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Friday, July 11, 2014

Its a Cat Fight for the Philippine Navy's ASW Helicopter Acquisition Program

The Philippines' Department of National Defense (DND) has updated the bid information on the Philippine Navy (PN) requirement for new Anti-Submarine Warfare (ASW) helicopters. Its latest Supplemental Bid Bulletin shows the DND's replies to queries sent by PT Dirgantara Indonesia (Indoensian Aerospace) - Airbus Helicopters (formerly Eurocopter) joint venture, and AgustaWestland.


The AgustaWestland AW159 Wildcat naval helicopter, one of the expected entries for the PN's ASW Helicopter acquisition project.
Photo taken from Helihub website.


Although no information was provided in the media, it is expected that the PTDI-Airbus Helicopters venture will offer the Airbus AS565SB Panther naval helicopter, and AgustaWestland with the AW159 Wildcat. PTDI-Airbus recently won some tender projects with the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP), particularly with the Philippine Air Force (PAF) with the supply of 2 NC-212 Aviocar for the Lift Lift Fixed Wing Aircraft program, Airbus with the supply of 3 C-295 transport aircraft for the Medium Lift Fixed Wing Aircraft program, and AgustaWestland for the supply of 8 AW109E Power helicopters for the Attack Helicopter program, aside from the 5 AW109E Power naval helicopters for the Philippine Navy.

It was earlier announced in media reports that Bell Helicopters was also interested in this project, and it was expected by many that Sikorsky Aircraft, and even NHIndustries, may also show some interest in the project. Should these 3 other companies try to join, it was expected that Sikorsky may offer the S-70B Seahawk, NHIndustries with the NH90NFH, and Bell Helicopters may use a modified B412EP similar to its previous 412EP Sentinel from the late 1990s. But according to MaxDefense sources, all 3 helicopter manufacturers are not expected to join the tender, with Sikorsky and NHIndustries due to "budget vs product costs concerns", and Bell due to difficulty in making an offer based on their product line up to meet the DND/PN requirements.


The Airbus Helicopters' AS-565 Panther naval helicopter in service with the French Marine Nationale. PTDI of Indonesia  is Airbus' partner for the PN project, and has a license to produce the said helicopters in their Indonesian facility.
Photo taken from Helihub website.


With only PTDI-Airbus and AgustaWestland submitting queries, this further cements the idea that only these 2 manufacturers will be expected to submit a bid for the project, making this project a Panther vs Wildcat "cat fight".

MaxDefense was able to get the Technical Specifications released by the DND for this project, so called "Supply and Delivery of Two (2) Anti Submarine Helicopters to the Philippine Navy with Munitions, Mission Essential Equipment, and ILS". A summary of the said specs are as follows:

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Technical Specifications Summary:

General Requirement:

- 2 brand new units (aircraft, systems, and components);
- Certified for both Anti Submarine Warfare (ASW) and Anti-Surface Warfare (ASuW) capability;
- Crew of 2 pilots, passenger crew as Tactical Coordinator (TACCO) and Sensor Operator (SENSO) in ASW configuration, or 6 passengers in utility;
- Dual Pilot Control System and Automatic Flight Control System, 4-axis Autopilot System;
- Certified for Single-Pilot Instrument Flight Rules (SPIFR), and for night VFR operations using Generation III Night Vision Goggles (NVG);
- Cruising Speed of at least 120 knots in full ASW configuration with munitions;
- Maximum Take-off Weight (MTOW) of not more than 12,000 kgs.
- Payload of at least 1,800 kgs.;
- Endurance of at least 2 hours (revised from original requirement of 2 hours and 30 minutes) in full ASW configuration with munitions;
- Range of at least 240 nmi (revised from original requirement of 300 nmi.), in full ASW configuration with munitions;
- Retractable dimensions to fit ship hangar with dimensions at 14.3m (lenght) x 9.8m (width)  x 5.6m (height);
- To include manual or automatic main rotor blade and/or tail folding kits necessary for retraction;
- Equipped with Recovery, Assist, Securing and Traversing (RAST) system;
- Utilized for naval/maritime operations by country of origin or by at least 2 other countries;
- 730 days delivery schedule from issuance of Notice to Proceed (previously from issuance of Letter of Credit),

Airframe:
- External painting in matte grey with PN markings;
- Wheel type landing gears;

Powerplant:
- Twin turbine Full Authority Digital Electronic Control (FADEC) engines, capable of hot and humid operation
- Engine performance allows one-engine inoperative capability in full ASW configuration

ASW and ASuW System:
Acoustic System
- capable to detect, localize, classify, and track submarines and surface targets based upon data derived from active and passive accoustic sensors;
- Tethered (A rope or chain) active multi-frequency (medium to low frequency) sonar;
- Tethered Sonar may be integrated with sonobuoy processor, with capability to process sonar and sonobuoy data simultaneously;
Weapons and Munitions:
- Equipped with interchangeable/removabale Armament Control and Dispensing (ASCD) System for munitions, armaments, sonobuoys, and stores for smoke markers and Signal Underwater Sound (SUS);
- Capacity of each station for future weapons up to 600 lbs (272 kgs) per station;
- Allowable to upload/download external weapons while aircraft has rotors turning;
- Provisions for self defense stores including chaffs and flares.
Torpedo & Torpedo Launcher:
- To include 2 removable Torpedo launchers/dispensers per helicopter;
- To include 6 Torpedoes with warshot & exercise head per helicopter;
- Torpedo will be the same as those to be acquired for the new PN frigate, to wait for finalized technical specifications of the frigate (addendum as per new SBB);
- Torpedo should be lightweight, impact detonated, with sub-surface target homing capability in active/passive/mixed acoustic modes; with target range of not less than 10 kms., seawater battery operated with electrically rechargeable power source, and to include Flight in Air Material (FIAM) gears.
Air-to-Surface Missile & Launcher:
- To include 2 air-to-surface missiles per helicopter;
- Missile should weigh not more than 150 kgs., with a warhead weight of not less than 20 kgs., a range of not less than 20 kms., and must be equipped with an internal guidance system.
- Any missile system will do as long as it complies with the requirements above (addendum as per new SBB).
Heavy Machine Guns:
- To include 2 50-caliber Heavy Machine Guns, interchangeable and removal, either mounted on both sides, with 2 spare barrels per helicopter or pod mounted with pilot control firing mechanism
- To include 5,000 rounds ammunition per helicopter.
Radar:
- Optimized for surveillance, detection, classification and tracking of surface targets from minimum target range of 100 yards, to maximum of at least 120 nmi, at the service ceiling of 10,000 ASL, through 360 degrees;
- Capable of over-land surveillance, and supporting navigation and weather avoidance.
EO/IR - Forward looking Infrared (FLIR):
- Passively detect any Fast Patrol Boat / Fishing Boat sized vessel at a minimum range of 15 nmi in unobscured conditions;
- Provide imagery to classify by platform type any fishing boat sized vessel at a minimum range of 5 nmi. in unobscured conditions;
- Provide imagery to identify a platform at a slant range of 1,000 ft. in obscured conditions;
- Compact with multi-sensor system

Other Features:
- Identification Friend or Foe (IFF) / Selective Identification Feature (SIF)
- Mission Data Management System
- Tactical Data Exchange and Recording System, compatible to Tactical Data Link 16;
- Portable Down-link Receiver, compatible and ready for installation on and surface ship or ground station specified by the PN, and must be interoperable with the installed data link system of the helicopter;
- To include External Rescue Hoist with Strap, removable, with minimum capacity of 600 lbs.;
- To include Cargo Hooks with net and sling, minimum capacity of 500 kgs.

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From the specifications above, there is a strong indication that the PN and DND used the AgustaWestland AW159 Wildcat as their base platform. MaxDefense sources says that the PN already made previous discussions with several naval helicopter suppliers, including those joining the tender and those MaxDefense believed to be joining, before the tender was started. There are several items worth discussing on the specifications that will broaden up information on this acquisition project.

On General Requirements:
Both the naval Wildcat and Panther have an MTOW of less than 12,000 kgs, with the Wildcat a little heavier of the 2 helicopters at 6,000 kgs., and the Panther even less than half of the requirement at 4,500 kgs. But for payload, the Panther may have problems meeing the required 1,800 kgs. minimum weight, as the aircraft's specified weight only allows around 1,600 kgs. Being a smaller aircraft, the Panther is at a disadvantage on this regard against the larger Wildcat, including a possible technical issue on the required range and endurance in full load configuration. 


Dimensional drawing of the AgustaWestland AW159 Wildcat.
Photo taken from Globalsecurity website.


Both helicopters are equipped with a 4-axis autopilot and SPIFR systems, and RAST system. Both can also fit the required hangar dimensions in folded configuration. The navalized Panther is in service with the French Navy and several other navies like Israel, Morocco, United Arab Emirates, and Mexico. The Wildcat is a newcomer being a different aircraft from the older Super Lynx, and is now in service with the British Royal Navy, and was ordered by the South Korean Navy for its Incheon-class frigates.


The Israeli Navy operates the Panther from their Sa'ar V corvettes, and are actively used for surveillance and maritime patrol duties in extension of the corvette's capabilities.

On Airframe and Powerplant:
The competing helicopters are both compliant with the engine and landing gear requirements, being both powered by twin turbine engines with FADEC. Point of interest would be the paint scheme, which appears to follow the one used by the PN's AW109E Power naval helicopters.


The external paint scheme for the new ASW helicopters will probably follow the scheme used for the PN's AW109E Power naval helicopters, shown above.


On Weapons and Sensors Systems:
Both helicopters are capable of doing ASW, ASuW, and SAR missions, with only differences on the specifications of the systems they are using. It is expected that the Wildcat will be using the Thales Compact Flash dipping sonar similar to what the South Korean AW159s will be getting. Aside from a tethered dipping sonar system, the specs also require a surface scanning radar system that can be used for surveillance and targeting, and as an extension of its host ship's sensors system. The data link standard was previously on hold for further announcement, but the SBB has indicated that the PN would use the Data Link 16 standard. The Portable Downlink Receiver is an interesting requirement, which was required to be compatible to the data link system and is ready to install to the PN's naval ships and ground stations. MaxDefense believes that the PN was specifically looking at the Security Enhanced Data Transfer Unit, which has this ability and is compatible with Tactical Data Link 16 network.


An illustration of what the Wildcat can carry.


These helicopters are also capable of carrying chaffs and flares, and both can carry heavy machine guns as required, although the AS565 Panther appears to have difficulty of having them on door pintle mounts and may require gun pods, which reduces the number of external stores like additional ordinances that the helicopter can carry.

The Panther and Wildcat can both carry the required torpedoes, but will be dependent on the actual torpedo type and made that the PN chooses for its new frigates. The Panther can carry the US Mark 46 and French/Italian Whitehead A.244/s torpedoes, while the Wildcat is designed initially to carry the British Sting Ray torpedo, although AgustaWestland is currently making the aircraft capable of carrying the MU90 and other similar Western torpedoes. The torpedo's propulsion requirement for a seawater battery operated type may point to the MU90, as the rest of possible torpedo contenders use other means.

The BAE Sting Ray torpedo.
Photo taken from Navweaps.com.



The missile is where an edge of the Wildcat over the Panther shines out. The Wildcat currently carries the British Sea Skua ASM while the Panther carries the French AS 15TT. Both missiles meet and exceed the required missile and warhead weight minimum requirements. But for the PN's specified requirement that the range must be at least 20 kms. will keep the AS 15TT at bay due to its operational range of only 15 kms., 25% short of the minimum range requirement. The Sea Skua even exceeds the requirement with an operational range of 25 kms. 


The Sea Skua, above shown being loaded on a RN naval helicopter, meets the requirements set by the DND and PN for the helicopter-launched ASM acquisition together with the ASW helicopters.


A naval Panther from the UAE military equipped with 4 AS 15TT missiles, 2 on each side.


The Wildcat also benefits from an ongoing future missile requirement specified by the British Armed Forces, which includes the already available Thales Light Multirole Missle, although both the Panther and Wildcat shares the advantage of having the MBDA Future Anti-Surface Guided Weapon (FASGW) to replace both the British Sea Skua and the French AS 15TT. But while the PN requires a missile that is already being sold, which makes the Wildcat sit atop the Panther in the missile requirement. 

The only problem now is if the Sea Skua is still being produced by BAE Systems. If not, the British government may allow to provide pre-owned missiles from RN stocks, while the PN may opt to shift to the FASGW upon availability.


Additional Information related to the PN's New Frigates:
The additional information provided by the Supplemental Bid Bulletin also included tidbits of information that pertains to the incoming new frigates of the PN. Some previously missing information were answered and may shed important information on the ships.

The frigate specifications did not provide the exact data link system to be used, which is now known as the Tactical Data Link 16 network. This was probably decided upon by the PN between the release of the frigate and ASW specifications. It is interesting to note the the US, Australian, and Japanese military, NATO and most partner nations use this network, allowing inter-operability and joint use of tactical information. The SBB also shows that there is a possibility that most major, if not all, Philippine Navy ships will be installed with the Data Link 16 network.

It also confirms that the PN has not yet decided on the torpedo type until the ASW Helicopter SBB was released. 


Sure Winner?
With these information, it looks quite clear that the PN is going for the AW159 Wildcat, although PTDI-Airbus and any other manufacturers will be given a chance to match or exceed AgustaWestland's newest baby either by the specs or by the price. So far MaxDefense sources confirmed that the navalized Panther's unit price is several million dollars cheaper than the Wildcat, although in terms of capability, the Wildcat exceeds the Panther in several attributes. Add to that the earlier win of AgustaWestland to supply smaller naval helicopters to the PN in the form of 5 AW109E Power helicopters, which gave them an advantage in terms of supply chain, training, maintenance, and cooperation agreements.

So is the DND and PN handing the silver platter to AgustaWestland? Although it looks like it, until the bidding proceeds and all bid submissions are opened, validated, and passed the post bid qualifications, we cannot really say. There are instances that manufacturers fail the post-bid qualifications, although the chances are slim. 

MaxDefense will be following this major acquisition program with updates on the bottom part of the blog to be added later on, and more information on the comments and replies that will mount up later on.

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UPDATES:
===============
October 15, 2014:
With the Anti-Submarine Helicopter acquisition going through a second attempt for the first stage bid, the schedule for bid submission and opening was again moved, from October 21, 2014 to October 28, 2014. This was done due to a request from AgustaWestland and PT Dirgantara Indonesia seeking clarifications on the bidding documents provisions.

The official document from the DND can be found here:
http://www.dnd.gov.ph/transparency/procurement/DND_BAC/Supplemental_Bid/SBB%20NR%20DND-AFP-PN-R-ASHAP-01-14.pdf


In this reset of the bidding, there are no definite bidders yet, although it was reported before that those who showed interest or acquired the bid documents include AgustaWestland, PT Dirgantara Indonesia (PTDI), Israel Aircraft Industries (IAI), and a joint venture between Bell Helicopter Asia and Serpenair Group. It is interesting to note the absence of Airbus Helicopters, which showed interest on the project and submitted a bid for the bidding's first attempt. It is possible that they are teaming up with PT DI, which was recently granted a license to locally build the AS565 Panther helicopter including its ASW variant. 

It would be safe to assume that AgustaWestland will still offer the AW159 Wildcat, while it is expected that Bell Helicopters will field a navalized variant of the Bell 412. It is still unclear if IAI will submit an entire bid, or will be joining a specific aircraft manufacturer as a system supplier or integrator.

131 comments:

  1. I'm concerned with the "at least 20 km" Anti-Ship Missile requirement of the PN ASW helicopters. How can this be effective against the longer range of modern missile CIWS of naval "bully" ships?

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    1. Needs for longer ranged strikes will be the duty of the warship where the helicopters are attached. The helicopter can even provide over the horizon targetting for the ship's missile.

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    2. We must have air to surface missile aboard ASW which battled proven and with high probability of hitting the taget which must be part of the.specifications and also to include torpedo base on the existing records the defense.had during testing of the missile.and.torpedo of the already delivered ASW in their proponent. We usually put a generic requirements without putting importants on our environment operating envrionment vis-a-vis with the threat in todays ASW warfare environment. I hope for the best.

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    3. Still the helicopter has no early warning system against missile with radar, IR and LASER guidance wherein this is a very critical system in terms of the survivability of the ASW helicopter. Even you have a provisions for chaff and flares how would the operator will detect and react immediately to an incoming threats from SAM specifically hypersonic without the former system I have mentioned. Knock knock Knock!!! Are we blind? I hope also sir Max open the mind of the technical working group.

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  2. is the bidding for ASW helicopters already started?

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    1. Companies will submit their bids on July 15.

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  3. Although i understand why they keep moving the bids date, I'm still frustrated. hahahaha

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  4. Aw, it's sad that Sikosky can't join this project

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    1. It's still not the end for Sikorsky. Future MaxDefense entries will explain why.

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    2. Are they involve in other AFP projects?

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    3. ohh I'm looking forward to that. (y)

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    4. but Sir Max, is there a possibility that Agusta will offer the Lynx?

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    5. Offering the Super Lynx might have negative impact for AgustaWestland, who already confirmed that the ABC and specs provided by the DND & PN fits the newer Wildcat. AW is looking for more customers for their new Wildcat to make it marketable for other countries, as only the navies of UK and SK have ordered so far. Making the Philippines as its 3rd customer is beneficial for both the PN and AW.

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    6. The present ASW helicopter have something missing on the technical specifications specifically on the soft kill defense wherein this is a ver essential on its survival where being attack. There is no early warning radar and laser warning system as part of its combat system. I hope the technical working group will look into this. I am a former naval officer a concern filipino citizen. Let us help our DND to inform them what is missing to and must have a really a deterrent and reliable platform.

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    7. The managing director of AgustaWestland's SE Asia office confirmed the AW159 offer in April 2014:

      https://docs.google.com/viewer?url=http://www.gbp.com.sg/DailyNews/2014/DSA2014/Day1/DailyNews%20DSA%202014_opf_files/pdfs/DSA2014-day1_18.pdf

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  5. Sir Max do you think Sikorsky would be interested with the bidding? If so, which aircraft would be suitable for such role: The SH-60 Seahawk or the Lynx Wildcat?

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    1. The blog entry above already answered your question.

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    2. Sikorsky has a pavillion at ADAS 2014. Can we expect photos and Q&As with the exhibitors, Max?

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    3. ADAS 2014 is not open to the general public. I won't be there either. So lets see if we have some sources that can provide info.

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    4. Sikorsky's entries, The SH-60 Seahawk is very good and proven already. However it is already aging, and maintenance cost will rise high.While the Lynx Wildcat is a newcomer and is not yet proven but is has the luxury of less maintenance cost and be expected to last more years. In my Opinion here the DnD is fore seeing the future, what is more suitable for our unlikely future if the government doesn't continue this modernizations. The wildcat would be more suitable for years to come but undeniably the Seahawk is a much more better platform in doing such roles.

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    5. Sikorsky's dilemma may stem from the missile requirement. The only missiles integrated on the S-70B are either too heavy (Penguin, Maverick) or lack the range (Hellfire) to meet the DND's specs. The expense of integrating a missile like Spike-NLOs may have driven the S-70B's cost beyond the ABC.

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  6. South Korea selected Spike-NLOS for its Wildcats. The Philippines won't need to pay for integration or wait for FASGW-H if they do the same..

    http://defense-update.com/20140106_seoul-equip-new-maritime-helicopters-israeli-spike-missiles.html

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  7. US defense maker only after are of those big ticket contract like multiple billion dollar....they snub those petty contract like this....so what....

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    1. i agree with you Sir..that is why I must prefer other manufacturer such as Agusta and Airbus...Im hoping that someday we will no longer dependent with the United States of our modernization and military hardware like those of Thailand, Malaysia and Vietnam.. Goodluck PAF may you choose the best Helicopter for this project..thanks Mr. President Pnoy...

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    2. US defense contractors cannot snub this order, because every little order now is important to them. The global arms market is not in their favor as more countries are bwcoming arms exporters and manufacturers as well. Sikorsky did not stand a chance with this program because the ABC allocated by the government does not fit the costs of acquiring the Seahawk, plus training, munitions, ILS, etc. But whoever wins this project stands a chance for larger follow on orders considering that the PN is planning to acquire up to 18 units at best.

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    3. Hi, Sir Max, we just hope that President Aquino's successor would continue supporting the AFP modernization for us to establish a truly credible defense. As you have mentioned in one of your comments in another thread, this administration has already surpassed its four predecessors in terms of the Defense program.

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    4. I agree with Sir Max. Lockhead Martin and Boeing is already targeting the commercial side, from planes to cars and electronics. It's because of the decline in orders in these recent years. It's a Vast industry not to mention, the hundreds of companies outside us competing for contracts also. It's just a fair game of whoever meets the required specifications and of course the clients decision on who to choose.

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    5. Need some of those buk

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  9. sir max are you going to make a blog about the israel radar that the dnd is acquiring?

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  10. Sir Max any idea of AW159 Wildcat deal of South Korean Navy? They are going to use the Rafael SPIKE NLOS instead of Sea Skua as per reported by the defense media outlet as the immediate missile. Im a bit curious if there was a provision for the integration for a South Korean made anti-ship missile which is mostly a standard requirement for their new ship and aircraft. And also as per Rafael brochure it does have a smaller warhead and lighter weight compared to Sea Skua but it has also a 25km range.

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    1. The Spike NLOS can also be an optional purchase for the PN should it choose the Wildcat. Although the range is also at around 25km. and weight is even less than the Sea Skua, it has a smaller warhead which is not enough for ships of corvette or OPV size, but enough for light patrol boats or fishing boats.

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  11. Hi Sir Max, I love the title of your blog. Yeah its a Cat fight between 'Wildcat' and 'Panther' . Its an almost even match between the two copters. Whichever entry wins will be good for PN. I would however want the AW159 to win since it is has a lot of potential for further development unlike the Panther. I hope they will not postpone the bidding anymore.

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  12. Sir Max, this helicopters are for the brand new frigates right? why i read in some news that it will be fit in Del Pilar class?

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    1. Sometimes defense-related news reports from the Philippine media must not be taken seriously as most of the reporters do not understand what they are reporting. The 2 new ASW helicopters are for the 2 new frigates. The 2 incoming AW109E Power helicopters that were ordered last year are coming this year for the 2 GdP-class frigates. A folded Wildcat's 13.49m length and a radar-less folded Panther's 12.11m length can't fit the GdP's hangar at 11.8m.

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    2. The article made a mistake. The Wildcats/Panthers will be placed on the brand new frigates.

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  13. Hey max, how about those two new autocannon to be installed on brp alcaraz, any update?

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  14. Nice title max, yeah its a CAT FIGHT !

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  15. How about two winner in frigate aquisition like navantia make one and korean make other one it will shorten the delivery time....if we can sacrifice interoperablity in exchange for fast commissioning.

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    1. Not feasible. Commonality has always been an important aspect in any ship building project with the same capability. If the PN is really in a hurry to acquire more ships, EDA is the right way to go.

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    2. the last thing we need is logistic incompatibility.

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    3. So next time our own naval architect do the design of the ship say we need 2 again then show the design to the two ship builder then the two shop builder make the ship on its own ship yard of course we take note of the sensor and weapon to be put there.

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    4. I hate to break this up to you Anonymous, that our Naval Architects are not that capable of designing those kinds of ships for now. I did not say we're bad at it heck We have many successful Naval Architects, it's just that Naval Architects in the PN is not actually experienced nor made to design such Ships. Our Naval Architects is more experienced in designing Commercial Ships than Warships. I will not say that we can't but arguably We are far left behind in the Defense Industry.

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    5. Kung ganyan talaga ang lakad ng utak walang mararating. Vietnam gumagawa ng patrol boat at corvette. Tapos cla bili ng sensor at weapon cla nlng kakabit. Kng wala lakas loob wala mararating. Hayun tumirik n mata nyo kakahintay sa kanu na kakabit ng auto cannon sa brp alcaraz.

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    6. Hindi natinpwedeng copyahin ang mga design nila. Copyright yan

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    7. I bow down to you Sir, Kaw na magaling. Akala mo siguro madali mag-design pag-walang alam kung anu-ano ang mga armas na ilalagay mey mga measurements yan. yarda ang kadalasan. Di yan yung pwede i-scale sa ruler. Mey Ergonomics pa yan na dapat pag-tuonan ng Pansin. Buoyancy ang pinaka-importanteng ma-achieve sa pag-disenyo ng Barko at yan din yung mahirap i-balanse. At isa pang-mahalaga sa pag-design ay kung ano ang gagamitin na materyales sa pag-gawa. Kaya wag mag-marunong, Pag-aralan ng mabuti. Di yan basta2x. Kaya mas mabuti pa sa ngayon na bumili na lng muna at Pag-aralan paano gumawa. maa-achieve din naman yan kala-unan.

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  16. after acquiring and getting those ships or any other war material sir max that we bought in small amounts, like the pn's light frigate/heavy corvette, can we acquire them again or buy them again as more funds come in without public bidding?

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  17. OT: maybe this is a reason aside from the high cost on why the PH does not buy b.new equipment from the US because of FMS overly long process, I have posted a quote below from this link, http://news.yahoo.com/how-the-u-s--is-letting-russia-beat-them-to-the-punch-on-military-aid-to-iraq-203343350.html

    "U.S. Foreign Military Sales (FMS) program that is overly bureaucratic, unresponsive and vulnerable to political stonewalling. Requests must be approved by both the secretaries of state and defense, and then sent to the Congressional armed services, foreign affairs and appropriations committees, which carefully review the projects. The relevant U.S. ambassador and U.S. military commander for that region must also personally sign off on any proposed sale. Approved recipients of U.S. military equipment under the FMS program must then complete a training course on human rights and humanitarian law, which includes seminars on respect for human rights and civilian authority, rules against torture and gender violence, and laws pertaining to international armed conflict and internal armed conflict."

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    1. Thousands of M-4s from Remington and 8 helicopters from Bell, an American company that manufactures in Canada. Pratt & Whitney, another American company with a Canadian production line, engine supplier for the 412EP, AW109, and C-295, as well as the Super Tucano and all the other competitors in the CAS project. FLIR Systems EO turrets for the AW109s, Harris radios, Silver Ships assault boats. Raytheon AIM-9 and AGM-65 missiles and General Electric F404 jet engines for the FA-50s, an aircraft program in which Lockheed Martin owns a stake. AAV-7, an American design license-built in South Korea. Data Link 16 is an American creation adopted by the rest of NATO. Beechcraft, IOMAX, and several US drone manufacturers competing for procurement contracts.

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  18. where are those report previously by the DND to announce this July the winner of the bidding for the two brand new frigates? A trustworthy and reliable Armed forces that we have... Drawing :(

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    1. July is not yet over. But expect some delays on this. Remember that this is the 1st time the PN is buying a new frigate.

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  19. Calm down. Trust the PN. The acquisition of the new frigates is a technical matter. It needs a careful study which takes time. The PN cannot afford unnecessary defects because of oversight due to rushing things up. It is a multi billion peso project, it needs a careful study. Besides, July is not over yet. Who knows, they might announce before the month ends.

    I know you are just concerned for our country, but you can help more by not spreading words which tend to degrade the integrity of our AFP and DND. That's one thing we can do as civilians to help the men in uniform. Let us trust them and give inspirational words instead so the morale of the AFP will be sky high.

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    1. Maybe the PN is having second thoughts. Those frigates are practically useless againts the neighborhood bullies anyway. The neighbors has subs and the cruise missiles carried by their ships have longer range. The 400+ million USD could be better spent elsewhere - like in the acqusition and development of our own missile defense capabilities.

      Delete
    2. Gotta start from somewhere. PN just need a minimum credible deterrence and doesn't have to match 1:1 their counter party ships.

      Definitely agree on the defense local reliance but R&D is very expensive and AFP will mostly shoulder this budget. Plus the Phil Govt has no problems acquiring assets from all the defense manufacturers and their respective govt. Purchasing still remains cost effective at the projected requirements.

      Delete
    3. No, they are not. They are just utilizing time to carefully study which ship would best fit to the PN's requirements. It is a wise move, cause once the contract is perfected, they cannot just unilaterally undo everything. They cannot just rush things up, because if it results to some defect, for sure the people will crucify them for blowing a multi billion peso project.

      Delete
    4. yeah lets be patient, this is the first time the PN will have this modern ships so don't expect them to rush this but once the PN acquire this ships and have gained experience future frigate acquisitions will be much more faster by then

      Delete
  20. RP-S512 is the aircraft's serial number, so what is the aircraft's model name?

    ReplyDelete
  21. Another expensive and ineffective defense acquisition that should have been better spent on mobile coastal SSM and SAM batteries. These ASW helicopters are easy targets of the opposing forces and won't survive long.

    For ASW, the Navy should have just installed retrievable USV's with sonars on their main naval assets, and neutralized submarines using the likes of ELMA, Bofors 375mm and Russian RBU series.

    The DND Navy is trapped in copying the rich US Navy but with Philippine-sized pockets. They can better learn from the navies of Scandinavia, Iran, North Korea, doing asymetric warfare with their bigger opponents. Even the narco navies of South America and the Middle East militias are doing a better job with their limited budgets.

    We are lost with the present strategy of the DND-AFP that does not cost effectively enhance our national defense, resulting in more US troops to occupy our territories.

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Thank you sir for giving us Pinoys some example of thinking in depth. . THIS IS PROBABLY ONE OF THE MOST IMPORTANT POINTS REGARDING CURRENT AFP STRATEGY. The AFP/PN must assume that they can always hide behind the cover of the mighty US Navy . Then maybe this is the reason that the current big ticket acquisitions wikk be ineffective and could not stand alone by themselves. Hello - US-BULLY trade is approaching 1 TRILLION US DOLLARS annually. So when push comes to shove - Uncle Sam will likely be nowhere to be found.

      Delete
    2. Considering the DND and AFP can cement the continuous effort to modernize its forces following the revised AFP Modernization program + additional funding from the national government and US government defense aid, then we won't expect the PH to be stuck with 2 ASW helicopters and no more. Currently the PN in collaboration with other government agencies and private companies are already developing other technologies that will improve on different defense requirements that needs a mix of cheap and expensive systems to work together.

      Besides, the shipborne ASW systems you mentioned are not rrally effective against subs, as these systems require the ship to be close to the target sub, putting the ship and crew in grave danger. These shipboard systems are defensive in nature and are the last line of defense of a ship being attacked by a submarine. The ASW helicopters are fesigned to HUNT down subs, being the aggressor and not waiting for the sub to get close to the surface warship.

      Delete
    3. I agree to sir max, that 2 ASW helos will compliment the brand new frigates being ordered. besides there is actually a separate plan by the DND to acquire mobile coastal missile batteries, right sir max?

      Delete
    4. I can add for Anonymous

      I'm very concerned for the late and expensive enhancement of our defense position. The fastest way to do this is to enhance present inventory to at the very least very operational condition. Second is to buy existing inventory or EDA equipment married to enhanced local MRO. Third is to buy new equipment. The DND and AFP is doing it in reverse and look what's happening in WPS while we wait years spending much resources.

      Another concern is the choice of South Korea as the source for the main FA and frigate defense systems. The equipment may be good and least cost but South Korea is still on tense war status. Any shootings from the NoKor's large arsenal will most probably wipe out the supply chain for these critical defense systems and neutralize the viability of these for our defense.

      The widening model range of the AFP helicopters is another big concern mostly on the MRO support and cost fronts. The AFP should instead leverage its large Huey inventory and the large worldwide Huey inventory and standardize on it, using present available upgrade paths. All AFP requirements can be met with upgrades of this venerable model. The AFP can even turn it as an exportable defense business.

      Self Reliance model needs to be revived for an affordable strong defense

      Delete
    5. Depending on miniscule US defense aid will just enhance and extend our mendicancy without the owning up to our responsibility of defending ourselves. And not doing the hard choices that we have to make as the 12th largest nation that needs to to grow up yesterday.

      Based on my limited knowledge I don't know of any case where an expensive ASW helo has sunk a sub, but the low cost Swedish ELMA has a possible one sunk sub. Even the ASW helo is a nearby range system with no capability to go out and hunt in wide areas. CIWS are the weapons we can afford to insure the survival of our ships and sailors. Even 20 expensive ASW helos cannot cover the WPS for sub hunting.

      It's the coastal mobile SSM and SAM batteries that can be hidden and transferred among many cheap fortified coastal bastions that will wreak havoc to opponents is what we need. Preferably locally made missiles, and we won't let the US stop us today as they did with the Marcos rocket program in the 1970s.

      Delete
    6. There are concerns that the AFP and DND are not looking for alternative ways to modernize their weapons systems, wherein the easiest way is to go EDA. This has already been pushed to the government by several fronts, including MaxDefense in its own simple way. So far there has been movements on this regard, which includes the upcoming Pohang and additional Hamilton-class ships.

      South Korea and Israel are the most responsive to our needs, and there are already upcoming programs that are not yet announced to the public but will significantly boost the AFP's capability. Although the Koreans are still in a state of war, it is not expected to have a shooting war very soon. They survived 60 war-less years, and with China now giving less support to the North Koreans, a war between the North and South is not as possible as it seems.

      The latest Huey acquisition is just a patch-up solution while the AFP is gearing to buy more modern equipment. Expect more Bell 412EP acquisitions in the coming years. We can't linger on Vietnam-era aircraft tech when the government could actually buy newer equipment for the PAF.

      Delete
    7. MaxDefense was not pushing for a dependency on US aid. If you have not yet noticed, the only thing the DND awarded to a US company in the AFP Modernization are the CWS to Raytheon, and M4 carbine to Remington. All others are awarded to other non-US suppliers. Although the US defense aid is minuscule, it is nothing but a political gesture from the US government. The ELMA system is nothing more but a modern version of the Hedgehog ASW mortars that the PN's WW2 vintage ships used to have. They were designed for littoral ASW operations, and are actually more of a defensive weapon. Even the latest Visby-class corvettes that the Swedes use don not have this weapon anymore.

      I cannot discuss how an ASW helicopter works vis-a-vis a anti-submarine warship and how an ASW-capable ship does its patrols, but CIWS definitely can't kill submarine-launched torpedoes and are not the only weapons systems that a ship needs.

      As for coastal missile systems, they are being considered by the Philippine Army, and was already an approved project. But it can only do 1 thing - shoot at ships, which it may not even do for the next 20 years. It can't do sea control, nor can it do peacetime and HADR missions. You can't put all your eggs on this system alone.

      Delete
    8. Sir Max - I believe the best way the BIG Bully can completely control those reefs is to build/place structures on them - airfields, oil rigs, barracks etc etc.. Now the question is can our ships be able to do "sea control" and deter the big bully from doing their business ? We all know there's very little chance . The point of missile defense is to act as a credible deterrence. You do not have to threaten their ships . Just feed them second thoughts just in case they try to build "houses" on our territory.

      Delete
    9. wow! what a bunch of military experts we have here! lol!

      Delete
    10. The ELMA is both a defensive and offensive weapon but short ranged but very much less expensive than the ASW helo that is more medium ranged. Had the DND Navy spent the money on ELMA systems, all Navy major assets would have had an effective ASW system if coupled to a sonar-equipped USV.

      The ASW helos are basically bought to protect the 2 oversized gunboats.

      Not firing the SSM SAM coastal batteries mean that these were successful deterrence and area defense. As to the peacetime and HADR, these can be done by naval auxiliaries mass produced locally. HADR is another cover used by US ships to come and go into our territories without any invitation and permission.

      Delete
    11. Sure the government can buy new varied models of helicopters but do we have enough money to satisfy our requirements?

      You have thousands of cheap available Hueys that we are familiar with and many existing upgrade paths. Isn't it better to have 100 upgraded Hueys than just 20 new helicopters?

      It can even be a business opportunity for the PAF to later offer their expertise for export.

      Delete
    12. As I said, the Hueys are what we call "band-aid" solutions, made to give the PAF the breathing space to acquire more modern helicopters with the time given. The PAF will not require the same number of helicopters in its future TOE as the Army will be given its own wings for its own needs, while the PAF plans to move up to bigger helicopters but less in number than its current Huey fleet.

      The Huey upgrades are there, they will be used as the Hueys won't be retired anytime soon as well. But betting your future solely on them is not what the PAF is up to.

      Delete
    13. Which 2 oversized gunboats are you talking about? Are you sure that US ships enter into our territory without informing the government?

      As I said, the ELMA is nothing more but a modernized Hedgehog that even our WW2 ships already removed from its weapons systems. Even Sweden doesn't use them on their new ships anymore. USVs with sonar are not only short ranged, they are also slower than a helicopter, has limited value in the high seas, and is not cheap as well. Even the US Navy is having problems on the LCS's USV ASW system.

      Delete
    14. Are you sure US Navy ships has the permisson of our government everytime they enter Philippine waters?

      You express very well the US approach to defense - the bigger, the more expensive, the better. Usually better for the weapons seller. That is in itself is not good but worst if you have Philippine sized pocket.

      Upgraded Hueys for the AFP are not band aid solutions, so is the ELMA as proven by the Swedes. They can fulfill our needs. The Swedes upgraded to torpedoes because they have the money and we can do the same when we can afford it. The Russians and Indians have similar systems in their newest warships.

      In the meantime, cost effective affordable capable defense systems. Not just aping the US and other rich countries' expensive systems.

      Delete
    15. US ships requests permission to our government since they are not usually prevented from entering our waters, and they also assist in naval patrols being a defense treaty ally. Submarines are another case since the US may or may not request permission since the PN has no capability to detect them.

      The approaches I am discussing here are not necessarily the US approach, but is according to standard approaches which the PN uses and intends to follow.

      The Hueys, even in its upgraded form, are already band-aid solutions. Even the PAF accepts that notion. Are you familiar with the acquisition programs or changes in the TOE being lined up for the next 10 years after 2017? It is good that the PAF is acquiring more Hueys for cheap, but it is not the long term solution that the PAF has mapped out.

      You know why the ELMA is not effective on open water ASW operations? You should be familiar on how limited the systems are in offensive ASW operations especially that submarines use torpedoes and anti-ship missiles that outrange the ELMA. They are only good on ship defense against submarines in littoral operations like the Swedish archipelagos. But I can agree on you on 1 thing, such systems can be used by smaller littoral vessels, but without further sonar upgrades, they will be useless as well.

      Spending on defense has never been cheap. It's always expensive. There's no point of getting systems that may not be appropriate for the Philippines' geographical conditions.

      Delete
    16. From a source: the PN has included a system similar to Elma for possible local development, no further info can be provided. But such system, including Elma ASW-600 are only applicable for narrow and shallow waters, not the WPS or waters between Taiwan and Batanes. Also Saab has stopped producing thr Elma ASW-600.

      Delete
    17. The euphemism that the US uses is 'Freedom of Navigation' that supposedly gives them the right to freely navigate our internal waters even without our permission. Look at what happened to the US minesweeper Guardian in Tubbataha, with the fine for damages it did still unpaid up to now.

      It will be a big and costly mistake if the PAF will go to bigger new helicopters. This will dry up funding for more important missions specially for defensive aircraft. They should content themselves with upgraded Hueys in full operational status instead of just to keep up with the Joneses. Even the Israelis are still Huey users (Twin type).

      Even the soon available 2 expensive ASW helicopters cannot do offensive ASW actions in the WPS. Their mission will be mostly protecting the 2 oversized gunboats from subs. A more effective defense will be cheap in-place hydrophones and roaming USV's together with low cost sub sensors in all PN assets. Of course intelligence if it can be had

      The Russians are still selling their RBU's. You are right, we can make this locally including the affordable ASW sensors.

      Delete
    18. Gentleman, when it comes to ASW is a matter what is our doctrines in national defense strategy than we plan in accordance to the platform mission in relation to our active archapelagic defense strategy. So some if your points can be evaluated in accordance to present ans future ASW warfare threats. I hope we are aware of what our needs as a nation base on AADS.

      Delete
    19. ASW helicopters are actually use to detect submarines that poses as a threat and to deny or restrict its point of access. Which is an aggressor role . Almost all navies of the world uses helicopters as a backbone for its ASW . Combining with surface assets and fixed wing aircrafts as well as listening devices comprises your ASW network. Besides you need to detect and locate the intruder before you can dispatch the type of response needed base on its environmental situation . If you will look at the topographic location of the bodies of water surrounding the islands majority of them are deep which is a favorite area for subs . Which is why the initial phase for the PN modernization is to acquire 2 multipurpose frigate equip with an ASW helicopters . Having these assets are essentials which is a " need" rather than a "want". Now since Pnoy administration has made success in jump starting the AFP modernization program and was able to accomplish a milestone from the start . The US would its different approach in its foreign policy would rather play the role of a "partner" rather than a " big brother ". With that in mind a sound partnership should be base in mutualism . Which means both need to play an active role , one cannot be passive for both to benefit. Which lead us to how things are being done as compared to before on which the AFP relies on the US for its assets ,logistics and maintenance for its external defense. Let us all pray and hope that the future leaders are a man of God that are transparent would always have in mind to serve its people foremost . In return the nation should also serve the country through its rightful leaders base on God divine virtue.

      Delete
  22. NO update on 1st bidding of 2 asw helli? its already july 17

    ReplyDelete
  23. slowly but surely vietnam has develop their own radar and using their multi talent in all ways....I'm hoping the our government will also follow what vietnams did and a lot of pilipino engineers can also make our own radar for AFP.

    http://defense-studies.blogspot.com/2014/07/vietnam-successfully-made-medium-range.html?m=1

    ReplyDelete
  24. 13 days more to go and I'm really sure and trust our PN that they will going to choose the right manufacturer for their two new frigate this July....go go go Philippine Navy we supported all of you for this project.thanks President Pnoy for the effort..God bless you always...To Bayan muna party list....shut up..you (mr. colmenares) say what you want about west philippine issue snd I am waiting for you to speak in public media.

    ReplyDelete
  25. Love this blogspot!!! Hope for more Filipino to join group discussion and and to those stupid politicians who opposes our modernization to stop meddling to the military affairs instead focus themselves to improves more of the Filipinos way of life nor just making grand standing to the media for their inept corruptions issues...come 2016 elections DO NOT VOTES FOR THESE STUPID POLITICIANS WHO MEDDLES TO AFP MODERNIZATION! Mabuhay ang PILIPINAS

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. mabuhay ka din kabayan
      - Mark Romero

      Delete
  26. Ok its about time our government business and investment corporation invest in manufacturing for export business its about time our the government earn dollar they have money lots of money. You know how china economy take off in short time...coz they focus on manufacturing for export. Our government money is invested in non dollar business. If we our government is earming dollar for export oriented manufacturing+ dollar remittance from ofw philippines will be a rich country.

    ReplyDelete
  27. Ang Malaya report stated that the PAF CAS bid deadline has been extended to Aug. 11 to give time for the newly-developed Textron (Cessna, Bell) Scorpion. It's a twin engine CAS composite jet and can carry twice the payload of the Super Tucanos. The big surprise is that the per unit cost is about the same !! I would say this is quite a bargain and we should go for it I think the engines are the same ones used in Cessna's light private jets and should have good gas mileage. .

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. It would have been best to post this on the CAS discussion, wherein this issue re. Scorpion was discussed in the comments section.

      Delete
  28. Sir Max Wala po bang update sa frigate kung anong spec?

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. We have some tidbits, but due to the secrecy and integrity requirements of the bidding, we opt not to release until the PN does the announcement first. I respect these requirements of the PN so lets stick to that for now.

      Delete
    2. hi max,
      Are you happy with those tidbits?

      Delete
  29. Sir Max, I know this is OT but can i ask what's under the Phase 2 of the AFP Modernization?

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. A short summary: additional orders from those included in Phase 1. And more. But this is not yet a final plan and can still be changed depending on politics and its effects to the AFP and DND.

      Delete
    2. So in the end, it boils down to who will succeed Pres. Pnoy.

      Delete
    3. Hi Anonymous it really boils down onto the next administration. In fact even without the new administration the AFP modernization could be slowed down by the ruling if the court on DAP which PNOY used to pay for the current AFP modernization projects (I stand corrected on the accuracy of info that PNOY used DAP to pay for the AFP modernization project). Yet if it is true we should rally to support PNOY in the case of DAP. Come what may and again we elect a Chinese Dancer. It is goodbye for all our West Philippine Territory.

      Delete
  30. Update:

    Gazmin and Fast highlighted the recently signed contract for $105 million (P4.5 billion) for firm Bell Helicopter Textron Canada Ltd. to supply eight specialized helicopters for the Philippine armed forces.

    "This contract is an outcome of the Memorandum of Understanding between the Canadian Commercial Corporation and the Department of National Defence of the Philippines," a statement released by the Foreign Affairs, Trade and Development Canada said.

    http://www.philstar.com/headlines/2014/07/23/1349448/gazmin-canada-trade-chief-talk-defense-105m-chopper-deal

    ReplyDelete
  31. i may find happy for this news...

    http://www.philstar.com/headlines/2014/07/23/1349457/us-give-c-130-planes-philippines

    ReplyDelete
  32. hi Max, arent you going to make an entry about the ADAS? highlights, features, any rumours during the event....... we'd love to read up about this especially for us who couldnt attend....thanks

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. I was not there either. So its difficult to write of an event that I was not able to attend.

      Delete
  33. Sir Max confirmed na ba na ang usa will donated two C-130 aircraft fitted with sensors as LRMPA?

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. MaxDefense has already made 2 blog entries regarding the entry of EDA C-130s to beef up the PAF's fleet. This is part of what MaxDefense explained before. But sensors are not included, LM did not say they will donate MPA sensors for C-130s, but proposed to use PAF C-130s to be outfitted with MPA systems.

      Delete
    2. just to clarify the US will not donate 2 c-130T but it will be bought by the PH thru FMS for estimated cost of $61 million, here is the link below:

      http://www.dsca.mil/major-arms-sales/government-philippines-c-130t-aircraft

      Delete
    3. Hi Max, are being given or are we actually buying 2 C130T models? Is this one and the same or are these two different acquisitions?

      Delete
    4. Hi Max, I am a little confused in this cargo plane subject, the C130T is FMS, we are paying for it/buying it for $61M (no way free for that amount). However, the new AFP chief of staff says, the US (his counterpart) is extending two units to the AFP (as a donation?). Besides the two C130T, do you think there are two more cargo plane that the US is extending to the Philippines. Therefore the total incoming Lockheed Martin Cargo Plane would be a total of 4 comprising of 2 x C130T and 2 x C130 (possibly H) or those donation the AFP Chief of staff mentioned is the 2 x C130T planes posted in the US Govt website provided by Jendrick Joson above. It is just that $61M is bit stiff for a donation, you add more to it and you could buy new. What do you think.

      Delete
    5. Maybe US gov't will provide the 2 C-130T for free from its EDA stock and the $61 Million will be for the refurbishment, upgrade, traning, spare parts etc..

      Delete
    6. Jendrich, you got it right. Airframe is free. Costs are for refurbishing, training, spares, and delivery. A separate MaxDefense blog will discuss this later on.

      Delete
  34. i think the plane doesn't have it's name because it is not yet registered in C.A.A.P???am right?sir,

    ReplyDelete
  35. what if we sell those person behind the delay of our AFP modernization the likes of Mr. Colmenares (Bayad Muna) and other non sense party list a a free bargain to China?
    Somehow I am against to this partylist and I think we dont need them to have a set in Congress and whats the use of those congressman assigned in their respective areas and those government agency in contrast with this partylist? I may say that I am going to support to abolish and will not include to the next election this partisan. This is one of the main factors that is why we cannot move on to improve our economy and the livings of the Filipino citizen.

    ReplyDelete
  36. I AGREE and political front sila ni Joma Sison....obvious di ba?????

    ReplyDelete
  37. On Monday July 28 na and yet wala pang balita kung sino nanalo sa bidding ng dalawang brand new frigate for PN......hay.......

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. I highly doubt that the frigates will ever be pursued. Pnoy in his Sona 2014 did not include this anymore in his anticipated buys for this year's big ticket item to look out for. Talk is cheap...

      Delete
    2. There are delays because of the very tight offers made by the shipbuilders. Reportedly all offered features that are better than what was indicated in the earlier specs the DND provided, and the PN is carefully threading a final specs list that will definitely identify a winner almost immediately. The current 2-ship frigate project is just the icing of the PN's upcoming acquisition plans, and is the PN's hallmark acqusition program for 2014-2015. There are more projects to be announced after the frigate project winner is announced.

      Delete
  38. Mga taong walang disiplina at pasensya ay d marunong maghintay cgurado kumpulsibo ang ang pag uugali pag ganito overdose na ng msg ang utak......avoid msg....for better and organize brain function.

    ReplyDelete
  39. Sir Max I agree with your comment and pardon me for including this in your section though I would like think we should ask Mr Colmenares of Bayad Muna Party if he is willing to debate and defend the Philippine sovereignty to the Chinese aggression to our territorial rights as sample in Panatag Shoal here in this blog site of yours and let see if can answer us on this....if we can only open this on another discussion section of your blog site and thanks.

    ReplyDelete
  40. Hello sir Max, I'm an avid fan of your blog. This was posted more than 30 ago: http://defense-studies.blogspot.com/

    Is it true?

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. The link you provided is incomplete. Post the link to the blog entry for us to see.

      Delete
    2. Sorry sir, here is the complete link: http://defense-studies.blogspot.com/2014/08/aw-159-likely-to-be-pns-first-asw.html

      Delete
  41. http://ptvnews.ph/index.php?option=com_content&view=article&id=36425&catid=11&Itemid=140

    ReplyDelete
  42. There goes 1 sokol. Even if it was caused by the wind the modernization has to be properly calibrated, ensure that training is done extensively. There should be sufficient budget for these training flights.

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. So sad to hear about this bad news. I hope this never happens to our future air assets like this ASW heli and the future FA-50s we are acquiring.

      Delete
  43. I saw the Sokol yesterday, ang ganda pala tingnan, pero nasira yung isa. sayang naman. Brand new ba yun?

    ReplyDelete
  44. Any news about the Bidding?? I hope that it will not be a failed bid...

    ReplyDelete
  45. Hi Max, any insight what had happened on this project. Was it a failed bidding? I thought it was just awaiting decision for awarding of the contract, however, it is now out for pre bid conference in October 7, 2014.

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. It appears that there was a failed bidding. Let's hope the new bid opening date won't be changed again.

      Delete
    2. Per Letter Requests from AW and PTDI regarding clarifications on bid docs, DND-BAC issued a supp bid bulletin moving the opening of the bids from Oct 21 to Oct 28.

      Delete
  46. 49r, its very unfortunate that Sikorsky did not even try joining just the pre-bid conference, even just to boost their name as a helicopter supplier. Interesting to see IAI and Bell-Serpenair as I can't really find a very convincing offer from them, while PTDI would probably offer the Panther on behalf of Airbus Helicopters.

    ReplyDelete
  47. sir max, didn't the koreans join the bidding with the asw variant of their surion helicopter?

    ReplyDelete
  48. Mr. Max Montero, I am learning a lot from your site. Thank you very much and God be with you!

    ReplyDelete
  49. Mr. Max Montero, I am learning from you site. Thank you very much and God be with you!

    ReplyDelete

Philippine Navy Modernization Projects

Philippine Air Force Modernization Projects