostile submarines and surface ships that enters our territory or threaten our sea assets and national security as a whole. The helicopters work hand-in-hand with the underwater detection systems of naval vessels and other aircraft like Maritime Patrol Aircraft. The speed and range of the helicopter increases the ship's detection and weapon launching radius. If properly coordinated, the pairing of these assets increases the detection probability, ability to defend the ship from torpedo attacks, and speeds up neutralizing the submarine threat. This is possible as the helicopter and naval vessel can share information via data link, with detection capability provided by the helicopter's onboard dipping sonar system, and other detection systems like sonobuoys and magnetic anomaly detection systems. This in turn gives a better situation awareness to the navy, and allows them to destroy the submarine threat if necessary.

To improve on this capability, the Philippine Navy is in the process of procuring of 2 new frigates with ASW capability, and this is where the 2 ASW helicopters will be attached. Other ships of the PN are planned for upgrades to include submarine detection capability, while the Philippine Air Force is on its way to procure Maritime Patrol Aircraft which can also do ASW duties.


Aside from ASW helicopters, MPA can also assist in doing ASW duties.  The PAF is on its way to procure at least 2 MPA that may have submarine detection capabilties.
Photo taken from Ihdwal.com .


ASW helicopters don't work alone.  The misconception of many is that the ASW helicopter does the work for the frigate, which is incorrect. A better explanation of how ASW helicopters work can be seen in a video from the Singapore Armed Forces:




MaxDefense confirms that there are indeed reports that Chinese and other country's submarines are operating within our archipelagic waters, and that itself is a very strong reason why the PN is beefing up its ASW capability after losing its place as one of the best ASW navies in South East Asia from the 1960s until the late 1970s. 

To those in doubt, a photo of RPS Negros Occidental firing anti-submarine torpedoes during RP-US ASW Exercise "Dolphin I" can be seen in Gorio B's Flickr account HERE, as a proof that the PN did have ASW capabilities before.


So Why Block It's Acquisition?

Immediately after the announcement, the project was being brought into the limelight by Isabela congressman Rodolfo Albano III, which was reported by local media HERE. Although his alternative platforms for immediate acquisition are understandable (more C-130s and helicopters for HADR operations, his reason for not acquiring these helicopters and blocking the acquisition of the FA-50 jets are not. His reasons are too shallow and seeMaxDefense sees this as a problem that needs to be taken a deeper look by the government.

As explained in earlier replies to comments regarding this issue, MaxDefense believes that there could be reasons why Cong. Albano is doing this, either:
  • He is misinformed and stupid enough to make such comments without further research; 
  • He wants to get media mileage for blocking the acquisition, to make him look good to the public or to boost his and his family's image to the voting public;
  • He supports other government projects that can be funded well if the AFP Modernization Program is blocked or diverted to other projects;
  • He sees the modernization of the AFP as a threat to his interests;
  • He is a Chinese lapdog, and is among a few possible people that can be in the payrolls of the Chinese government.
If his reason to block these purchases is the first reason, this can still be corrected by DND lobbying and information drive to inform the congressman and his team. Strong and consistent lobbying by the DND to Congress and Senate can be made to inform them properly of their plans, reasons, and decisions. In return these politicos can understand the concept of the defense procurement and planning and may support the DNF and AFP in getting what they need They also need to know the implications of not having these capabilities. This is currently a weak point of the DND that needs to be given more effort.

Frigates with ASW capabilities are being procured by the PN. ASW helicopters increases their capability two-fold, and make their purchase relevant. Why block this project?

But this is not the first time the congressman and other lawmakers made similar efforts to block AFP projects to modernize its capability by relating it to arms race against China. If the Americans can arrest a erring senator because of national security threats to the Philippines aside from illegal activities, there is more reason for the Philippine government to do the same to safeguard its defense and interests in national security. Who knows what we can find in these lawmaker's closets - criminal and illegal activity? Sabotage? Plunder? Treason? We don't know and we won't know unless the government investigates. 

Defense goes hand-in-hand with development. Other countries have the same concept, and does not leave their defense capability vulnerable. The Philippines' closest southern neighbor, Malaysia, has a fleet of AgustaWestland Super Lynx 300 ASW helicopters in its arsenal.


It must be remembered by everyone that the country's constitution states that the Filipino people has an obligation to defend the country and keep its sovereignty for whatever the cost, and this can only be done by having the right tools to do the job. The government must investigate these people and their actions and words be taken seriously. MaxDefense believes that there might be more to their usual reason of diverting the AFP modernization funds to development projects, only stupid people can be made to believe on that.


162 comments:

  1. hopefully this acquisition will move forward immediately for our brand new frigates
    by the way sir max any latest updates on the 2 frigates

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    1. Aside from using helicopters, I think it would be better to request the US to escort with a US Navy Frigate the Philippine re-supply ship to Ayungin Shoal under the EDCA agreement para hindi makalapit ang Chinese CG ships sa supply ship.

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    2. I think the Philippines should start license-manufacturing and assembling all the weapons systems for the AFP and not just buying them year after year so we can be self-reliant. We can start with assault rifles & ammunitions for PA. MPACs for PN, ASM/SAM missiles for PAF, patrol boats for PCG and amphibious assault vehicles for Phil. Marines.

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  2. Those Tonggressmen trying to block the acquisition of military hardware are either they are left leaning or just plain stupid who is just simply ill-informed. Albano needs to be brought in the spotlight and let him defend himself against a Timawan or PDFF blognut and let's see how he handles himself. Obviously he is not getting a cut on the procurement process that is why he is screaming mad. Just plain pathetic!

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    1. Kundi ako nagkakamali yan rin ang Albano na nagpo-promote ng Chinese copy ng Mig21 sometime ago at sinabi pa nya na nakapagpabagsak ang mga ito ng US fighter planes. You can conclude from that.

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  3. The one problem with the Philippines is that getting the MH-60R's from America will always come with Strings and conditions. America is not going to give something without getting something in return.

    That's why for the Philippines they need to look at getting an ASW/ASUW helicopter without strings or conditions such as the AgustaWestland AW159 Wildcat, AgustaWestland AW101 or the Eurocopter AS565 Panther.

    here's a Link to the AugustaWestland Helicopters I think the Philippines should look at http://www.agustawestland.com/content/military-government

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    1. Nicky, there will be a 2-stage bidding for the ASW helicopters. If Sikorsky does not submit a bid, that's the end of MH-60s for the Philippine Navy.

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    2. I highly doubt Sikorsky will ever submit a bid for MH-60R. That's cause Sikorsky may think the Philippines can't afford it. So their most likely option will be AgustaWestland AW159 Wildcat, AgustaWestland AW101 or the Eurocopter AS565 Panther

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    3. Lets just see what happens. $60m is within Seahawk pricing. But it depends on the bidders. AW159 also had a fighting chance due to cost

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    4. Sikorsky will submit a bid if the Philippine Army will submit a request. Nicky if you are a business man, would you let an opportunity pass? However the conditions of a client you can adapt to it. They can sell it in a cheap package deal but with long time agreement. They can always use the maintenance and parts purchase as a subsidiary for keeping the MH-60R Cheap. It's a deal which no side can loss. However this is just my opinion, I'm talking in a business man world. Let's just see what happens next.

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  4. I agree with ur position Sir but to me, if we talk of priority, why not prioritize 1st radar & other modern detection system at par wit other modern countries in Asia that extends as far as 250miles frm our shores with integration of missile defense, & hav the assets later??..plss enlighten me Sir if there's merit wit my simple & raw ideas.

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    1. Your idea has its merits, but you have to understand that this ASW helicopter is part of the "modern detection system" that you are talking about. As part of the frigate, it becomes a submarine detection tandem platform. Read the blog entry again as you may have missed the point of purchasing this asset.

      Also, the radar, surface-to-air missiles, and anti-ship missile platforms are under different procurement projects that is being undertaken at the same time as this helicopter and other important projects. They have their own budgets and can be procured at the same time as the ASW helicopters.

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    2. Well said Sir...thank u...I'm jst too eager to hav these modern detection devices on shores before these fying assets. Anyway Sir u & the AFP-DND know better than us. I trust ur position...

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  5. No G2G. It will be a 2-stage bidding accdg to this Philippine Star article :
    http://www.philstar.com/headlines/2014/03/31/1307111/bidding-p5.4-b-helicopter-deal-set-april-24

    Delivery will be within two years.

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    Replies
    1. Thanks, so this confirms that there is no definite winner yet, but this improves the chances of AgustaWestland due to pricing. It would be interesting to see the technical specs of the helicopters as it defines the model they are really interested in.

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  6. The ugly looking AW159 vs the sexy looking MH-60. I wonder which one will give you more bang for the buck.

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  7. Here is a nice story about Korea's decision to buy the AW159 vs MH-60. AW159 was smaller/cheaper and the MH-60 was more capable.

    https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=X0Mc0ezSyIw

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    Replies
    1. Smaller and cheaper - the same possible reasons for an AW159 win with the PN.

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  8. .sir max, would our 2 new ASW frigates have stealthy design??

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    1. The bidding for the frigates isn't over yet. But there's good chance they will be of "stealthy" design.

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    2. We should not talk about price what would be the capability this ASW has to have a credible deterrence and effective/efficient defense system because helicopter is vulnerable to SAM. So it must be studied thouroughly vis-a-vis with good and acceptable price of acquisition. Not to mention to be able to counter the sigint/elint threats against this helo platform. The ASW abd EWS is a complex battle space it needs a robust, secured and timely fusion of data information among Joint Operational Concept.

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  9. After i read the news yesterday from local media i nearly cry. Can't imagine na meron napaka kitid na utak na naninilbihan sa gov't. Nandito na tayo sa modernization ng AFP natin tapos may nagblobock ng program na tao na mismo walang alam. Im ofw at kung makita ko mga military equipment ng ibang bansa i always wish sana meron din tau.

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    1. Pariho pala tayo, naiingit din ako pag my nakikita ako s ibang bansa na mga makabagongkagamitang pang digma. Naiisip kong meron lng kame ganito sa pinas baka wala ng nambu-bully samin at sa mga tulad kong ofw.

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  10. Very well said sir. I hope there are certain meetings with the DND,AFP with the senate and congress that will help them understand the needs of the AFP. National Security must be a concern that cannot be shooed away for developments. the 2 must go together

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  11. one of the best strategy for the DND to shut these incompetent, corrupt and maybe even traitorous (or treacherous) politicians is to come up with an intensive and sustained media campaign to explain to the public its objectives and modernization plans ... then commission an sws or pulse asia survey to gather public sentiments. since china is already helping them in this with its bullying actions, i'm pretty sure even the madlang people will be very supportive.

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    1. Would anyone have access to the staff or office of Albano for him to read these comments and perhaps realize that its best for him to shut up or be investigated. Agree that an sws survey be done about China's bullying and shouldn't be just a few samples.

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  12. Im so dissapointed with this congressman,.thats the reason why we are left behind by our neighbors because of this kind of politician,.magaling lang makisawsaw para mapansin walang alam.,Go Philippine AFP Modernization wag kyo padestruct sa mga yan,!

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  13. if this project pushes through, the AFP will become the most modernized military organization in south east asia. our capabilities will be comparable to that of japan or south korea which have their own fleet of anti sub choppers. i'm just glad that the philippines armed force is slowly but surely becoming a very strong military. by 2016, our forces will be more powerful than all of the southeast asian military combined.

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    1. Nope, that's wrong. We are still far behind. Just in ASW helicopters, Singapore has 6 S-70B ASW helicopters aboard 6 Formidable-class multipurpose frigates, and ordered for 2 more. Thailand has 6 S-70B ASW helicopters aboard their aircraft carrier HTMS Chakri Naruebet, plus 2 Super Lynx 300 ASW helicopters aboard frigates, plus 4 more ordered. We are still so far behind even against Malaysia or Thailand.

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    2. Research more about the military capability of each of the ASEAN members, Japan, South Korea, Taiwan and China. See the big difference in numbers, quality and equipment.

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    3. Our naval power can't even match with a small country like Singapore. Singapore has 6 frigates, 6 corvettes, 6 submarines, 4 for mine warfare.

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    4. This comment is the most laughable comment that I've ever seen for the last weeks :D Hillarious!

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    5. 100% AGREE.. AFP IS THE WEAKEST IN THE REGION. OUR LEFTIST SENATONG ... KICKED THE AMERICANS AND 3 YEARS AFTER THE CHINESE OCCUPIED MISCHIEF REEF.. NOW AFP IS IN THE NECK OF TIME CATCHING THE NEIGHBORS.. TIME TO BRING BACK THE AMERICANS WHILE WE MODERNIZE OUR AFP..

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    6. If you bring in the Americans, the Philippines must not be complacent by doing nothing. It must start modernizing under the protection of the Americans.

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    7. I completely agree. But there's uncertainty in 2016. If only the Constitution allows a President a second term just like in the US, then the modernization of the AFP will continue. Six years is too short for a good President.

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  14. Yup. Even if we already acquired this 2 new Frigates and the 2 Multi Purpose Sealift, our Navy still a long way to match China or even a smaller country like Taiwan that has a much well armed Navy than the Philippines.

    https://www.facebook.com/photo.php?fbid=395533963890458&set=pb.100003015721692.-2207520000.1396247558.&type=3&src=https%3A%2F%2Ffbcdn-sphotos-g-a.akamaihd.net%2Fhphotos-ak-frc3%2Ft1.0-9%2F1045146_395533963890458_1749572729_n.jpg&size=621%2C528

    Sana lang ay mag tuloy tuloy itong modernization up to the next President.

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    1. better to have one or nothing.... wag ka masyado negative Mr. kasi dyan talaga magsisimula ang lahat sa paunti unti..hindi yung gusto mo na bulky agad ang pagbili ng gamit pandigma... naka pag aral ka ba ng grade 1?

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  15. That congressman does'nt know anything....utak biya talaga...pwe!!!!!

    Everything is going at right direction for AFP modernization...sana MRF program is comiing soon..go...go...go...afp

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    1. a good example how money works! because of money you will become a politician even though you don't know anything...He should be investigated about his nonsense comment...

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  16. Our goverment must push through even beyond 2016 with a new commander in chief...we must push to make afp at par with other asean countries...we must think beyond..hindi natatapos sa 2 brand new frigates and 12 FA-50....kailangan tuloy tuloy ang programs ng modernization sa 3 branch ng AFP and coast guard natin. Kaya assertive ang china sa west philippine sea is because of huges oil and gas deposit na nasa ating bakuran...hindi talaga puede i-give-up yan ng basta basta.

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  17. Lahat ng simula ay mula sa isa sunod dalawa sunod tatlo and so on......kasi c albano sanay sa umpisa milyon na agad sunod milyon milyon sunod milyon milyon milyon.

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  18. The first four reasons for Cong. Albano's criticism of the modernization program is convincing. But I find "Chinese lapdog" treading on dangerous ground. I see comments about how leftist parties are being criticized for being under China's payrolls. But I really don't see how this is happening, unless there's an instance when it was proven that somebody was really under Chinese puppetry.

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  19. It's easy to say such stupid things especially from those incompetent government officials who are unwilling to support the modernization and protection of our country.it's easy for them because they are not the ones doing the hard work and sacrifice to implement the security of each and every filipino.All they do is eat extravagantly, sleep comfortably and think how to get richer everyday. They can't even start to imagine that the blood of a fellow filipino will be saved everytime they support the moderanization of the AFP because we should give our soldiers the proper equipment to defend our country and to keep them alive as well when they perform their duty.As for the Helicopters, I hope we could get the MH 60R or the AW159 Wildcat for our (hopefully, Incheon-class) frigates.

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    1. Lets not forget that they think foremost is their PDAF

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    2. Absolutely!It's very possible for the Phillipines to catch up if not surpass its neighbors if the government uses its resources wisely. Look at Japan, it's a country with no or little natural resources but with very good livelihood and protection. It's because they think of the people first before the government which is what our country should also do.

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    3. Yes, its easy for them to say these things as they are soooo naturally stupid. They don't understand that when we sign treaties we have an obligation or resposibility as well as must put something on the table and at this point we don't have much. Unfortunately they can't understand these things, it's beyond their capability.

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    4. Yup, your'e right. I read one blolg about one London-based think tank, and they said what we purchased now is not yet enough but it's a start of better things to come. I understand if they (some government officials) continue to lob for disaster relief equipments but we should also prioritize our security. And talking about treaties, I'm not sure why some government officials are against it. Treaties make our country cooperate with other nations to help each other, especially during times of crises.

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  20. congressman Rodolfo Albano III A WOLF HIDING IN A SHEEP CLOTH, A HONORABLE TRAITOR !!!

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  21. Anyone knows the address of this "Albano"? Might need to give him a visit.

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  22. The guy Albano has rights to say his opinion, the only he thing he need to do should have put his foot on his mouth. He he does not know any knowledge of our AFP capabilities...insisting to prioritize national disaster program er how about disater on taking you own boreder by other countries like china? Do you think Congressman Albano can help us on his own diplomacy with China?...what stupid congressman making stupid comments on national sovereignty issues.

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  23. Look what happened to Crimea of Ukraine...ang labanan is MIGHT IS RIGHT....It's looks the same what happening in west philippine sea...Kaya dapat handa lang ang afp pero kailangan nila ng ayuda...mga modernong gamit....wag tayo magpaka busabos sa eye ng mga kapitbahay na mga bansa sa asia...kaya meron o walang problema dapat gawin nating moderno ang gamit ng afp....we have no choice kailangan sumabay tayo sa abot ng makakaya ng bansa....

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  24. Ipadala yan sa Ayungin or sa Panatag... ALBANO = ESTUPIDO.

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  25. "waste of money" that's a Chinese lapdog pretending Mr. know it all Congressman will say because for every money that is spend wise is a waste to a corrupted official.

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  26. dapat ipagpatuloy ng mga kawal natin ang pag depensa sa ayungin shoal in all ways. kasi pag nakuha na ng mga chinese mongols yan.. sigurado sunod yung iba pang mga isla natin.. yan yang ang tactics ng mga chinese mongols sa nabasa ko sa isang article way back two years ago. yung cabbage strategy nila na sakupin yung ayungin yan na nagsimula na nilang e execute, that is why I challenge our AFP how they handle this situation. much better if we put a coast gaurd ship their to station or magpapadala palage tayo ng supply ship don para ma aware yung mga mongols na yan na may active duty tayo. nagiging aktibo ang mga mongols na yan kasi bihira sa isang taon tayo nagpapalit ng mga marines dun. importante na palage yun bibisitahin ng coast guard natin ang ayungin shoal.otherwise this will be a great lose to us!

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  27. ayaw ni albano gumastos ang pilipinas sa mga gamit ng AFP,kasi gusto nya sa pork barrel gamitin para may kupit siya.

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  28. I'm sure our President will look into this seriously, this is a clear act of treason... If only congressmen and senators have not stolen our taxpayer's money and had we have 3 Pnoy like president, I can only imagine how good we could have been... This congressman is clearly a leftist and given the chance, will accept bribe from foreign entities sacrificing everything that our ancestors have died for...

    My take on this is that, if we were able to suceed with throwing away a wicked president thru peaceful means, maybe people power can be used a retain a good one..,

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  29. kahit anong pilit kong intindihin ung question ni albano na para saan ang plan na pagbili ng ASW hindi ko talaga ma-get. tanga ba sya or nagta-tanga-tangahan lang talaga kasi me vested interest sya? seriously, para syang mentally challenged dun sa question nya.

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    Replies
    1. baka gusto lang ibulsa ang pang bili??

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    2. palagi namang wala sa sarili ang mga buwayang politikong mga yan e',papano ang palaging iniisip ng mga yan ay kung papano sila magpapaka bundat.mga politikong walang kabusugan!

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  30. Top anti sub chopper price tag
    Mh-60r seahawk: 28 million dollar
    Nh90 nfh: 42 million dollar
    Aw159 wildcat: 44 million dollar
    Super lynx 300: 14 million dollar
    S-70b seahawk: 36 million dollar
    As565 panther: 18 million dollar
    Ngaun ang budget ay 120 million dollar anu sa tingin nyo.
    sa tingin ko
    super lynx 300 o as565 panther ang pwede
    aw159 wildcat medyo alangan sa akin.

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    1. ser baka apat, 2 sa WHEC and 2 sa new frigates? pwede kaya? sir Max salamat po sa blog site po ninyo

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    2. San mo naman nahagilap yung "Price Tag" mo? At saka mag review ka ng mathematic mo!

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    3. wala naman papansin kay cong albano nuh.... alam ng gobyerno na delay na yang afp modernization at we face big china. medyo vogue yung reasoning ni albano.

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    4. The MH-60 can't fit the WHEC's hangar, thus the reason why the AW109 were purchased. The AW159 might have the same problem with the WHEC's hangar. I believe this was discussed in an older blog entry here at MaxDefense blogs.

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  31. depende sa terms of reference ng pn. but aw159 eh pasok sa budget of course mh60 or s70 mga well know asw chopper. let's see as the pn lay out the TOR and bidding...

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  32. sir max if you don't mind any news on the upgrade of our GdP frigates parang wala ng news kasi.

    thanks

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  33. Here's an open letter to Mr. Albano about his comment on the acquisition of ASW choppers.
    http://daddystargazer.blogspot.com/2014/03/open-letter-to-rodolfo-albano-iii-regarding-asw-helo.html

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  34. Baka gus2 nya sa bulsa nya mapunta ang pera.putang inang mga pulitikong mga kontra bida sa pagpapalakas ng sandatahang lakas ng PILIPINAS.gs2 yata nila maagaw ang spratlys sa atin.kc wlang problema sa kanila.puno na bulsa nila sa pagnanakaw ng pera ng bayan.ang kakapal ng muka nila.lalo na yang albano na yan.dapat firing squad yan at sa ipadala sa spratlys at ipambala sa chinese na katulad nya makitid ang pag pag iisip.isa pa yan di drilon 10billion binawasan nya ng 5billion.ang pondo kaya sa susunod na halalan di ko boboto mga pulitikong epal at balimbing.dati kay aroyo sya ngayun nagsumipsip kay noynoy.GORFON AKO KUNG MAN MIRRIAM.

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  35. Ok ayusin ko para sa u
    120 million dollar budget
    Kung aw159 mga dalawa lang mabili kasama
    ........kasama after sale suppott pakage.
    Kung super lynx 300 o as565 panther mga .........apat kasa .n training at after sale ..........support pakage. ...........Means may tig isa anghamilton class ...........at paparating na new frigate....

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  36. I'll correct my self
    Aw159 is at 27 million dollar not 44 million dollar

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  37. Remember Congressman a developing country needs a strong defense posture to sustain our economic activity specifically this country is relying on fuel.

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  38. Mr Max, this blog topic had created a hate attitude towards a government official. Their is a venue for grievances against government/political personalities and I dont think this site is one of them.

    But then again, this is a sign of a citizens frustration!. We all know the saying "if you cant beat them, join them". So I think not all corrupt officials are corrupt deep inside but are frustrated that they've given up and just joined the volley of corruption.... The question is, how will the Filipino people deal with this?. -- Freemindonline

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    1. I think hate is not the right description, it's anger towards a govt official bcoz his acts or statements go agains the fasttracking of AFP modernization, & the frustration of Fil people over corrupt officials that hav aggravated the neglect of our external defense

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  39. Mr. albano didn't show any patriotism here, but it was a bad move for him, because most of the youths(including me) support the AFP modernization today. only the leftist will believe him. but still an idiotic move like nancy binay who also attacked by criticism from netizens..

    Anyway. Max, there is already a news about the 6 Close air support aircraft, and we finally know that we are acquiring Shore based Anti-ship missile and not SAM, and DND also planning to acquire improved hawk to defend the SSM, south korea are already replacing them by KM-SAM they will sell the hawk in a low price.. or we should acquire israels patriot they already replaced them by david sling.

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  40. I think much better kung MH 60R and makukuha ng pinas kasi it's a proven platform. The AW 159 is attractive but sana MH 60R nalang. And if we can't afford that many equipment sana ang makuha natin is ang mga modern na proven platform. Example is South Korea, the North Koreans outnumber them in Ground and Air Forces I think 3:1 but The North can't touch the South kasi alam nila na mas modern kahit di ganun karami ang mga gamit nila.

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  41. Gentlemen, interesting article at roilogolez.blogspot.com

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  42. There should be a Philippine law that will require a congressman's kid to serve in the Philippine Army with the rank of Private while the congressman is still serving in Congress. If the kid is too young then he/she can serve later. I bet you all DND request for money will be approved.

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  43. During the era of Marcos and the earlier presidents, our country's military is one of the strongest in the region. Lets get back the old days!

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  44. max i like your blog can pwede.kaba mag post ng CAS aircraft review or meron na sadyang di ko lang nakita salamat i think PAF is interested in super tucano

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    1. I believe I made a blog post about the OV-10 replacement in the past.

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  45. yung budget natin sa Modernization masyadong maliit, sana man lang dinag dagan at ginawang at least 100 billion pesos.mas marami tayong mabibili kung ganon ang binigay na budget. siguro nakuha natin 3 squadrons of F/A 50 at 4 frigates ang nabili hindi lang dalawa.

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  46. Sir Max, how true and close were we in acquiring the F-18s in the past? Also, when does the construction of our two SSVs start?

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Not really close, but McDonnell Douglas (before being acquired by Boeing) has been offering the C/D legacy Hornet to the PAF since 1995. But it wad competing against other fighters.

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    2. The SSV is not yet contructed. There's been a design change requested by PN. The design in question is about enlarging the hangar from 1 bird to 2 birds. So the SSV is still at design stage right now. Don't be surprised if the delivery will be delayed.

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    3. Yes, just like the Russian Migs, They did offer them. It went against Migs and other Fighter, but sad to say our Air Force came empty handed in the Past.

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  47. Tuta ng china yan si Albano sa sunod huwag nyong botohin yan....

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  48. Sir max. Is the acquisition of these 2 helos different from those 2 aw109 naval helos that is still pending? As far as I know 5 naval helos plus 2 asw helos. Is it correct?

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    Replies
    1. Nope this 2 Anti-sub helicopters is a different puchase from 3+2 naval AW109. The first 3 AW109 was already delivered and are used for primarily for SAR. The additional 2 units to be delivered later this year are armed (machine guns and rockets) to be used on the 2 WHECs.

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  49. PHILIPPINE NAVY MUST HAVE ASW HELICOPTERS TO BE A CREDIBLE AND PROFESIONAL NAVAL FORCE. PHILIPPINE SEA POWER MUST BE BASED ON A SOLID TECHNICAL, STRATEGIC, AND TACTICAL FOUNDATION. SEA POWER IS A MUST FOR A FREE MARITIME ISLAND NATION LIKE THE PHILIPPINES

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  50. why not invest first in a land based missile system for instant deterent. fill the phlippines with unconventional brahmos missiles and submarines (douglas mcarthur's strategy against the japanese w/c higher ups thumbed down). we cannot fight china on a $ on $ basis. we should not be enamoured w/ conventional warfare. spend precious lack of budget. brahmos at mach 3. range 300 miles. cost, only $3 million each.

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. I read from another forum that India offered to the Phil. government a proposal to produce Brahmos missiles in this country. I don't know when this was offered. Probably during GMA's term. One thing is certain. The govt turned it down.

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    2. This would be more cost effective than jet fighters and frigates which we also need but the combination of these 3 systems would surely pose considerable hardship for any intruder or aggressor.

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    3. Even if DND has budget to buy Brahmos missiles, the buyer has to be cautious with these material because it lacks of "Proven Track Record".
      If I recall 2 years ago, Brahmos missile failed to demonstrate to hit a moving object. However, they have high success rate with stationary object. That means, you have to ask your target not to move so I can hit you.

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    4. In addition, DND will not buy missiles and shoot down all probable threats within Phil EEZ and DND is not dumb to repeat mistakes of Russia in the 80's. http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Korean_Air_Lines_Flight_007

      They shoot down civilian commercial airliner w/o proper authentication if Friend or Foe aircraft.

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    5. A mix of BRAHMOS MISSILES and stealthy SUBMARINES sounds like a good start for the PHILIPPINES to provide NATIONAL SECURITY in waters of the archipeligo. However with good maritime reconnaisance aircraft and space satellites a mistaken targeting of enemy vessels would not occur, Also, the COMMUNIST SOVIET RUSSIAN shoot down of the KOREA AIRLINES FLIGHT 007 over near SAKHALIN ISLAND in 1983 occured after the Soviet Russian Interceptor Pilot made a positive identification of the airliner. The shoot down order cam from Moscow.

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    6. BRAHMOS MISSILE idea is great. Makes MONEY and MILITARY sense. Unfortunately, weak bureaucratic minds may not be able to comprehend this idea.

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  51. Off topic sabi ng dnd ang cost ng brv missile option sa fa-50 ay 1 billion peso per jet wow that more than 22 million dollar thats more than the cost of kfir block 60. Korean scam i bet.

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. I think it's just a matter of someone in the DND saying something without conducting due diligence and research.

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    2. Its not just the missiles that makes a BVR upgrade expensive. Its more on the sensors/radar, structural reinforcement, electronics, power sources and electrical components, etc. The missiles alone would not cost that much.

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    3. Ang cost ng certification for the bvr would be from 800 million and 1.3 billion. Figures quoted by dnd were accurate

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    4. This is an estimate quote received by the DND per aircraft. It can still go up or down depending on the deal.

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  52. OT: According to Jane's US congress has authorize the sale 4 OHP frigate to Taiwan, this could have been sold or given to PN if only they have the budget to operate it. and would have been more capable than the WHEC & a good force multiplier.

    http://www.janes.com/article/36564/us-house-approves-frigate-sale-to-taiwan

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. The budget has always been the problem with the AFP's modernization.

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    2. The Taiwanese have been requesting OHPs for a long time now. They have the infrastructure, experience, and budget to acquire, operate, and maintain them.

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  53. Good day Sir Max, jst want to gain knowledg frm a defense expert like u: Q: when we say that an aircraft' airframe has 10,000 hrs limit, does it literally mean that it has10k flying hrs, in xcess thereof transforms it into "flying coffin", & therefore it has to be retired?...tnx

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    Replies
    1. No. But it also depends on the user if it wants to increase the lifespan of the aircraft. These limits are given by the manufacturer but it will depend on how the aircraft was maintained by the owner, as there are some cases that aircraft won't reach its designed lifespan due to poor maintenance.

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  54. I have observed that our government is only buying any weapons systems for the AFP. If we are to use a single model ASW helicopter as our standard, I think it's better to 100% license-manufacture them in the Philippines so we can increase the number of Units our PN requires year after year & a continuous supply of replacement parts will always be available. And use it as a starting platform for developing improved & up-graded versions. We can do the same for F-16s, M-4 rifles, MPACs, Standard SAMs, AAMs & ASMs so we can be more self-reliant and create more jobs.

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  55. max defense sorry for my question medyo out of topic toh diba yung AFP Modernization Act is first 5 years 75 billion tapos nadagdagan pa ata naging 85 billion.sinasabi ng karamihan phase 1 palang toh.so ibig sabihin sa 2017-2022 iba naman i mean mas malaki na yung budget i know it depends on political will pero kung meron political will..will the budget will become bigger? dahil phase 2 tapos the last is phase 3 thanks !

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    Replies
    1. What we currently see is Phase 1 of 3. So expect 2 more phases in the next administrations. It will depend now on the willingness of the next president to spend for the AFP and DND, so even if there is an allocation per law, if the next president does not give importance to it then it will just turn to dust like what happened between 1995 to 2010.

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    2. Phase 1 = Credible
      Phase 2 = Incredible
      Phase 3 = Respectable
      Kaya wag basta basta boboto. Sino sino ba ang candidates for the next presidency?

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  56. Good day Sir Max,What happen to Additional C-130s for the Philippine Air Force? what happen to budget allocation and when will the bidding start? i though it will be added in the 2014 National Budget but until now there's no report about the bidding.thanks.

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Wait for a few more weeks, let's see what's in store from the US.

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  57. Hope we get another WHEC. The GdP class should at least consist of three ships. I wonder when they will be upgraded. Haven't read anything about the Alcaraz's new gun so I'm not hoping about the missile system. Yet.

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    Replies
    1. The new 25mm guns are not really a game changer for the PN, so it's actually nothing really but just an over-publicized effort.

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    2. I understand that it's not a game changer or anything like that. I just want to see at least a new gun on our ship. I know someday our GdP class frigates will look like the (upgraded) USCGC Mellon.

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  58. sir may anti aircraft po ba yung marines natin na naka station sa ayungin?and would you think our afp can handle the situation to counter chinas blocked in our supply ship? would it advisable for our coast guard to visit the ayungin regularly so china will aware that we are active in patrolling our eez along ayungin?

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. No idea if those 40mm AA guns fitted on the Sierra Madre are still operational. Can handle or not will depend on how the AFP would treat the threat. The point that they were able to pass through before means that they can do it again if the Chinese don't make additional measures. The PCG SHOULD regularly visit our claims as part of their duty, I wonder why they don't.

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    2. Hi Sir Max, relative to your last sentence above mentioned ..."The PCG SHOULD regularly visit our claims as part of their duty, I wonder why they don't." its very interesting because everybody is talking about modernizing the AFP and vis aviz the Philippine Coast Guard which at peace time should secure our EEZ by utilizing its San Juan Class - Tenex made vessels of which we spent millions of Pesos of the Tax payers money to rehabilitate in able to protect the interest of our state and the fishermen at our EEZ. There again the Loan with Japan for 10 patrol boats and also with the French government for some PCG ships....its a wake cup call to our government that is being ridiculed by foreign forces such as China...in its own EEZ.

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    3. Hi Brontoc Tabuk, are you from Northern Luzon? Anyway, I have been observing the PCG, and they are almost completely absent from the KIG and Scarborough for the past year. No deployments, no sovereignity patrols. Was it because of budget? Instruction from above? Who knows. Also look at the procurement plans of the PCG, nothing on large patrol cutters that can match CCG ships used in the WPS. The Japanese boats are far smaller than the CCG ships and recent announcements show that they would ve deployed more inside the archipelago waters and not on disputed areas. I might be discussing this further in a separate blog entry.

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    4. Its a pity that we have a naval graduate at DOTC and yet not much has happened at DOTC. I blame more his predecessor, too much analysis no execution just look at their PPPs which have been in the drawing board for sooooooo long, its only now being executed. No visionary at all at DOTC since the beginning of this administration, seems they don't see their role in the enforcement of our foreign policy and sovereignity. Compare DND vs what DOTC has done, DND is miles and miles ahead of DOTC. For those who have headed DOTC, Mar and Abaya, politics is their priority and sovereignity is last. Freddie

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    5. So lets make sure we do not have an indecisive president (teka-teka) or a president who before wanted to make amends with China, now posturing and posing with the marines that returned from Ayungin. Beware of the wolf in sheep's clothing. Hopefully we will have other choices. Freddie

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  59. Alam ko contract is sign na ang fa-50 kayalang nghihinayang ako sa kfir block 60+ mantakin nyo up to date ang evionic tapos aesa pa radar tapos kasama na litening pod tapis ung gps at laser bomb at anti ship missile mula sa rafael ay intgrated na fox only 20 million dollar.wow san kapa makabili nito......kasi daw ang airframe luma at hydro mechanical ang flight control......ang akin ay what kills is the evionics, radar at weapons system yan maibibigay ng kfir......as for defensive measure ay may desenteng chaff and flare at ecm naman ang kfir.

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. The offer is still up. Although it may find itself against other offers from Saab and Lockheed Martin which already started their push for an MRF deal with the DND.

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    2. ang panget lang dito sa kfir block 60+ is matagal gagamitin ng airforce toh.so sobrang magiging obsolete toh,oka lang sana kung gagamitin ng 5 years eh pero malamang gagamitin ito ng 20 years actually 3rd gen fighter pa toh na ginawa atang 4th gen alam ko mura yung offer pero mas maganda ata mag invest tayo sa mas magandang aircraft like gripen ng,f16 at f-18 na talagang mas okay pa kung may budget mas okay sana yung fifth generation pero malabo yun..kasi next decade 5th generation na halos lahat so iwan naman tayo.

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  60. Now even the speaker of the house and the congressman from isabela is supporting a backdoor channel to negotiate with China. Don't they know by doing so they are sabotaging the case we filed with the United Nations. These are really stupid idiots or the Chinese lapdogs are at work again! Freddie

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  61. Sir max, any reaction to Mr Anonymous April 15, 2014 (12:01AM) re failure to choose by our AFP-DND of Israel's KFIR inspite of its avionics-capabilities & juicy package?

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. It was not chosen for a simple reason: it can't be a lead in fighter trainer, which is what the PAF is really looking for. The combat capability on the FA-50 was an added bonus to the deal. Besides, the Kfir is still being pushed to the DND by Israel and the DND has not shut its door on the offer yet.

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    2. Jst a ff up question Sir: wud KFIR stil has a chance to be procured by AFP after having all 12 FA-50 delivered & operated? Bcoz it myt be viewd as back approach frm 4th Gen to3rd Gen...tnx

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  62. Silend month of AFP modernization?

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  63. hi sir max. I just to verify if this true.

    https://ph.news.yahoo.com/philippine-air-force-acquires-8-f-22-raptor-065737879.html

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Look at the posted date. You've been fooled, it was an April Fools Day news.

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  64. Hello Sir Max: this may sound hypothetical but I only need ur thoughts. There are about 4-6 Hamilton class to be retired w/i the nxt few months or years. Shud all these r ofered by Pres Obama to PH in his coming visit & for EDC @ cost similar to Alcaraz or maybe less, wud it be wise to accept all or get 1 or 2 but request for other military hardware instead esp air assets? Assuming we get all, do we hav enaf technical people to operate all of them simultaneously?

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  65. Max, I have read a comment from another blog...

    "These 2 AW159 ASW choppers is a good buy for us. Not only can it drop torpedoes on enemy subs, it can fire missiles on ships, act as decoy for our ships who are being attact, and not to mention serving as an OTHT platform for the missile-armed MPACs.

    I also expect the AW109 to work in tandem with our soon-to-be-acquired P-3 orion.

    In fact, both platforms are critical in the WPS situation. We need to detect submarines, especially those who are supporting the Chinese white vessels in the stand-off area. If an enemy sub is detected, not only is this a sovereign violation of our territory, it will also violate the white-on-white principle of engagement.

    The situation suddenly becomes a military problem because the Chinese white ships can be interpreted as under the command or an extension of the military vessel, the PLAN sub. We can then ‘legally’ call in the our navy to reinforce the stand-off, or better yet, ask for some help from US navy ships stationed in the country by virtue of our MDT."

    What is your specific opinion about this 2 ASW chopper purchase in relation to west phil sea problem?

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  66. 2 asw helicopters wont provide much difference in coverage. You dont need those now. Manpower is cheap and plentiful for you why dont u buy some second hand fishing boats and install sonars on them. You will get more coverage that way. U cannot think like a developed military, at your baby stage with limited resources you must be innovative. Btw if you guys want to be serious about defence you should introduce the draft so you lower your wage bill. That way there is more funds for assets.

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. 2 is not the final number. This is the initial number. As the PN doesnt have ASW helicopters, this is where it starts as it plans to get as much as 18 following their roadmap. If it doesnt get these helicopters, whats the point of building new ships as well? These 2 helicopters are very important to complement the new frigates. Your proposal for fishing boat / sonar platforms were already considered by the PN even during my time with them, and there are actually more proposals that have been coming up recently with the reestablishment of the NRDC.

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    2. Why use boat, use our strategic Island position to put our stategic underwater surveillance capability using hydrophones put this on choke points for ASW than with torpedo weapons on our Island and with integration to air platform and sea platforms for redundancy of surveillance and identification. We must have a dedicated ASW , EWS and MCM platform. Boat structurally is not reliable on high sea or open sea.

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    3. Hydrophones and other similar assets are actually part of the NRDC's upcoming projects under Project "Ilalim". Prototypes are reportedly already underway.

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    4. Underway, really? I think to have that capability acquisition than transfer of technology. Subsurface technology warfare equipment is far more complex than surface technology. Sometimes when we report things it must doable. Who and what country is offering that technology transfer? Do we have pull of experts and engineers and scientists. Do we have our own electronics company to invest in nationalism ways. Common this is strategic planning that involves huge resources.

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    5. Subsurface technology has been out there for more than 70 years. Those who attended the Triad Meeting recently have already the basic technologies that is good enough to start with. Tech transfer is only needed for further advanced technology, and there are already countries and foreign companies who expressed interest in providing the technology to local companies. MaxDefense might discuss the matter in a future blog entry of what is already in the PN's hands when it is cleared to do so. The current project proposals handed over to these companies to start with might surprise everyone here.

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    6. "might surprise everyone here" i'm curious now.. >.<

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  67. i come across this article from iai its interesting coz all along kfir(levi project) is a fly by wire fighter jet.
    Lear Siegler/MBT Fully Digital Flight Control System

    The Lear Siegler/MBT fully digital flight control system for the Lavi had quadruplex redundancy with stability augmentation, and had no mechanical backup. It compromised two boxes, with two digital channels built into each box. The twin-box configuration hinged on the survivability issue, which was given great emphasis. If one was damaged, the other would provided sufficient control authority to regain base. Each digital channel had associated with it an analogue channel that could have take over its function in the event of a failure. The design total failure rate was not greater than 1 in 107 hours. The program was launched in October 1982, and production deliveries would began in 1988.

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  68. I am much worried with the ayungin shoal. china is much more aggressive to grab ayungin in all ways. better for philippine coast guard to patrol regularly those area whether it will going to face or not those china coast guard atleast we have already a sierra madre who stationed in that area. otherwise china will compliment to patrol. we have also encourage our fisherman to fish near ayungin shoal and sabina and it is one of the most strategy to counter china aggressiveness. how about the la tapaguese whats the news?

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  69. Itching for a new blog. April has not been a "productive" month for AFP modernization. Not much news, although I read that STX France has been given the chance to present their product. I have a question sir Max. Why can't we just buy two frigates from two companies? If I were to choose, I'd pick Navantia and DSME. The Royal Moroccan Navy bought only one FREMM Frigate, the Mohammed VI, from DCNS.

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. It's like saying we buy 1 FA-50 and 1 M-346 as training aircraft. It's not practical to have 2 different frigate models if you only have 1 ship each. Morocco bought 1 FREMM because the Sigmas can't do what the FREMM can do, but they can only afford 1 ship. But the Moroccans have the option to buy more FREMM as budget becomes available.

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  70. What about the SH-2G Super Sea Sprite-Helicopter that is being used right now by the Royal New Zealand Air force, Egyptian Navy and Polish Navy. Here's the Promotional Video
    https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=SEDqoFyalN0

    Here's the Specs as well
    http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Kaman_SH-2G_Super_Seasprite

    Here's the Company page
    http://www.kaman.com/aerospace/aerosystems/air-vehicles-mro/products-services/sh-2g-super-seasprite/

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Following DND rules re. procurement of assets, the Super Sea Sprite may not be qualified because it is already out of production. The Lynx Wildcat may have a better chance that this.

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  71. http://dnd.gov.ph/transparency/procurement/DND_BAC/Invitation_to_bid/Anti-Submarine%20Helicopter%20Acquisition%20Project.pdf

    i thought the bidding will start on April 24.. :(

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Reportedly there were some clarifications that the PN made with some of the prospective suppliers.

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  72. Info from another blogspot, there will be a re-bid on May 20, wonder why?

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Its not a rebid. Its the 1st stage pre bid conference schedule. There were no biddings for the ASW helicopter before other than this upcoming one.

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  73. Hi Max, based on the Technical Specs published by DND, can you do an update on your blog which candidate helicopter will most probably fit the bid requirements.

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  74. Sir 2 firms bought bid documents for the ASW helo as of May 21,2014. here's the link

    http://www.philstar.com/headlines/2014/05/21/1325481/2-firms-join-bidding-2-anti-submarine-helicopters

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    Replies
    1. look like sirkosky is not interested in bid

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  75. News on the PN's ASW Helo's

    1st stage bidding moved to June 24 from June 3. Still 2 firms confirmed who bought bid documents, Bell Helicopters and AgustaWestland. It seems Sikorsky doesn't find the project profitable. Or maybe the MH-60R is just way over budget? Your thoughts on this?

    http://www.janes.com/article/38958/philippines-extends-deadline-for-asw-helicopter-bidding

    Paul

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  76. Hi Max,

    I wish to learn about military training and simulation specifically with respect to Philippines defence forces. Will you be able to provide some insights? I can call you at a time of your convenience. please let me know.

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Philippine Navy Modernization Projects

Philippine Air Force Modernization Projects