tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-38380507954644263292024-03-19T14:20:08.770+11:00MaxDefense PhilippinesA personal viewpoint on defense matters in the Philippines and Asia-Pacific region.max monterohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16217644456257635987noreply@blogger.comBlogger277125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3838050795464426329.post-70716603866615703352023-09-14T11:34:00.012+10:002023-09-14T12:06:49.321+10:00A Brief on the Horizon 3 Phase of the Revised AFP Modernization Program<p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">The year 2023 is the start of implementation the next phase of the Horizon series of military modernization procurement programming of the Revised AFP Modernization Program, which will run for five years until 2027.<br /><br />So how is the Horizon 3 phase going so far as we reach the 9th month since the program started. What are the updates, challenges and issues that it faces to make it implementable? <br /><br />As we restart our blog entries, we will first focus on what will be the basis of the Philippines' defense program in the next 5 years.<br /><br /></span></p><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhqybQGqXQ_qInsB7x3OCyRLgerxRFpFJKGXcEzuvkEmr981VXM-Zo-hotTfWm4BEZe0L5jZiTqotlW4QwK4HAxPCrKD77ZkaXKzQ-1XXzvp_TzNIbKZggTv_wJf9MGN7mXy6wkOaZC5uVsVPV3qu2ySQBMPO-c6BuzJVQ1kttK5cn5Nam2zlOGjoNnd_Q/s1024/FB_IMG_1694653483799.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><span style="font-family: arial;"><img border="0" data-original-height="602" data-original-width="1024" height="376" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhqybQGqXQ_qInsB7x3OCyRLgerxRFpFJKGXcEzuvkEmr981VXM-Zo-hotTfWm4BEZe0L5jZiTqotlW4QwK4HAxPCrKD77ZkaXKzQ-1XXzvp_TzNIbKZggTv_wJf9MGN7mXy6wkOaZC5uVsVPV3qu2ySQBMPO-c6BuzJVQ1kttK5cn5Nam2zlOGjoNnd_Q/w640-h376/FB_IMG_1694653483799.jpg" width="640" /></span></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial;">The JAS-39 Gripen which was selected foe the PAF's MRF requirements and is now being neogitated with Sweden. Photo credits to original source.</span></td></tr></tbody></table><span style="font-family: arial;"><br /><span><span style="font-size: medium;"><br /></span></span></span><p></p><p><span style="font-family: arial;"><span style="font-size: medium;"><b><u><span style="color: red;">The Horizon 3 Phase of the Revised AFP Modernization Program</span></u></b></span></span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial;"><span style="font-size: medium;">The Horizon 3 phase, the biggest and final phase of the Revised AFP Modernization Program's 5-year Horizon series, is expected to bring the capabilities of the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) to a level capable of providing a minimum credible territorial defense posture. <br /><br />The phase will also allow the AFP to have almost all the basic necessities and capabilities that it needs, and will provide the foundation for it to grow to an even more capable force in the future. </span><br /></span><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;"><br />By the end of the Horizon 3 phase, the AFP should have already caught up and gained the knowledge base, experience base, capability base, materiel and doctrine of a modern fighting force equal or greater than its contemporaries in the region, despite the minimum size of formation and equipment that it possesses.<br /><br />Future procurement programs after Horizon 3 will be meant to reinforce the basics, expand the quantity of its assets and units, gradually keep up with the future technology and capabilities it many need.<br /><br />Unsurprisingly, the Horizon 3 phase will be sub-divided into several phases jist like the Horizon 1 and 2 phases. In this case there will be 3 phases, all of which were submitted for approval to Pres. Ferdinand Marcos Jr. By then AFP Chief of Staff Gen. Andres Centino and DND OIC Senior Usec. Carlito Galvez.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">Due to the numerous requirements being sought by the AFP and the funding challenges that it already knew would be expected, the AFP created its shopping list according to prioritization.<br /><br />The one described by the DND last April 2023 appears to be the </span><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">Phase 1 (aka Priority Phase) which was said to be worth Php500 billion.<br /><br /></span></p><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEia-TXwYzZWwQYNjRWxDYbHhoxv1qkwz33YMVm9uaVqHr8Vy6DnPFGowsNYWK2T-x948iLy8YdkCHAi5CaG0WwenGo-R9Oxo2jup6Yv2RjfBG48rzgBQ-cD-f7INZRHkDYZxt2p-W379seQCaHiNujE1boo3_cbQPWl_8zCaAvCFQrx5uU6a3stzQzptLg/s600/WP-PULS.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><span style="font-family: arial;"><img border="0" data-original-height="398" data-original-width="600" height="424" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEia-TXwYzZWwQYNjRWxDYbHhoxv1qkwz33YMVm9uaVqHr8Vy6DnPFGowsNYWK2T-x948iLy8YdkCHAi5CaG0WwenGo-R9Oxo2jup6Yv2RjfBG48rzgBQ-cD-f7INZRHkDYZxt2p-W379seQCaHiNujE1boo3_cbQPWl_8zCaAvCFQrx5uU6a3stzQzptLg/w640-h424/WP-PULS.jpg" width="640" /></span></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial;">An example of an MLRS system, the Elbit PULS from Israel. Photo credits to Elbit Systems.</span></td></tr></tbody></table><span style="font-family: arial;"><br /></span><p></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;"><b><span style="color: #ffa400;"><br />First Phase / Priority Phase:<br /></span></b><br />The Phase 1, also known as the "Priority Phase", is obviously meant to give priority to the most sought-after capabilities of the AFP, which can be considered as the core capabilities that it wanted to have regardless if the Philippine Government can fund the entire Horizon 3 program or not.<br /><br />Due to the secret nature of the shopping list, it is difficult to confirm if our current information is the the current information. Thus, we cannot divulge the actual breakdown and can only speculate based on the information that we have.<br /><br />What is sure is that the Priority Phase shopping list is designed to provide the AFP with capabilities that will support its Archipelagic and Littoral Defense Strategy which is centered on enhancing the AFP's capability to detect and identify threats, provide minimum defense to the Philippine mainland, the Kalayaan Island Group and its littoral environment including its Exclusive Economic Zone.<br /><br />This means emphasis on Anti-Access / Area Denial (A2/AD) capabilities that focuses on f</span><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;">irepower delivery within 200 nautical miles, as well as surveillance and targeting capabilities to support such capability.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;"><span>This will include the following capabilities:</span><br /><br /><span>* Further improvement of the Command, Control, Communications, Computers, Information/Intelligence, Surveillance, Target Acquisition and Reconnaissance (C4ISTAR) capabilities of the AFP General Headquarters and all three service branches;</span><br /><br /><span>* Air Defense and Air Surveillance Radar Systems for the Philippine Air Force;</span><br /></span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">* </span><span style="font-family: arial;"><span style="font-size: medium;">Land/Shore-Launched Anti-Ship Missile Systems for the Philippine Army and Philippine Marine Corps;</span><br /></span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">* Land/Shore based Rocket and Missile Artillery Systems for the Philippine Army and Philippine Marine Corps;<br /><br />* Combat Aircraft for air identification, air defense and anti-shipping operations for the Philippine Air Force;<br /><br />* Offshore and Littoral naval assets for the Philippine Navy;<br /></span></p><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj80XCwfeOsN8yc2LEl3hbXQvfo24LQ24DduEMSBC5xo6yFVz8Vk59JacpBw4Qn0hzDlAv32ybxkBzDqXLlP0D7EhL4gnY49oVJMX4lux_otn_k3WPkjHPgTGLSkxeB_b64Z9dfFibMPyrP3pg5ETMq1-pPNvmAnz6PpirK9KZ1AZMTVmH8RKMzLl0RX70/s700/img_hdf3800.png" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><span style="font-family: arial;"><img border="0" data-original-height="380" data-original-width="700" height="348" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj80XCwfeOsN8yc2LEl3hbXQvfo24LQ24DduEMSBC5xo6yFVz8Vk59JacpBw4Qn0hzDlAv32ybxkBzDqXLlP0D7EhL4gnY49oVJMX4lux_otn_k3WPkjHPgTGLSkxeB_b64Z9dfFibMPyrP3pg5ETMq1-pPNvmAnz6PpirK9KZ1AZMTVmH8RKMzLl0RX70/w640-h348/img_hdf3800.png" width="640" /></span></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial;">Additional frigates are expected to be procured by the Philippine Navy. Photo credits to HHI.</span></td></tr></tbody></table><p></p><p><span style="font-family: arial;"><br /></span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;"><span>* Ground-Based Air Defense Systems for the Philippine Air Force, Philippine Army, and Philippine Marine Corps;</span><br /><br /><span>* Improvement and upgrade of current capabilities for all the 3 service branches</span><br /><br /><span>* Carry-over projects from the Horizon 2 Priority Phase and 2nd List of Horizon 2 phase that were not implemented as of 2023.</span></span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;"></span></p><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjQIYlHaVLOKFJgnHIAPzZBYbrm-4-5gh7YvNBMQqklXrI2-CPbVhJwY05Geh-4WupDW6utoSNxuxHv1Cvj5Rixdsb1tm11oCdnClBaUOg0v94rmJ2XsZcaOuit7P6ULRRVfD0eojXA46nWoSATtTV2wR4oZArSIZqBqzNWQd4jCehnXVNpoCopVOwIw1Y/s840/2185273988b31932cf912924ba4dcbd8.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><span style="font-family: arial;"><img border="0" data-original-height="560" data-original-width="840" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjQIYlHaVLOKFJgnHIAPzZBYbrm-4-5gh7YvNBMQqklXrI2-CPbVhJwY05Geh-4WupDW6utoSNxuxHv1Cvj5Rixdsb1tm11oCdnClBaUOg0v94rmJ2XsZcaOuit7P6ULRRVfD0eojXA46nWoSATtTV2wR4oZArSIZqBqzNWQd4jCehnXVNpoCopVOwIw1Y/w640-h426/2185273988b31932cf912924ba4dcbd8.jpg" width="640" /></span></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial;">The Rafael SPYDER Philippines Air Defense System (SPADS) of the Philippine Air Force. More are expected to be acquired. Photo credits to AFP.</span></td></tr></tbody></table><span style="font-family: arial;"><br /><br /><span style="font-size: medium;"><br /><span><span>Based on the previous discussions we already had in our social media pages and with our extension Philippine Defense Resource, we can assume that the following are to be expected:</span><br /><br /><span>Additional air defense radars, either from Japan, Israel or the United States; additional Brahmos anti-ship coastal defense missile batteries, multiple-launch rocket systems like the Elbit PULS, Hanwha K239 Chunmoo and M142 HIMARS; fighter aircraft like the Saab JAS-39C/D Gripen or F-16 Viper; additional frigates and fast attack interdiction crafts; addition Rafael SPADS and introduction of shorter-ranged surface-to-air missile systems; and upgrades for the Jose Rizal-class frigates, Tarlac-class LPDs, the upcoming HDC-3100 corvettes, the FA-50PH Fighting Eagle light combat aircraft, and others.</span></span></span><br style="font-size: large;" /></span><p></p><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgokQBdIuBy-yTtVhXDKowHOEFKEF9pKKBtC4ZazuRvTkwUdJluNp5HhNUWOcstBEZrGnxJBPEiAE6U4Ypa6OU9MsBdGg-xiW-i--CngRC5a0Hidy8No05TMcYtiQmXYwDbpJGlSK1Qf5V56wckTGg1Gr_FoUHUGqhrUlaw6g2aX6maAdZ4nixwbseZYLc/s780/the-versatile-jas-39-gripen-1688075587.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><span style="font-family: arial;"><img border="0" data-original-height="438" data-original-width="780" height="360" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgokQBdIuBy-yTtVhXDKowHOEFKEF9pKKBtC4ZazuRvTkwUdJluNp5HhNUWOcstBEZrGnxJBPEiAE6U4Ypa6OU9MsBdGg-xiW-i--CngRC5a0Hidy8No05TMcYtiQmXYwDbpJGlSK1Qf5V56wckTGg1Gr_FoUHUGqhrUlaw6g2aX6maAdZ4nixwbseZYLc/w640-h360/the-versatile-jas-39-gripen-1688075587.jpg" width="640" /></span></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial;">The Saab JAS-39C/D Gripen, which are just needing MoU ratification to proceed the procurement. Photo credits to VanderWolf Images</span></td></tr></tbody></table><span style="font-family: arial;"><br /></span><p><span style="font-family: arial;"><b><span style="color: #ffa400;"><br /><span style="font-size: medium;">Second Phase:<br /></span></span></b><span style="font-size: medium;"><br /><span><span>Except for the undersea warfare capability</span><span>, this phase will mostly involved increasing the quantity of what the AFP already has from the previous Horizons 1 and 2, and Horizon 3 Priority Phase.</span><br /><br /><span>This is to complete previous acquisitions that were made in smaller numbers due to funding issues, and will allow the AFP to reach the optimal capability level that was not reached during earlier procurements. These include the folllwing capabilities:</span><br /><br /><span>* Submarines and development of the Submarine Force for the Philippine Navy;</span><br /><br /><span>* Aircraft-based air surveillance capabilities for the Philippine Air Force;</span><br /><br /><span>* Additional Maritime Patrol Aircraft for the Philippine Air Force and/or Philippine Navy;</span><br /><br /><span>* Additional Ground Based Air Defense Missile Systems, Shore-Based Anti-Ship Missile Systems for the three service branches;</span><br /><br /><span>* Additional combat fixed and rotary-wing aircraft for air defense, close air support and light strike aircraft for the Philippine Air Force;</span><br /><br /><span>* Additional air and sea transport assets for the Philippine Air Force and Philippine Navy;</span><br /><br /></span><span><span>* Additional amphibious assault capabilities for the Philippine Marine Corps</span><br /><br /></span><span>We can easily assume that the means the acquisition of submarines, additional fighter aircraft, A-29B Super Tucano light attack aircraft, T129B ATAK attack helicopters, ATR-72-600MPA maritime patrol aircraft, SPYDER air defense systems and Brahmos anti-ship coastal defense batteries, C-130H/J, C-295W, NC-212i transport aircraft, S-70i Black Hawk and Subaru Bell 412EPX combat utility helicopters, landing and amphibious assault ships and crafts, and KAAV-7A1 amphibious assault vehicles.</span></span></span></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh7hnwArpXxotAt1O3tO-OmD9tH5bwHYWE0bDtiw1-bCkRvHSiKonRTILzAqP7VPEVsxyt1uzJkzu8leCDYU9BuanbJHF29gl97lK2m_KB-aLcuvP47MdGeFDml_I3CZ467rdlinbuUrD0bBeo6Tyf1aPRE2frgGoUg36QQeIVuuPM1A_YMNR41VkA5JVg/s1264/Swedish-Armed-Forces-request-Saabs-GlobalEye-AEWC-aircraft.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: arial;"><img border="0" data-original-height="830" data-original-width="1264" height="420" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh7hnwArpXxotAt1O3tO-OmD9tH5bwHYWE0bDtiw1-bCkRvHSiKonRTILzAqP7VPEVsxyt1uzJkzu8leCDYU9BuanbJHF29gl97lK2m_KB-aLcuvP47MdGeFDml_I3CZ467rdlinbuUrD0bBeo6Tyf1aPRE2frgGoUg36QQeIVuuPM1A_YMNR41VkA5JVg/w640-h420/Swedish-Armed-Forces-request-Saabs-GlobalEye-AEWC-aircraft.jpg" width="640" /></span></a></div><span style="font-family: arial;"><br /></span><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi8mX-GvY0HrRUzGJmPoRL1w_zsJSSPfqO0E_RvebPQ7w3y6xkDVPFx9g3Iaj0CNWiL7NAPmtmSypDGZS85n4s4KW27i6jDQlfVI-AsqYDlsNM3ZD02PQZi1-LeDiTuf4HPSxHDADW6TcGdDK4qfMcPJcYvQCC2wn2oYiK-C2j4NekyUfcYFXSjJTy4x74/s1200/INS_Kalvari_(S21)_at_sea.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><span style="font-family: arial;"><img border="0" data-original-height="800" data-original-width="1200" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi8mX-GvY0HrRUzGJmPoRL1w_zsJSSPfqO0E_RvebPQ7w3y6xkDVPFx9g3Iaj0CNWiL7NAPmtmSypDGZS85n4s4KW27i6jDQlfVI-AsqYDlsNM3ZD02PQZi1-LeDiTuf4HPSxHDADW6TcGdDK4qfMcPJcYvQCC2wn2oYiK-C2j4NekyUfcYFXSjJTy4x74/w640-h426/INS_Kalvari_(S21)_at_sea.jpg" width="640" /></span></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial;">Among those possibly eyed for the Phase 2 of Horizon 3 are the acquisition of Airborne Early Warning & Control (AEW&C) aircraft (top) and Submarines (above). Photos for reference only.</span></td></tr></tbody></table><span style="font-family: arial;"><br /></span><p></p><p><span style="font-family: arial;"><br /><span style="font-size: medium;">The implementation of this phase will depend again on the performance of the Philippine economy as well as the political will of the Marcos Administration to push forward its defense goals as soon as it can.<br /><br /><br /><b><span style="color: #ffa400;">Third Phase:<br /></span></b><br />This phase appears to be more of a "just trying our luck" phase although MaxDefense Philippines believes that it is achievable to reach as long as there is seriousness in the Philippine Government to invest in the country's defense.<br /><br />It is a further continuation of Phase 2 acquisition plans, again with emphasis on A2/AD capabilities to push back movement of enemy forces away from the Philippine 200nmi Exclusive Economic Zone and territorial water/airspace.<br /><br />Focus will be more on the following:<br /><br />* Ground Based Air Defense Systems<br /><br />* Land/Shore Based Anti-Ship Missile Systems</span></span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial;"><span style="font-size: medium;"><br />=========================<br /><br /><br />To summarize, the proposed Horizon 3 Phases 1 to 3 will be worth more than a Trillion Pesos, which is very far higher than the Horizon 1 Phase at around Php130 billion, and Horizon 2 at Php430 billion.<br /><br />Our concern is on the ability of the Philippine Government to fund this considering the slowing economy, continued disinterest of foreign investors in the Philippines, focus on infrastructure development, and presence of pro-China lawmakers and government officials that block the ability to increase funding for the AFP Modernization Program.<br /><br /></span></span></p><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjgtgPocDLxEZFUxUAhuW-gb4-60Fe2_gIJHo8cS4oT1PozA-ge8_Wvh5OLzUwqP2-CNHu2KzmujfgZuezUOxtMg-XYdw11trN-xudK5fH-7-YT5fERSEZNOx-iPopio0-hjFDfLKVAhFYe9KqquCEntTHW5wrhl85TkVgy3hg8N4RNKtooAdfYEz-1Pf4/s1024/image-10-1024x600.jpeg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="600" data-original-width="1024" height="376" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjgtgPocDLxEZFUxUAhuW-gb4-60Fe2_gIJHo8cS4oT1PozA-ge8_Wvh5OLzUwqP2-CNHu2KzmujfgZuezUOxtMg-XYdw11trN-xudK5fH-7-YT5fERSEZNOx-iPopio0-hjFDfLKVAhFYe9KqquCEntTHW5wrhl85TkVgy3hg8N4RNKtooAdfYEz-1Pf4/w640-h376/image-10-1024x600.jpeg" width="640" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">There is growing interest on the HIMARS system and could be among those fornacquisition under Horizon 3 phase. </td></tr></tbody></table><span style="font-family: arial;"><br /></span><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;"><br /><b><u><span style="color: red;">MaxDefense Philippines' Opinion:<br /></span></u></b><br />Based on what is in the submitted shopping list, we believe that it was not properly given much attention, time and effort to really determine what the AFP needs to improve its defense capabilities in the face of current and future thrrats that it may face.<br /><br />The capabilities brought forward are correct, but it appears that the balance is notpresent on what are given priority.</span><div><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;"><br />The strategy that these proposed weapon systems will be providing appears to be too passive. These can only react and become useful once a shooting war starts. And while they can be a good deterence during peacetime, these assets are not really useful to conduct other missions during peacetime or to address China's salami-slicing strategy of slowly moving forward without firing a shot.<br /><br />How about during peacetime? Land-based missile systems cannot conduct air and sea patrol, cannot conduct intelligence gathering and surveillance, cannot show the flag in our areas of interest and territories, cannot conduct search and rescue or HADR roles or support HADR operations, and cannot be used during exercises overseas or beyond their delopyment area.</span></div><div><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">How about threats beyond our EEZ but within our country's national interests? What about those in the interest of the regional and international community as part of the Philippines' role in peace and security?<br /><br />The Horizon 3 shopping list also indicates that the AFP may not have consulted its allies and strategic security partners which is an essential factor considering our country's security strategy is anchored on having US forces onboard during a shooting war, and having US and other partners around when when deterring potential enemies during peacetime.</span></div><div><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;"><br /></span><p></p><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiE8azaZ9suyScpexEM1ftwUuYx3vMxqPQaEpgkUuB1oTvWHJeaXOvFb6dtPLvKVLeiUsTwM5ZUOpTWEzJTeH6aiY9PyLDp33g1mxdQ384hD17fEjleEt84Lo2nnzY1gmacWHgnngLftQ4COGe7xHzihXc_s5-qMCDmQgSrrklHwgGlSrUMP0f-zNEtdOk/s480/brahmos-land-based-system.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="360" data-original-width="480" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiE8azaZ9suyScpexEM1ftwUuYx3vMxqPQaEpgkUuB1oTvWHJeaXOvFb6dtPLvKVLeiUsTwM5ZUOpTWEzJTeH6aiY9PyLDp33g1mxdQ384hD17fEjleEt84Lo2nnzY1gmacWHgnngLftQ4COGe7xHzihXc_s5-qMCDmQgSrrklHwgGlSrUMP0f-zNEtdOk/w640-h480/brahmos-land-based-system.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial;">The Brahmos Cshore based anti-ship missile system, which the Philippines is acquiring. More are planned in the future. Photo cresits to Economic Times India.</span></td></tr></tbody></table><br /><span style="font-family: arial;"><span style="font-size: medium;"><br />Are the capabilities being acquired in sync with what our allies and partners can and/or cannot provide as part of military assistance packages and to the defense strategies to be employed? Will there be too much redundancy between Philippine and US forces' capabilities that a huge gap on other needed capabilities twould hapoen? Would it be better to have a balance to address these gaps as well?</span></span><div><span style="font-family: arial;"><span style="font-size: medium;"><br /></span><span style="font-size: medium;">Balance is key to the planning of assets. While A2/AD is important, too much emphasis on it will place other capabilities in jeopardy.</span></span><p><span style="font-family: arial;"><span style="font-size: medium;"><br /><b><u><span style="color: red;">"Back to the Drawing Board"<br /></span></u></b></span></span><span style="font-size: medium;"><span style="font-family: arial;"><br />As of this writing, we were informed by defense and military sources that the In-Principle Approval of the Horizon 3 Phase 1 procurement list has not yet been approved as it is still being reviewed by the Department of Budget and Management (DBM) before Pres. Marcos will give his final approval.<br /></span><span style="font-family: arial;"><br />Defense Sec. Gilbert Teodoro Jr. also confirmed as of 12 September 2023 that he already told AFP Chief of Staff Gen. Romeo Brawner Jr. to review the Horizon 3 procurement program to make sure it addresses the current and future defense requirements of the Armed Forces of the Philippines, and is well coordinated with discussions with allies and security partners.<br /></span><span style="font-family: arial;"><br />His recent statement during the Senate hearing on the 2024 Defense Budget confirmed his disappointment on the Horizon 3 shopping list, and gave hints of what he believe should be done.</span></span></p><p><span style="font-size: medium;"><span style="font-family: arial;">Paraphrasing what he said: "If we only buy 12 fighter aircraft, what's the point? We should be buying a minimum of 30 to 40 fighters. Other countries procure fighter aircraft in bulk: 70, 80, 90 fighters."<br /></span><span><span style="font-family: arial;"><br />In the meantime, we believe the Philippine Government can focus on addressing the funding backlog for projects from the Horizon 1 and Horizon 2 phases that are not yet funded and are already delayed in implementation. As of the DND's 2022 reports, </span></span><span style="font-family: arial;"><span>less than Php150 billion have been funded out of the more than Php400 billion required for Horizon 2 phase, with many delayed projects proposed to be included in the 1st Phase of Horizon 3.<br /></span></span><span style="font-family: arial;"><span><br />There are already signs that despite the Horizon 3 phase's procuirement plans not being approved yet, the balances from Horizon 2 are moving forward slowly espeically that Defense Sec. Gilbert Teodoro Jr.'s appointment has been confirmed by the Commission on Appointments on 13 September 2023</span></span><span style="font-family: arial;"> </span></span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial;"><br /></span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial;"><span>===============<br /></span><span>===============<br /></span><span>First edit and release: 14 September 2023<br />Copyright MaxDefense Philippines<br /></span><span><span style="clear: left; display: inline; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiYWXCNgEKjy9PvhyXm0jmw-UnztULhhX9_GTnNx_JypEfRUOe07Cmiy5RovWdombNpNjDgXqOLGsfr3ebf42GCzvvv9mgDCJupEGN2BfPWB07rMXH1PWyeHsOmXJDQ-oAMnohCrulGckI/s1600/20160919_073729.jpg" style="clear: left; display: inline; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="227" data-original-width="961" height="75" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiYWXCNgEKjy9PvhyXm0jmw-UnztULhhX9_GTnNx_JypEfRUOe07Cmiy5RovWdombNpNjDgXqOLGsfr3ebf42GCzvvv9mgDCJupEGN2BfPWB07rMXH1PWyeHsOmXJDQ-oAMnohCrulGckI/s320/20160919_073729.jpg" width="320" /></a></span></span></span></p></div></div>max monterohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16217644456257635987noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3838050795464426329.post-41830431422203436772022-03-13T04:05:00.002+11:002022-03-13T04:10:36.451+11:00Russia has unnecessarily showed its capabilities (or lack of it) in a war it might strategically lose<p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;"><br />The Russian invasion of Ukraine has exposed a lot of valuable information on the Russian Armed Forces' overall capabilities, considered valuable not just by NATO forces that was formed to counter a theoretical Russian invasion of Western (and Eastern) Europe, but also by the world's militaries, think tanks, defense schools, and analysts in general.<br /></span></p><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEiVWbLp6rAeQ_DDat9KCTBXq8tcwoDuzP1XA92T6Esludk_8wJ0GXFpUSzCmLAP5sDqotdk78wgBt02LN8yPEPCAQlVMaLHUScuq2-JWmo7CwWSpmAR5j6At9bWDTfxs5Q8PpkTF0nI04u9xopwY2xJn1DQWLjJ5aB66MwVyL6BGN57cekUjJGbyv8_=s900" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;"><img border="0" data-original-height="506" data-original-width="900" height="360" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEiVWbLp6rAeQ_DDat9KCTBXq8tcwoDuzP1XA92T6Esludk_8wJ0GXFpUSzCmLAP5sDqotdk78wgBt02LN8yPEPCAQlVMaLHUScuq2-JWmo7CwWSpmAR5j6At9bWDTfxs5Q8PpkTF0nI04u9xopwY2xJn1DQWLjJ5aB66MwVyL6BGN57cekUjJGbyv8_=w640-h360" width="640" /></span></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial;">Russia has invaded Ukraine on 24 February 2022. Photo credits to Financial Times.</span></td></tr></tbody></table><div><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">No doubt, Russia is winning the war as its forces continue to steam-roll Ukraine by shear firepower. But it has taken terrible tactical losses and strategic delays that are not expected of a superpower military like those of Russia.<br /><br />The invasion is entering its 18th day as of this writing, yet the Russian military has failed to accomplish its objectives and deadlines. Russian forces have failed to conduct a blitzkrieg across Ukraine, has failed to reach the capital Kyiv, has failed to dislodge and dispose of the government of Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy, and install a pro-Moscow puppet government. And it appears that the Russian military will continue to fail in the coming weeks.<br /><br />While Ukraine has massive losses in manpower and materiel, the war highlighted an even outrageously massive Russian losses emphasized by photos and videos from the ground, and confirmation from NATO monitoring from spy satellites over Ukraine.<br /><br />In less than 2 weeks, Russia has lost more men and materiel in Ukraine than the American losses in Iraq in over 8 years. And in 3 weeks, Russia is more than half the total losses of Soviet forces in Afghanistan in 10 years from 1979-1989. This is based even on just half of what the Ukrainian government claims.<br /><br />The Russian Air Force has not achieved air superiority, more so air dominance over the skies of Ukraine, and it has suffered losses almost on a daily basis against Ukrainian air defenses. It also shows that the Ukrainian Air Force and Air Defense Forces are still working despite reduced capabilities, and is successfully deterring the Russian Air Force.<br /><br /></span></div><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEh-fMhZDK_Qk9ocT8Jf1uF-6zUPoNbKxp-QvmDa9npmFQh0bzKxJRZV5vPIT8jufLJM_BimQaed_euDwpGiV9FqeQ_9DrRJQppZOV7jsy0ToOfkUvUvgAoWPXz49PXEOuRPTudi5-uVdjW0K9hcraIE4dwoZgyW0lUOYY-_otGOX6U2MZ1LgX1xs7v_=s960" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;"><img border="0" data-original-height="641" data-original-width="960" height="428" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEh-fMhZDK_Qk9ocT8Jf1uF-6zUPoNbKxp-QvmDa9npmFQh0bzKxJRZV5vPIT8jufLJM_BimQaed_euDwpGiV9FqeQ_9DrRJQppZOV7jsy0ToOfkUvUvgAoWPXz49PXEOuRPTudi5-uVdjW0K9hcraIE4dwoZgyW0lUOYY-_otGOX6U2MZ1LgX1xs7v_=w640-h428" width="640" /></span></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial;">Russian Air Force Su-35 Flanker-E fighters during exercises. Photo credits to Reuters.</span></td></tr></tbody></table><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;"><br /></span><div><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">Poor logistics and support on Russian forces has been a major highlight in this conflict. This includes lack of fuel (multiple cases of abandoned Russian vehicles due to lack of fuel) and food (reports of expired Meals Ready to Eat given to Russian soldiers resulting to Russian troops looting Ukrainian stores and even farms), use of poor quality Chinese-made military tires (which are said to be a poor-piss copy of a Michelin tire model), and lack of coordination between frontline combat units and supporting units.<br /><br /></span></div><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEhjJf92YXpde-OBtKYBnJvQDU7UgFejZYilk8RaWkW5On4qRNDNbbQqSHy5wO8oZhiDDNPWe_GtmDGotcOQq2bLkJrLoDcMzcoX1unxhR3NtAObUGPA9UZqiYhx60p-yAjIa4y4eftmIyaD71B9ERlHKjZFIBtBCsU8RiX--P-_PQlG6daak-Z9OEHc=s620" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;"><img border="0" data-original-height="372" data-original-width="620" height="384" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEhjJf92YXpde-OBtKYBnJvQDU7UgFejZYilk8RaWkW5On4qRNDNbbQqSHy5wO8oZhiDDNPWe_GtmDGotcOQq2bLkJrLoDcMzcoX1unxhR3NtAObUGPA9UZqiYhx60p-yAjIa4y4eftmIyaD71B9ERlHKjZFIBtBCsU8RiX--P-_PQlG6daak-Z9OEHc=w640-h384" width="640" /></span></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial;">Russian Army convoy near Kyiv has not moved forward for weeks. Photo credits to Maxar Technologies.</span></td></tr></tbody></table><div><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;"><br /></span></div><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">Troop morale and lack of information has also become a prevailing problem with the Russian forces. Especially for the initial invading units, soldiers were given wrong information by saying that they will be going for a training mission, and that Ukrainians will welcome them with open arms. Maps were not given to many Russian soldiers, or the maps are too old and useless. Tactical leadership also appears to be a problem resulting to high-level officers to be in the frontline and getting killed by Ukrainian forces. So far, MaxDefense PH has reported the death of 3 high-ranking Russian generals killed in the frontline.<br /><br /></span><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEjX-pQ9Oj4sq520o8xi6O4IeSC1OknxHoRCt5mvrU8MRChLsqe2yD308yukdEPdzjCBWfYMtjQ9At1YblER6GnOtv0lvSMLCDd9CUkjTQavo9pfnLgpgoXGq7y4RLwRJaIORAcufVbs5d1zTZ8h8nLDP9cBEb9MxyegW5TkoGvAlH5rdEnSOFVv9qnw=s1280" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><span style="font-family: arial;"><img border="0" data-original-height="720" data-original-width="1280" height="360" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEjX-pQ9Oj4sq520o8xi6O4IeSC1OknxHoRCt5mvrU8MRChLsqe2yD308yukdEPdzjCBWfYMtjQ9At1YblER6GnOtv0lvSMLCDd9CUkjTQavo9pfnLgpgoXGq7y4RLwRJaIORAcufVbs5d1zTZ8h8nLDP9cBEb9MxyegW5TkoGvAlH5rdEnSOFVv9qnw=w640-h360" width="640" /></span></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial;">Surrendering Russian troops due to hunger and low morale. Photo credits to original source.</span></td></tr></tbody></table><div><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: arial;"><br /></span></span></div><div style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: arial;"><br />The Russian invasion of Ukraine also exposed a lot of vulnerabilities in Russian assets and units, many of which were perceived to be among the best in the world. Below are some examples:<br /><br /></span></div><span><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">* The massive losses of highly-regarded Russian main battle tanks like the T-72, T-80 and the T-90 against Western anti-tank systems like the American FGM-148 Javelin, the British-Swedish NLAW, and even to other systems like the munitions used by the Turkish Bayraktar UCAV. The war also exposed the Russian Army's lack of active protection systems on its tanks, as well as the condition of its tanks (based on photos and videos on the inside and outside of captured/destroyed units);</span></span><div><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;"><br /></span><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEh2CqTiAc-IMHhyHgIybFn87i9GNaNTgruBzEyubZetDU4_PoSMoGZ6AulQ3Ct3RAv4950J869Ku-6-E5CmYDBf2gwOtQYU7_BELtwBWXTiEBPZdrvW-ueR8lKhcw4SWgtMRS_d4_xpV3M8pGCOLdyEz2WimcvzQ_gFUkJ9BV2d7hb0RZi6F-ham3qV=s1280" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;"><img border="0" data-original-height="776" data-original-width="1280" height="388" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEh2CqTiAc-IMHhyHgIybFn87i9GNaNTgruBzEyubZetDU4_PoSMoGZ6AulQ3Ct3RAv4950J869Ku-6-E5CmYDBf2gwOtQYU7_BELtwBWXTiEBPZdrvW-ueR8lKhcw4SWgtMRS_d4_xpV3M8pGCOLdyEz2WimcvzQ_gFUkJ9BV2d7hb0RZi6F-ham3qV=w640-h388" width="640" /></span></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial;">Destroyed and captured Russian tanks. Photo credits to Oryx.</span></td></tr></tbody></table><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">* Vulnerability of Russian Airborne Forces airdrop-capable armored vehicles (BMD and BTR series of armored vehicles), which suffered severe losses against light anti-tank weapons and RPGs from Ukrainian regular forces;</span></p><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEjgTwt0bRJTifCHw1Zxde8sD50RQwrZa3ZadC8tEYkVtd4Z5wqpEaAfBiJUtAksoUF7R7Y6EBFeEh0Le0YHd7XeoX5Qioup3AvDdPy3EsAnkVEcg9xj8V-VWidsnbRPMWU7k0_DGRQtp35QmE1w5HRhmmQk6RIZaDGDXtXiiZs_LO4t4QNwxtATUavk=s597" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;"><img border="0" data-original-height="395" data-original-width="597" height="424" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEjgTwt0bRJTifCHw1Zxde8sD50RQwrZa3ZadC8tEYkVtd4Z5wqpEaAfBiJUtAksoUF7R7Y6EBFeEh0Le0YHd7XeoX5Qioup3AvDdPy3EsAnkVEcg9xj8V-VWidsnbRPMWU7k0_DGRQtp35QmE1w5HRhmmQk6RIZaDGDXtXiiZs_LO4t4QNwxtATUavk=w640-h424" width="640" /></span></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial;">Decimated VDV forces in Bucha. Photo credits to original source.</span></td></tr></tbody></table><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">* The unexpected losses of high-end Russian combat aircraft including the Sukhoi Su-30 Flanker, Su-35 Flanker-E, and Su-34 Fullback, which might affect its export (although the sanctions Russia received might even make it impossible to sell for export afterall);</span></p><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEgrbrxi3a2ifVk8PU-sPgoQ-gtS7BS7vmFSe5QQnh51zG4n6jDacFkMiSDa0aH56pQ1PmKoRd-q4Hmki9yNkgxgOxT4xGOD3ReSFETTcqWA1DTPTFCpc8G_MYffUA-4K8xOs-EWF_gMfohgXFI7Jkakbw5CVyhJ9iA9_lmnWhkP-3eLPdmqsohZcR13=s1200" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;"><img border="0" data-original-height="675" data-original-width="1200" height="360" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEgrbrxi3a2ifVk8PU-sPgoQ-gtS7BS7vmFSe5QQnh51zG4n6jDacFkMiSDa0aH56pQ1PmKoRd-q4Hmki9yNkgxgOxT4xGOD3ReSFETTcqWA1DTPTFCpc8G_MYffUA-4K8xOs-EWF_gMfohgXFI7Jkakbw5CVyhJ9iA9_lmnWhkP-3eLPdmqsohZcR13=w640-h360" width="640" /></span></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial;">The wreck of one of the Russian Air Force's Su-34 Fullback strike aircraft. Photo credits original source.</span></td></tr></tbody></table><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">* The widespread use of air-dropped unguided munitions (dumb bombs and rockets) by the Russian Air Force has led experts to believe that Russia does not have sufficient precision guided munitions in its inventory. <br /><br />* The widespread lack of encrypted / secured communications and C3 systems of Russian frontline units (widespread use of civilian radios), which allowed Ukrainian forces, NATO Signal Intelligence (SIGINT) and Communications Intelligence (COMINT) units, and even Ukrainian and European civilians to intercept and jam Russian communications and allowing Ukrainian upper hand and release of information (losses, morale, problems, etc) from the Russian side;</span></p><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEgpqewIMfaoHmR6HP3WOe09enrgfT0IcwsqXfyAgWXkmo194Z7AHXyEEq_A3dH1w-0-sO6R15hpqoJ8sLH1B_7ZPcHF2rMyiBES3YNi0pdST5hfqb6q-29y8JdtVxqPM2I7raegQb6xQHTCMjUnAPCI5A4WKt6QLlxoAJTh-Wjzyfgee19tiq_wLdrC=s800" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;"><img border="0" data-original-height="533" data-original-width="800" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEgpqewIMfaoHmR6HP3WOe09enrgfT0IcwsqXfyAgWXkmo194Z7AHXyEEq_A3dH1w-0-sO6R15hpqoJ8sLH1B_7ZPcHF2rMyiBES3YNi0pdST5hfqb6q-29y8JdtVxqPM2I7raegQb6xQHTCMjUnAPCI5A4WKt6QLlxoAJTh-Wjzyfgee19tiq_wLdrC=w640-h426" width="640" /></span></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial;">Russian units do not have access to secured military communications equipment like the Russian AZART P1 as shown above. Photo credits to Vitaly Kuzmin via Wikimedia Commons.</span></td></tr></tbody></table><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;"><br /></span><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">* The vaunted Russian Airborne Forces (VDV) and Russian Special Operations Forces (Spetsnaz) also suffered massive defeats in several occasions against Ukrainian regular and Special Operations (Alpha Group). There were several instances that combat between Spetsnaz versus Alpha Group operators resulted in Russian defeat. This will affect the prestige and perception on the Spetsnaz being one of the best in the world.</span></p><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEgiwNFPI6uGw8C7P4zywZCugnfLmmqTrBi-01oge1F6nI9qJzKGt26bTKd_YFKcQhM8LbLsd6FTMVTLugKWrJs9qndqBGtVi2bq1Tr-4qNp-08TpT-xj5m4uXbPQmFRYIwUafd5c7LZEQ-tkO8s0HcUCijA70Bb59To5F43_veKeZYfO1-m4wJPrthl=s1200" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;"><img border="0" data-original-height="900" data-original-width="1200" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEgiwNFPI6uGw8C7P4zywZCugnfLmmqTrBi-01oge1F6nI9qJzKGt26bTKd_YFKcQhM8LbLsd6FTMVTLugKWrJs9qndqBGtVi2bq1Tr-4qNp-08TpT-xj5m4uXbPQmFRYIwUafd5c7LZEQ-tkO8s0HcUCijA70Bb59To5F43_veKeZYfO1-m4wJPrthl=w640-h480" width="640" /></span></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial;">A unit from the Russian Airborne Forces were destroyed by Ukrainian forces in Hostomel. Photo credits to original source.</span></td></tr></tbody></table><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;"><br /></span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">Russia is also losing the global social media war, in several ways also because of their own doing:<br />* Ukraine's ability to report Russian losses on the ground at almost real time by using social media has helped them a lot.<br />* Russians are dependent on their state-owned media outlets, which have been ineffective in reporting Russian gains and Ukrainian losses due to lack of information to report, but also because of them staying behind the front lines.<br />* The lies or misinformation from Russian state-owned media has been exposed numerous times, resulting to reduced readership and global acceptance as reliable sources of information.<br />* Russian government's decision to halt operations of Facebook, Twitter, and soon Instagram, as well pressuring the closure of Russian independent news agencies/outlets also means the Russian public will have not much options on where to get information.<br /><br />And now Russia is resorting to scare tactics by announcing the increased alert level of Russian nuclear forces, as well as resorting to targeting civilians and civilian infrastructure despite Russian President Vladimir Putin's previous claims that Russian forces will not target civilians.<br /><br />In the end, while Russia may win the war with heavy military losses, it will lose a lot more.<br />* While NATO has not entered into a physical war with Russia, the massive sanctions the Russian economy and oligarchy are getting from most major countries around the world would cripple the Russian economy and its ability to finance its military, as well as erase the economic gains made by Russia in the last 25 years;<br />* Russia may have underestimated Ukraine, a country of 44 million people with a land area similar to that of France. Ukraine is not a small country, and it has citizens who are not willing to be subjugated by Russia. It will lose a lot in fighting a guerrilla warfare against surviving Ukrainian military and civilian units that are committed to dislodging Russian presence in their country;<br /></span></p><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEgxvmW7goyOofqfdF4nf7HHErpxXmPtO4EXeu0qqz7GHhcm14HlbvdFROkJ_QBz6qvYQHmGf7dGbtehU0xNT7Fs3BZq4vQnfy9dFFhP_JsRdU9UkE9DE6a53fvzHDax1bypK7-XTk-tygeih0SV_EQKKHIqGneggcTMY1eSeDPitaGFyBhel6FE-gIM=s862" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><span style="font-family: arial;"><img border="0" data-original-height="485" data-original-width="862" height="360" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEgxvmW7goyOofqfdF4nf7HHErpxXmPtO4EXeu0qqz7GHhcm14HlbvdFROkJ_QBz6qvYQHmGf7dGbtehU0xNT7Fs3BZq4vQnfy9dFFhP_JsRdU9UkE9DE6a53fvzHDax1bypK7-XTk-tygeih0SV_EQKKHIqGneggcTMY1eSeDPitaGFyBhel6FE-gIM=w640-h360" width="640" /></span></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial;">Many Ukrainian women are also joining the fight against Russian invaders. Photo credits to ABC News.</span></td></tr></tbody></table><span><span style="font-family: arial;"><br /><span style="font-size: medium;">* The Russian public will be affected by their country becoming something like a pariah state, and could turn their attention or anger to Pres. Putin, which means a threat to his leadership. Pres. Putin is already believed to have become paranoid on his safety even from his closest friends and subordinates. </span></span></span><p></p><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEgkdPKUrR3j1sPjxhcxIa0IwL8p_LryeBVNYlPtluNx4CRGuTXzmZMC0UKEGymKqGfgRPkEKsoz5GNxDUYDN04ZVQ9zKihmvsp5ZvTNH4ZHzj8kLyr3XqYdEuf1ybMsZNmQ4m5slDiUIZsdVCh_-bew0r8xiqnGF4vt-Ob7aTNQcizVaq51S3RDjzy7=s1200" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><span style="font-family: arial;"><img border="0" data-original-height="675" data-original-width="1200" height="360" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEgkdPKUrR3j1sPjxhcxIa0IwL8p_LryeBVNYlPtluNx4CRGuTXzmZMC0UKEGymKqGfgRPkEKsoz5GNxDUYDN04ZVQ9zKihmvsp5ZvTNH4ZHzj8kLyr3XqYdEuf1ybMsZNmQ4m5slDiUIZsdVCh_-bew0r8xiqnGF4vt-Ob7aTNQcizVaq51S3RDjzy7=w640-h360" width="640" /></span></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial;">Is Putin becoming paranoid? According to experts, it is possible. Photo credits to original source.</span></td></tr></tbody></table><span style="font-family: arial;"><span><br /><span style="font-size: medium;">* The invasion of Ukraine has made NATO stronger, and has also strengthened the relationship between the European Union, UK, the US, and its other allies like Australia and Japan.</span></span><span style="font-size: medium;"><br /><span>* Germany will start increasing its defense budget, while other NATO countries are expected to follow suit. </span></span></span><p></p><div><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEjNzlgR_OsM61-61HmqyIilYj5c5f5XawJrs0S9CD8DU6-H-norjFD4bQkBiMGT-ewb4hZknqbrlIoFrMJXkccrSpHyXSmNNY4KsTWOFmlT1codNhk40IQ6CPuLsY-kAT6PEhpwXoOZ7XJEUUYQAD-B0FemAFpIoVsFvjMfgKYdWLHPA20ysNbMAzcA=s700" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><span style="font-family: arial;"><img border="0" data-original-height="394" data-original-width="700" height="360" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEjNzlgR_OsM61-61HmqyIilYj5c5f5XawJrs0S9CD8DU6-H-norjFD4bQkBiMGT-ewb4hZknqbrlIoFrMJXkccrSpHyXSmNNY4KsTWOFmlT1codNhk40IQ6CPuLsY-kAT6PEhpwXoOZ7XJEUUYQAD-B0FemAFpIoVsFvjMfgKYdWLHPA20ysNbMAzcA=w640-h360" width="640" /></span></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial;">Germany is doubling its defense budget due to Russian threat. Photo credits to Associated Press.</span></td></tr></tbody></table><span><span style="font-family: arial;"><br /><span style="font-size: medium;">We are not underestimating the Russians in this post. Instead, we are highlighting that the world might have overestimated the Russian juggernaut, and NATO may have prepared incorrectly based on the information it has over the last 30 years. <br /><br />There is no surprise that Ukrainians are fighting hard and making it difficult for Russian forces to takeover their country.<br /><br />But the real surprise here is the Russian military's inability to fight effectively and efficiently, and make use of its advantage in terms of materiel, overall fighting capability, and experience. <u>Everyone is just surprised that Russia has not lived up to expectations.</u></span></span></span></div><p><span style="font-family: arial;"><span style="font-size: medium;">The Armed Forces of the Philippines should be very keen in studying the Russian invasion of Ukraine, as many lessons can be taken from it that could improve the AFP's overall capability and performance against a larger foreign invader.<br /><br /></span><span>===============<br /></span><span>===============<br /></span><span>First edit and release: 13 March 2022<br />Copyright MaxDefense Philippines<br /></span><span><span style="clear: left; display: inline; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiYWXCNgEKjy9PvhyXm0jmw-UnztULhhX9_GTnNx_JypEfRUOe07Cmiy5RovWdombNpNjDgXqOLGsfr3ebf42GCzvvv9mgDCJupEGN2BfPWB07rMXH1PWyeHsOmXJDQ-oAMnohCrulGckI/s1600/20160919_073729.jpg" style="clear: left; display: inline; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="227" data-original-width="961" height="75" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiYWXCNgEKjy9PvhyXm0jmw-UnztULhhX9_GTnNx_JypEfRUOe07Cmiy5RovWdombNpNjDgXqOLGsfr3ebf42GCzvvv9mgDCJupEGN2BfPWB07rMXH1PWyeHsOmXJDQ-oAMnohCrulGckI/s320/20160919_073729.jpg" width="320" /></a></span></span></span></p></div>max monterohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16217644456257635987noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3838050795464426329.post-24201905174804097982021-08-09T13:32:00.007+10:002021-08-09T16:44:50.175+10:00The Philippine Navy's new Corvette Acquisition Project moves closer to reality, as more details are revealed<p><span style="font-family: helvetica;"> <br /><span style="font-size: medium;">The Philippine Navy (PN) has been pursuing the acquisition of new guided-missile Corvettes as it continues to improve its combat capability as part of the service's modernization program.<br /><br />Two new corvettes are eyed under the Corvette Acquisition Project (CAP), as part of the Horizon 2 Priority phase of the Revised AFP Modernization Program (RAFPMP) which covers acquisition projects between 2018 to 2022.<br /><br />Currently, the CAP is delayed based on the Philippine Navy's programming, as they were hoping that a contract would be signed by 2020 to allow the first ship of the class to be delivered by late 2023. But COVID-19 pandemic has affected the program, including the sourcing of funding by the Philippine Government.<br /><br />But lately, MaxDefense Philippines received information from sources that it appears that the program has progressed quietly but significantly, and that the Philippine Navy and Department of National Defense may have already decided on who the winning shipbuilder would be as of this writing.<br /></span></span></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi0-6Vj-ZVeEZ8ys9GJtG1QVkuaWTkdG94-qEjSQqmJDMlyauqaYJeczoV0zHlHXORor4AJO6OsWUtHd_177qpN3vv1lTKXSsGdszxlWE6lvfEFNXt-MaalaXg35TlVBaVfBsxuW3vKQfY/s1430/HDC-3100-1.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: helvetica;"><img border="0" data-original-height="840" data-original-width="1430" height="376" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi0-6Vj-ZVeEZ8ys9GJtG1QVkuaWTkdG94-qEjSQqmJDMlyauqaYJeczoV0zHlHXORor4AJO6OsWUtHd_177qpN3vv1lTKXSsGdszxlWE6lvfEFNXt-MaalaXg35TlVBaVfBsxuW3vKQfY/w640-h376/HDC-3100-1.JPG" width="640" /></span></a></div><span style="font-family: helvetica;"><b style="font-size: large;"><u><span style="color: red;"><br /><br />The Corvette Acquisition Project:<br /></span></u></b><br style="font-size: large;" /><span style="font-size: medium;">The acquisition of new corvettes are among the priority projects of the Philippine Navy, and has been in its Desired Force Mix procurement plan since the early 2010s. According to the PN plans, they intend to have at least 12 corvettes completed and/or ordered by the time the Horizon 3 phase of the RAFPMP is completed by 2028.</span><br /></span><p></p><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEigfH0M-daQU13sikI6BC_IROR_BurhMFqjx7McbWcUX9XvcPU1BkFSkNLs2I4wXZRLJPaqQFxasRZah0V7eO8tEzStYhCZ_nd7BkbhaDgPBEpE8Jao-GMB_lF3H6xWY1BmgOHFzvX1Kyc/s791/PN+Mod+2016.JPG" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><span style="font-family: helvetica;"><img border="0" data-original-height="322" data-original-width="791" height="260" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEigfH0M-daQU13sikI6BC_IROR_BurhMFqjx7McbWcUX9XvcPU1BkFSkNLs2I4wXZRLJPaqQFxasRZah0V7eO8tEzStYhCZ_nd7BkbhaDgPBEpE8Jao-GMB_lF3H6xWY1BmgOHFzvX1Kyc/w640-h260/PN+Mod+2016.JPG" width="640" /></span></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: helvetica;">This is part of the Philippine Navy's planned acquisitions under Horizons 1, 2 and 3 phases of the RAFPMP, indicating their desire to acquire 6 corvettes under Horizon 2. In the end, funding for only 2 new corvettes were approved for funding by the Duterte administration. Photo credits to Philippine Navy.</span></td></tr></tbody></table><div><span style="font-family: helvetica;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-family: helvetica;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: medium;">So far, that plan has not pushed through as planned, as only 1 second-hand corvette has been acquired by the PN between 2013 to 2020, in the form of the former Republic of Korea Navy <i>Pohang</i>-class Flight III corvette now known as BRP <i>Conrado Yap</i> (PS-39).</span></div><p><span style="font-family: helvetica;"><span style="font-size: medium;">Under the Horizon 2 phase of the RAFPMP, the Philippine Navy originally requested for the acquisition of 6 corvettes back in 2016, which was reduced to 4 in 2017, before the approved quantity was reduced further to just 2 in June 2018.</span><br /><br /><span style="font-size: medium;">The Philippine Navy has been conducting pre-procurement preparations for the Corvette Acquisition Project since the start of the Horizon 2 phase of the RAFPMP in 2018.</span><br /><br /><span style="font-size: medium;">Back in May 2018, MaxDefense Philippines released a blog entry discussing some of the preliminary technical requirements for the project as provided publicly by the Philippine Navy. For those who have not read it yet, you may do so on link provided below:</span><br /><br /><span style="font-size: medium;">"</span><a href="https://maxdefense.blogspot.com/2018/05/philippine-navy-releases-basic.html" style="font-size: large;"><b><span style="color: #2b00fe;"><i>Philippine Navy releases Basic Requirement for the Horizon 2 Corvette Acquisition Project</i></span></b></a><span style="font-size: medium;">" - first published 12 May 2018.</span><br /><br /><span style="font-size: medium;">The technical requirements provided in that list has evolved over the past few years, with MaxDefense Philippines receiving updates from sources although we were asked not to publish it since there are differences in how the Corvettes would be procured compared to the Frigate Acquisition Project back in the Horizon 1 phase in 2015-2016.<br /><br />While the Frigate Acquisition Project was a public bidding where technical requirements are published as required by RA 7898 Revised Government Procurement Act, the Corvette Acquisition Project will be procured via Negotiated Procurement through Government-to-Government (G2G) process, as allowed also by RA 7898 and by RA 10349 Revised AFP Modernization Act.<br /><br />Being a G2G project, the technical requirements and specifications need not be published publicly, although we were allowed by sources to see what are required by the program.</span><br /><br /><br /><b style="font-size: large;"><u><span style="color: red;">Possible Corvette Technical Equipment Fit-out:<br /></span></u></b><br /><span style="font-size: medium;">The Basic Requirements released by the Philippine Navy back in 2018 is believed to have evolved for the last 4 years, so we expect the requirements back then to have changed.</span><br /><br /><span style="font-size: medium;">But while changes were made, we expect some requirements to remain the same. The experience in acquiring the Jose Rizal-class frigates from South Korea's Hyundai Heavy Industries (HHI) could be also used as a template for the Corvette project, due to commonality concerns.</span><br /><br /><span style="font-size: medium;">Thus, it is possible to use the Jose Rizal-class frigates as template on what the corvette may look like.</span><br /><br /><span style="font-size: medium;">This includes the following requirements and characteristics:</span><br /><br /><b style="font-size: large;"><span style="color: red;">Hull:<br /></span>* Length</b><span style="font-size: medium;">: previously the PN proposed that the corvette should be more than 80 meters minimum, but the PN is expected to favour a larger ship, preferably close or even similar to the size of its </span><i style="font-size: large;">Jose Rizal</i><span style="font-size: medium;">-class frigates.</span><br /><br /><b style="font-size: large;">* Displacement</b><span style="font-size: medium;">: this will be dependent on the final size and fit-out of the ship, but we expect the PN to to shift its requirements, probably having a ship weighing at least 2,000 tons.</span><br /><b style="font-size: large;"><br />* Speed</b><span style="font-size: medium;">: to keep purchase and sustainment costs down, it is expected that the PN would stick to its original requirement of having a maximum speed of at least 25 knots, preferably more at 80% maximum continuous rating (MCR), similar to the </span><i style="font-size: large;">Jose Rizal</i><span style="font-size: medium;">-class. This allows them to skip the need for a gas turbine engine.</span><br /><b style="font-size: large;"><br />* Propulsion</b><span style="font-size: medium;">: as mentioned above, the PN may prefer to use a purely diesel-only propulsion set-up, or at best, a hybrid diesel-electric system. But most likely no gas turbines as the PN is still allergic to using them due to fuel cost and efficiency issues.</span><br /><b style="font-size: large;"><br />* Endurance</b><span style="font-size: medium;">: the PN is expected to have the new corvette to have at least 3 weeks (21 days) minimum of endurance, although it is preferred to have at least 4 weeks (28 days) and will depend on final design.</span><br /><b style="font-size: large;"><br />* Range</b><span style="font-size: medium;">: a typical minimum requirement of up to 4,000 to 4,500 nautical miles at cruising speed is expected, typical to most warships of this size.</span><br /><b style="font-size: large;"><br />* Aviation Facilities</b><span style="font-size: medium;">: a multipurpose hangar and helicopter landing deck are definitely required, and are expected to have capacity for at least a 10-ton naval helicopter which would allow operating helicopters like the AW-159 Wildcat and AW-109 Power (already in service with PN), and larger helicopters including the S-70/SH-60/MH-60 Seahawk and the NH90 naval helicopters operated by allies and close security partners like the US, Japan, and Australia. It is also expected that the ship design should also allow for operating Unmanned Aerial Vehicles (UAV).</span><br /><br /><b style="font-size: large;"><span style="color: red;">Weapons:<br /></span>* Main Gun:</b><span style="font-size: medium;"> 76mm Oto Melara Super Rapid naval gun, which makes more sense than shifting to the slower (100 rounds per minute) Hyundai WIA 76mm gun, as the PN already operates Oto Melara 76mm guns for decades. The Hyundai WIA gun remains a possibility if the PN selects a Korean design, and the shipbuilder insists to stick to it considering the acquisition is through G2G process, giving the shipbuilder some sort of power over the PN.</span><br /><b style="font-size: large;"><br />* Secondary Gun/s:</b><span style="font-size: medium;"> 30mm automatic cannon. This could be dependent on the ship's supplier, but could potentially be either the ASELSAN SMASH, the BAE Systems Mk. 38 Mod. 3, or the MSI Defence Seahawk DS30. The SMASH in already in service with the Jose Rizal-class, while the Mk. 38 Mod. 3 and Seahawk DS30 are similar to the Mk. 38 Mod. 2 and Seahawk DS25 that are already in service in other PN ships.</span><br /><b style="font-size: large;"><br />* Gun-type CIWS</b><span style="font-size: medium;">: the PN is expected to have the winning shipbuilder offer a CIWS for the corvettes. While the PN expressed its preference for the US-made Phalanx 20mm CIWS, this could again be dependent on the ship's country of origin, considering the countries shortlisted to supply the corvettes have their own national CIWS programs.</span><br /><br /><span style="font-size: medium;">* </span><b style="font-size: large;">Torpedo Tubes</b><span style="font-size: medium;">: two triple 324mm anti-submarine torpedo tubes, which could be the SEA TLS-TT similar to those installed on the Jose Rizal-class. Torpedoes to be used would be dependent on ship supplier's country of origin but there is a big chance that the PN may stick to LIGNex1's K745 Blue Shark lightweight anti-submarine torpedoes from South Korea for commonality with the PN's current inventory.</span><br /><br /><b style="font-size: large;">* Anti-Ship Missiles</b><span style="font-size: medium;">: should a Korean shipbuilder win, it is expected that the LIGNex1 SSK-700 C-Star anti-ship missile would be the staple offer. But it is also possible for the MBDA MM40 Exocet Block II due to the PN's preference for the missile.</span><br /><br /><b style="font-size: large;">* Air Defense Missile System</b><span style="font-size: medium;">: the PN is said to be looking for 16-cell VLS. Among those floated in the past include the use of Mk.41 VLS with Evolved Sea Sparrow Missile (ESSM), the MBDA VL-MICA or MBDA CAMM/Sea Ceptor system, or the K-SAAM using K-VLS system.</span><br /><br /><b style="font-size: large;"><span style="color: red;">Sensors:<br /></span>* Main Radar</b><span style="font-size: medium;">: it is expected that the PN will be requiring for a more powerful, much modern radar than the Hensoldt TRS-3D Baseline D air/surface 3D radar installed on the </span><i style="font-size: large;">Jose Rizal</i><span style="font-size: medium;">-class. It would be remembered that HHI previously offered the much modern NS-100 series 3D AESA radar to the PN. It is expected that the Hensoldt TRS-4D or the Thales NS-1000 series AESA radar would be preferred for the corvettes.</span><br /><b style="font-size: large;"><br />* Secondary Surface Search Radar</b><span style="font-size: medium;">: it is also expected for the PN to stick to the Kelvin Hughes Sharpeye surface search/navigation radar system.</span><br /><b style="font-size: large;"><br />* Fire Control Radar</b><span style="font-size: medium;">: the PN currently operates the Leonardo Selex NA-25X with the </span><i style="font-size: large;">Jose Rizal</i><span style="font-size: medium;">-class frigates, although for the corvettes it could be a much improved variant like the NA-30S which allows guidance for semi-active surface to air missiles (depends on what the SAM system the PN will select). French and Korean alternatives could also be a possibility, depending on the winning shipbuilder.</span><br /><b style="font-size: large;"><br />* Hull Mounted Sonar</b><span style="font-size: medium;">: since the PN is already using the Harris 997, and is installing the ELAC Nautic Hunter hull-mounted sonar on the </span><i style="font-size: large;">Del Pilar</i><span style="font-size: medium;">-class frigates, it is possible that the PN may stick to either of the two models for commonality. Thales Underwater Systems Bluewatcher is another potential if PN and the shipbuilder sticks to Thales subsystems.</span><br /><br /><span style="font-size: medium;">Other sensors that we expect to be installed on the new corvettes include </span><b style="font-size: large;">Communications and Radar Electronic Support Measures (C-ESM and R-ESM)</b><span style="font-size: medium;">, </span><b style="font-size: large;">Electro-Optical Tracking System (EOTS)</b><span style="font-size: medium;">, a </span><b style="font-size: large;">Towed Array Sonar System (TASS)</b><span style="font-size: medium;">, </span><b style="font-size: large;">Countermeasures Launchers</b><span style="font-size: medium;">, </span><b style="font-size: large;">Secondary Surface Search/Navigation Radar System</b><span style="font-size: medium;">, and </span><b style="font-size: large;">Tactical Air Navigation System (TACAN)</b><span style="font-size: medium;">.</span><br /><br /><span style="font-size: medium;">The PN is also expected to specify for the ship, especially the </span><b style="font-size: large;">Combat Management System (CMS)</b><span style="font-size: medium;">, to be able to integrate to the US </span><b style="font-size: large;">Tactical Data Link 16 (TDL16)</b><span style="font-size: medium;"> and </span><b style="font-size: large;">Tactical Data Link 22 (TDL22)</b><span style="font-size: medium;">.</span><br /><br /><b style="font-size: large;"><u><span style="color: red;">Competitors:<br /></span></u></b><br /><span style="font-size: medium;">Back in 2018, MaxDefense Philippines listed down potential competitors for the project. This included Germany's ThyssenKrupp Marine Systems (TKMS) with their MEKO A100 corvette design, The Netherlands' Damen with their Sigma light warship design, South Korea's Hyundai Heavy Industries (HHI) with a modified design of their HDF-2600 used for the <i>Jose Rizal</i>-class frigate, Daewoo Shipbuilding & Marine Engineering (DSME) with a new design based on a reduced Daegu-class frigate, and India's Garden Reach Shipbuilders & Engineers (GRSE) with the same design offered to the PN before for the Frigate project based on a modified <i>Kamorta</i>-class design.</span><br /><br /><span style="font-size: medium;">But this appears to have changed. MaxDefense Philippines received information from sources that only a few shipbuilders have made it into higher level of negotiations with the PN and DND:</span><br /><br /><span style="font-size: medium;">1. Dutch shipbuilder </span><b style="font-size: large;">Damen</b><span style="font-size: medium;">, which has offered its SIGMA light warship designs;</span><br /><span style="font-size: medium;">2. France's <b>Naval Group</b>, which offered its Gowind 2500 corvette design;</span><br /><span style="font-size: medium;">3. Turkish shipbuilder </span><b style="font-size: large;">ASFAT</b><span style="font-size: medium;"> made an offer based on its MILGEM family of warships including variants of the <i>Ada</i>-class corvette and <i>Istanbul</i>-class light frigate;</span><br /><span style="font-size: medium;">4. </span><b style="font-size: large;">Hyundai Heavy Industries (HHI)</b><span style="font-size: medium;"> has pitched its new HDC-3100 which is an improved variant of the <i>Jose Rizal</i>-class (HDF-2600) light frigate.</span><br /><br /><u style="font-size: large;"><b><span style="color: red;">Damen's Offer:<br /></span></b></u><br /><span style="font-size: medium;">It is unclear which specific design did Damen formally offered, although MaxDefense Philippines that it could be either the SIGMA the SIGMA 10514, which is the baseline design used for the Indonesian Navy's </span><i style="font-size: large;">Martadinata</i><span style="font-size: medium;">-class frigate and Mexican Navy's </span><i style="font-size: large;">Reformador</i><span style="font-size: medium;">-class ocean patrol vessel.</span><br /></span></p><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgDeAq3RsME8iZIo1ctq1dklu6-xt8RozNB_CUYXAz3xmSBkalUfVRcr66IlSabK0EvqXNV9SZKK0IiBRPWyBqrpPEwC1gEfrGk9-VTgi3rea-6VeCyjQtA76pZKjhnhYtGUW2rDQnq5WU/s1200/D_Htd84VAAAebPQ.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><span style="font-family: helvetica;"><img border="0" data-original-height="743" data-original-width="1200" height="396" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgDeAq3RsME8iZIo1ctq1dklu6-xt8RozNB_CUYXAz3xmSBkalUfVRcr66IlSabK0EvqXNV9SZKK0IiBRPWyBqrpPEwC1gEfrGk9-VTgi3rea-6VeCyjQtA76pZKjhnhYtGUW2rDQnq5WU/w640-h396/D_Htd84VAAAebPQ.jpg" width="640" /></span></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: helvetica;">The SIGMA 10514 design, this example as the <i>Martadinata</i>-class frigate of the Indonesian Navy. Photo credits to original source.</span></td></tr></tbody></table><p></p><p><span style="font-family: helvetica;"><br /><span style="font-size: medium;">Combat and Sensor suites are said to be locked with using Thales products as Thales and Damen appears to have an arrangement of exclusivity. Thales products may include the TACTICOS Combat Management System, the NS-100 series AESA air/surface search radar system, STIR 1.2 EO Mk. 2 fire control radar, Kingclip hull-mounted sonar, CAPTAS-2 towed array sonar, and others. It is highly possible that the subsystems are similar to original offer made by HHI to the Philippine Navy for the Frigate Acquisition Project before it was switched (despite PN's disapproval) to a less-capable but cheaper alternatives.</span></span></p><p><span style="font-family: helvetica;"><span style="font-size: medium;"><span>Weapon systems include the 76mm Oto Melara Super Rapid gun, MBDA MM40 Exocet anti-ship cruise missiles, a choice of 30mm remote-controlled weapon system and gun/missile-type close-in weapon system, 12 or 16-cell MBDA VL-MICA air defense missile system, and a two triple torpedo tubes.</span><br /><br /><span>One of Damen's selling point is the potential to build one of the corvettes in the Philippines through a local partner. Currently Damen is represented in the Philippines by Propmech Corporation, but it remains to be seen who will they partner with to build a corvette as Propmech appears to be incapable of doing this on their own.</span></span><br style="font-size: large;" /></span></p><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgluJAQvTq2pAbqFlr8y_PxjPCWU5OQ4KKICo5yy3O40t0VJoqACNq40S-PgVW7g44V6IG2d5NdEc1RznQweNBJP5ZGiWP0M23o2bPltb_ABCkifb009J7i0l-_nmFz4yRDRKQEHuqlxpE/s925/Dutch_Damen_Shipyards_Group_showcases_the_Sigma_family_modular_naval_vessels_Euronaval_Online_2020_925_001.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><span style="font-family: helvetica;"><img border="0" data-original-height="620" data-original-width="925" height="428" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgluJAQvTq2pAbqFlr8y_PxjPCWU5OQ4KKICo5yy3O40t0VJoqACNq40S-PgVW7g44V6IG2d5NdEc1RznQweNBJP5ZGiWP0M23o2bPltb_ABCkifb009J7i0l-_nmFz4yRDRKQEHuqlxpE/w640-h428/Dutch_Damen_Shipyards_Group_showcases_the_Sigma_family_modular_naval_vessels_Euronaval_Online_2020_925_001.jpg" width="640" /></span></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: helvetica;">Damen's SIGMA series of light combat ships, with the SIGMA 9313 and SIGMA 10514 among those that could potentially fill the PN's requirements. Photo credits to Navy Recognition.</span></td></tr></tbody></table><span style="font-family: helvetica;"><br /></span><p><span style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: medium;"><b><u><span style="color: red;">Naval Group's Offer:<br /></span></u></b><br /><span>We received confirmation from Philippine Navy sources that Naval Group's offer is centered on the Gowind 2500 corvette design similar to the one being built for the Egyptian Navy as the </span><i>El Fateh</i><span>-class. </span><br /><br /><span>The ship is around 102 meters long, a maximum width of 16 meters, and a displacement of around 2,500 tons, and is powered by diesel engines using Combined Diesel and Diesel (CODAD) configuration. This allows a maximum speed of up to 25 knots, a range of around 4,0000 nautical miles at 15 knots, and an endurance of 21 days.</span><br /><br /><span>This is also a shorter, slightly smaller version of the </span><i>Maharaja Lela</i><span>-class light frigates being built for the Royal Malaysian Navy, which is based on the Gowind 3100 design.</span></span></p><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiKlN3MWK9_e_C6bs6lvbvdg0KiVT5y6FbHnZ_iLR5qGZ8mHOsjneOfbs3oijD9IUcf2GqI4rQC2Fs_6TB62M73XyEAQDUffqogBc5qdk09KQCAQpvPMptw-tB-24nAim-3L_uGd9W1Kj0/s1048/Gowind+2500+Character+DCNS.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><span style="font-family: helvetica;"><img border="0" data-original-height="974" data-original-width="1048" height="594" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiKlN3MWK9_e_C6bs6lvbvdg0KiVT5y6FbHnZ_iLR5qGZ8mHOsjneOfbs3oijD9IUcf2GqI4rQC2Fs_6TB62M73XyEAQDUffqogBc5qdk09KQCAQpvPMptw-tB-24nAim-3L_uGd9W1Kj0/w640-h594/Gowind+2500+Character+DCNS.jpg" width="640" /></span></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: helvetica;">While the original Gowind 2500 uses Combined Diesel and Electric propulsion configuration, the offer to PN was said to have been changed to Combined Diesel and Diesel (CODAD). Photo credits to Naval Group.</span></td></tr></tbody></table><span style="font-family: helvetica;"><br /></span><p></p><p><span style="font-family: helvetica;"><span style="font-size: medium;"><span>The Gowind 2500 has a helicopter landing deck and hangar for a 10-ton helicopter or unmanned aerial vehicle.</span><br /><br /><span>The combat system revolves around the Naval Group's SETIS Combat Management System, and uses Thales subsystems including the NS-100 3D AESA radar or the non-AESA SMART-S Mk. II air/surface search radar, and other Thales sensors similar to those offered by Damen's corvette design.</span><br /><br /><span>Also like Damen, weapon systems include the 76mm Oto Melara Super Rapid naval gun, MBDA MM40 Exocet Block II anti-ship cruise missiles, a choice of 30mm RCWS, 16-cell MBDA VL-MICA air defense system, and two triple torpedo tubes.</span><br /><br /><span>Naval Group is also open to building one of the corvettes in the Philippines, and we were told that they have secured a local partner in case the Philippine Navy select them for the project.</span></span><br /></span></p><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhN4FglhIMOSFdm4aKuwQPF7NQf1VIuT3MsRwImpFaAwOFcMn8pU74v5nGDSbWuAMxAQHeGP6b7fQED28rFigB6fBkHqcFMNHtIMNlCZd6mE1oN_vsoLL3V82B2EzBHq81_6cbcagsoRU4/s1600/Gowind+2500+Mica+DCNS.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><span style="font-family: helvetica;"><img border="0" data-original-height="850" data-original-width="1600" height="340" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhN4FglhIMOSFdm4aKuwQPF7NQf1VIuT3MsRwImpFaAwOFcMn8pU74v5nGDSbWuAMxAQHeGP6b7fQED28rFigB6fBkHqcFMNHtIMNlCZd6mE1oN_vsoLL3V82B2EzBHq81_6cbcagsoRU4/w640-h340/Gowind+2500+Mica+DCNS.jpg" width="640" /></span></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: helvetica;">The Gowind 2500 corvette. Photo credits to MBDA.</span></td></tr></tbody></table><span style="font-family: helvetica;"><br /></span><p><span style="font-family: helvetica;"><span style="font-size: medium;"><b><u><span style="color: red;">ASFAT's Offer:<br /></span></u></b><br /><span>MaxDefense Philippines received confirmation from sources that Turkish state-owned defense group ASFAT, which represent several Turkish shipbuilders, has offered a variant of the </span><i>Ada</i><span>-class missile corvette for the Philippine Navy project.</span><br /><br /><span>The </span><i>Ada</i><span>-class is currently in service with the Turkish Naval Forces, and a derivative design was used for an order for the Pakistani Navy. The design offered to the Philippine Navy is said to be very similar to the export design used for the Pakistani Navy, which is slightly larger and heavier, uses a Combined Diesel and Diesel (CODAD) propulsion configuration, and includes a VLS system.</span></span><br style="font-size: large;" /></span></p><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjol9v7jdu_EXLkPGKnJdylmJt0-hm2DVLjkat4sbr7sFpUnb8QgG3nB6w_Vp4IEZsxiffXL13XPNE9oEcceBviFftDRfzAv3l8hyMRow0tlm0g1WsaoUDnAA1PrSPLNHQgkinB7iYi9AM/s1200/E4A8w2UVIAQxrIS.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><span style="font-family: helvetica;"><img border="0" data-original-height="600" data-original-width="1200" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjol9v7jdu_EXLkPGKnJdylmJt0-hm2DVLjkat4sbr7sFpUnb8QgG3nB6w_Vp4IEZsxiffXL13XPNE9oEcceBviFftDRfzAv3l8hyMRow0tlm0g1WsaoUDnAA1PrSPLNHQgkinB7iYi9AM/w640-h320/E4A8w2UVIAQxrIS.jpg" width="640" /></span></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: helvetica;">The Pakistan Navy's "initial" design variant of the <i>Ada</i>-class MILGEM I corvette shows several differences to the original Turkish variant, including the use of VLS, different weapons and sensors suite, etc. This design has been changed later on, although the general configuration of this variant is similar to the one offered to the Philippine Navy sans Western sensors and weapon suit. Photo credits to Defence Turkey Magazine.</span></td></tr></tbody></table><div><span style="font-family: helvetica;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: medium;"><span><br />The Combat System revolves around the HAVELSAN GENESIS Combat Management System from Turkey, which is said to be open architecture. MaxDefense Philippines also received confirmation that Turkey was willing for the transfer of technology of the GENESIS CMS to allow the Philippine Navy to reconfigure it to its own needs without relying on HAVELSAN or ASFAT. This is one of its major advantages over other shipbuilders.</span><br /><br /><span>No specifics has been shared yet to MaxDefense Philippines with regards to the sensor suite, but it is expected that sensors from Thales or Leonardo would be used including the air/surface search radar system, fire control radar, electro-optical systems, and sonar.</span><br /><br /><span>As for weapons, it will have the 76mm Oto Melara Super Rapid gun, 30mm ASELSAN SMASH naval gun, a choice of anti-ship missiles that include the Boeing Harpoon and MBDA MM40 Block II Exocet, and a selection of VLS and VLS-launched air defense missiles from Europe or USA including the VL-MICA, Mk. 41 VLS with ESSM, and others.</span><br /><br /><span>Turkey may also offer its new ROKETSAN Atmaca, but the missile is still under development and may not be acceptable at the moment.</span><br /><br /><span>ASFAT has also opened the possibility of offering a derivative of the upcoming </span><i>Istanbul</i><span>-class light frigate as well, which is larger, heavier and longer than the </span><i>Ada</i><span>-class, but will have more space and endurance than the </span><i>Ada</i><span>-class.</span><br /><br /><span>The only issue with the <i>Istanbul</i>-class is said to be the price, which is beyond the Php14 billion/ship budget of the Philippine Navy. But considering the project is financed via soft-loan, additional funding might be allowed if the PN believes the larger ship is a better option.<br /><br />Another advantage of ASFAT is their offer to build one of the corvettes in the Philippines through a local partner.</span></span></div><div><span style="font-family: helvetica;"><br /></span></div><span style="font-family: helvetica;"><br /></span><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiEzw2qWmkqJa6bJgQGA5_A4Ta4BwDXBPK8R0BxU1TtQhO_jC-p-ibjbxhPrl7RU-04qoXpV5ARmMFivDIjj-uQbRxUSjAqJVMkEilGnutMy-wrbx5_LJY3L2MSGbAsAFsLSFWX7wTfUiw/s1024/MILGEM_wm.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><span style="font-family: helvetica;"><img border="0" data-original-height="603" data-original-width="1024" height="376" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiEzw2qWmkqJa6bJgQGA5_A4Ta4BwDXBPK8R0BxU1TtQhO_jC-p-ibjbxhPrl7RU-04qoXpV5ARmMFivDIjj-uQbRxUSjAqJVMkEilGnutMy-wrbx5_LJY3L2MSGbAsAFsLSFWX7wTfUiw/w640-h376/MILGEM_wm.jpg" width="640" /></span></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: helvetica;">A comparison between the <i>Ada</i>-class corvette (above) and <i>Istanbul</i>-class frigate (below), both of which are products of the Turkish Navy's MILGEM programme. Take note the specs of the <i>Ada</i>-class shown above is based on Turkey's domestic model. Offer to PN is said to be slightly larger, slower and heavier.</span></td></tr></tbody></table><p></p><p><b style="color: red;"><u><span style="font-family: helvetica;"><br /><span style="font-size: medium;">Hyundai Heavy Industries' Offer:</span></span></u></b></p><p><span style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: medium;">MaxDefense Philippines has received confirmation from industry and Philippine Navy sources that HHI has indeed offered their HDC-3100 (also known as HDF-3100) design for the PN's Corvette Project.<br /><br />The design is an improved and enlarged version of the HDF-2600 design, which was the baseline design used for the <i>Jose Rizal</i>-class frigates built for the Philippine Navy in 2017.<br /><br />Of the shipbuilders shortlisted, only HHI was able to publicize their design, and according to our sources, HHI was very specific on the CGI they released to what the proposal is to the Philippine Navy.<br /><br />As expected, the ship's combat systems revolve around the Hanwha Systems Naval Shield Integrated Combat Management System (I-CMS), and will be having its latest Baseline 3 variant similar to those to be used on the Republic of Korea Navy's FFX-III frigates.<br /><br />It would be remembered that Hanwha Systems presented the Naval Shield Baseline 3 to the Philippine Navy during ADAS 2018.<br /></span></p><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiNZWB2hDqDD4efB9x-6NwmE6SoOVeNPSrAb2jU_bGHcDeLokMTlJzcne00kIjVVZtmILJikGdT99MVaFuhmIkhaBMX28hgYyWKmdZ0e_PBaHv-o8yR6xkPMQyibhgPQ2GOhWQSwjFD0HI/s700/46183923_845859158918076_6031811306967793664_n.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><span style="font-family: helvetica;"><img border="0" data-original-height="700" data-original-width="700" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiNZWB2hDqDD4efB9x-6NwmE6SoOVeNPSrAb2jU_bGHcDeLokMTlJzcne00kIjVVZtmILJikGdT99MVaFuhmIkhaBMX28hgYyWKmdZ0e_PBaHv-o8yR6xkPMQyibhgPQ2GOhWQSwjFD0HI/w640-h640/46183923_845859158918076_6031811306967793664_n.jpg" width="640" /></span></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: helvetica;">Photo shows former PN FOIC Vice Adm. Robert Empedrad (ret) being briefed on the Naval Shield Baseline 3 ICMS by a Hanwha Systems official during ADAS 2018. Photo taken from Hanwha Systems.</span></td></tr></tbody></table><span style="font-family: helvetica;"><br /></span><p></p><p><span style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: medium;"><span>MaxDefense Philippines is still waiting for further confirmation on the sensor and weapon systems suite offered by HHI, but was told that those seen in the CGI from HHI is exactly what HHI offered to the Philippine Navy. So with this, we'll use HHI's HDC-3100 CGI for basis of our analysis.<br /><br />The ship is larger than the <i>Jose Rizal</i>-class frigates - with a length of at least 114 meters and a width of 14.8 meters, with a displacement of around 3,100 tons. Compare this to the <i>Jose Rizal</i>-class at around 107.5 meters long, 13.8 meters wide, and displaces at around 2,600 tons.</span><br /></span></p><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjT_fOHEqQa_RmlVpNZjc0guuWRo1ch-Ed75w4nJK6hmythPaoFbnjwd1jeZNZsJGB3YsvkAoK4jNqhVFS5l3_nmJa9KHCCiZ8DFeFwjsnR7gsPqty73Hha5-rrV60KasSFGY5c7H_-16I/s1182/HDC-3100-8.JPG" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><span style="font-family: helvetica;"><img border="0" data-original-height="626" data-original-width="1182" height="338" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjT_fOHEqQa_RmlVpNZjc0guuWRo1ch-Ed75w4nJK6hmythPaoFbnjwd1jeZNZsJGB3YsvkAoK4jNqhVFS5l3_nmJa9KHCCiZ8DFeFwjsnR7gsPqty73Hha5-rrV60KasSFGY5c7H_-16I/w640-h338/HDC-3100-8.JPG" width="640" /></span></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: helvetica;">Comparison between the HDC-3100 (above), the HDF-3000 frigate aka <i>Incheon</i>-class (middle), and the HDF-2600 frigate aka <i>Jose Rizal</i>-class (bottom). The HDF-2600 and HDC-3100 both have a maximum speed of only around 25 knots due to lack of gas turbine engines, while the HDF-3000 is equipped with a GE LM2500 gas turbine in CODAG configuration allowing for higher speeds. Photo credits to HHI.</span></td></tr></tbody></table><span style="font-family: helvetica;"><br /></span><p><span style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: medium;">Looking at the CGI, starting from the front end:<br /><br />Main gun is a 76mm caliber, with a choice of either the Hyundai WIA 76mm gun with 100 rounds per minute capacity, or the Oto Melara 76mm Super Rapid gun with a 120 rounds per minute capacity. Most likely the Philippine Navy will insist on Oto Melara as it is already in service with the PN, although as mentioned earlier, HHI may insist to use the Hyundai WIA gun considering the project is financed through soft loan and the South Korean Government may have an upper hand during negotiations.<br /><br />A 16-cell Vertical Launching System (VLS) can be found behind the 76mm main gun, and it appears to be the VLS for the MBDA VL-MICA air defense missile system, capable of firing 16 VL-MICA surface-to-air missiles.</span></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh0WdKTMJPHmzHOC2G6xx_imsmYqwNrW-I-yr8QPNMTzRhJATvdY4_qr7ZL1pdUSmx3fxjvZcv9MXjT2EwlomqTSKfphKWCKmiMpHgQPdkbkY1XCkVx7kHDnmhW2dYokvn7eplky7igVfI/s1128/HDC-3100-2.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: helvetica;"><img border="0" data-original-height="766" data-original-width="1128" height="434" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh0WdKTMJPHmzHOC2G6xx_imsmYqwNrW-I-yr8QPNMTzRhJATvdY4_qr7ZL1pdUSmx3fxjvZcv9MXjT2EwlomqTSKfphKWCKmiMpHgQPdkbkY1XCkVx7kHDnmhW2dYokvn7eplky7igVfI/w640-h434/HDC-3100-2.JPG" width="640" /></span></a></div><span style="font-family: helvetica;"><br /></span><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj6sm2q6QBdSeKcmsD7BzaH6nCORXmsMMGRkVsbE69naoa0Fn6GXZfhyBZnsE3cx3xnEQo1O4OTrRiIFMZcYMZw8YakL3p2DRCLygdAFdsZuEFVE9GfRsV63Dp85y1GTQ4Gvom03AnwDxs/s694/HDC-3100-3.JPG" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><span style="font-family: helvetica;"><img border="0" data-original-height="457" data-original-width="694" height="422" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj6sm2q6QBdSeKcmsD7BzaH6nCORXmsMMGRkVsbE69naoa0Fn6GXZfhyBZnsE3cx3xnEQo1O4OTrRiIFMZcYMZw8YakL3p2DRCLygdAFdsZuEFVE9GfRsV63Dp85y1GTQ4Gvom03AnwDxs/w640-h422/HDC-3100-3.JPG" width="640" /></span></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: helvetica;">The front end of the HDC-3100, with the CGI showing what appears to be a Hyundai WIA 76mm naval gun, and a 16-cell VLS that fits the appearance of the MBDA VL-MICA air defense system. Cranes are also visible beside the VLS launchers, which will assist in loading/reloading launching boxes on the VLS system. Photo taken from HHI.</span></td></tr></tbody></table><span style="font-family: helvetica;"><br /></span><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: helvetica;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhZIJ02B6gJWlRGkwiMrSJcdEp5ekN190wcODcT1b07HHL2W7-A3O5EEoLqOV2Xy4FRESNN2eAx0vl8OSyKTs-e7e7QDIGOcg5tqz8UF-8I5VVmN1nRmsquHiYbpuN1H7DWHTKe3NVX-jw/s1000/Fregat+PKR+10514.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"></a></span><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: helvetica;"><img border="0" data-original-height="525" data-original-width="1000" height="336" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhZIJ02B6gJWlRGkwiMrSJcdEp5ekN190wcODcT1b07HHL2W7-A3O5EEoLqOV2Xy4FRESNN2eAx0vl8OSyKTs-e7e7QDIGOcg5tqz8UF-8I5VVmN1nRmsquHiYbpuN1H7DWHTKe3NVX-jw/w640-h336/Fregat+PKR+10514.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" width="640" /></span></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: helvetica;">The VL-MICA VLS, container and launcher, which is similar to the ones in the HDC-3100 CGI. </span></td></tr></tbody></table><span style="font-family: helvetica;"><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhZIJ02B6gJWlRGkwiMrSJcdEp5ekN190wcODcT1b07HHL2W7-A3O5EEoLqOV2Xy4FRESNN2eAx0vl8OSyKTs-e7e7QDIGOcg5tqz8UF-8I5VVmN1nRmsquHiYbpuN1H7DWHTKe3NVX-jw/s1000/Fregat+PKR+10514.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"></a></span></div><span style="font-family: helvetica;"><br /></span><div><span style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: medium;">The ship's mast also show what appears to be a Hensoldt TRS-4D AESA air/surface search radar system, a Kelvin Hughes Sharpeye navigation and secondary surface search radar system, a Selex ES NA-25X fire control radar, VSAT/satellite communications (SATCOM) system antennas, a Tactical Air Navigation (TACAN) system antenna, and Electronic Countermeasures (ECM) antennas.</span></div><div><p><span style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: medium;">It also shows four Countermeasures Launchers, most likely the Terma C-Guard system.</span></p><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjXjsr7UeI9cqULx6Oa6Ow0FA-myxqS38v5AD07V6vCBinZEVatmERCwyRk1Pu8DEadnHhd3a4eP_diSvQJrUfnC6GrWF1kIumrfFI44RtMZYh-Av48ltL63u58jO6Scd-BilYWsUVfcLg/s977/HDC-3100-4.JPG" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><span style="font-family: helvetica;"><img border="0" data-original-height="661" data-original-width="977" height="432" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjXjsr7UeI9cqULx6Oa6Ow0FA-myxqS38v5AD07V6vCBinZEVatmERCwyRk1Pu8DEadnHhd3a4eP_diSvQJrUfnC6GrWF1kIumrfFI44RtMZYh-Av48ltL63u58jO6Scd-BilYWsUVfcLg/w640-h432/HDC-3100-4.JPG" width="640" /></span></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: helvetica;">Mast and bridge section of the HDC-3100 design. Photo taken from HHI.</span></td></tr></tbody></table><p><span style="font-family: helvetica;"><br /><span style="font-size: medium;">Superstructure midsection shows an open deck before the funnel, but covered from the funnel to the rear, which improves reducing radar cross section compared to the HDF-2600 / <i>Jose Rizal</i>-class.<br /><br />Two rigid-hull inflatable boats (RHIBs) are seen but covered by a retractable gate, while the triple torpedo launchers were moved to a lower deck and is covered also by a retractable gate.<br /><br />Also seen are two quadruple launchers for anti-ship missiles, most likely the LIGNex1 SSM-700K C-Star anti-ship cruise missiles.<br /><br />Another retractable gate can be seen behind those for the RHIBs, which are open-able during launching of anti-ship missiles and not burn the ship's superstructure walls.</span><br /></span></p><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhj2xE15_-eHdTMRTF_gtfxYuk5s_wM9IRTNsgFe-O-Z6MpEPdZjMcqMF4n27str40Pajyso0oZN_2QuXfBRsQy8ngEzndSKD5W5qjbdd3OplGPeI47k6fqsPUUCnbaWa8OtjyY5vFnKo8/s666/HDC-3100-5.JPG" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><span style="font-family: helvetica;"><img border="0" data-original-height="447" data-original-width="666" height="430" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhj2xE15_-eHdTMRTF_gtfxYuk5s_wM9IRTNsgFe-O-Z6MpEPdZjMcqMF4n27str40Pajyso0oZN_2QuXfBRsQy8ngEzndSKD5W5qjbdd3OplGPeI47k6fqsPUUCnbaWa8OtjyY5vFnKo8/w640-h430/HDC-3100-5.JPG" width="640" /></span></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: helvetica;">Midsection of the HDC-3100 design. Photo credits to HHI.</span></td></tr></tbody></table><p><span style="font-family: helvetica;"><br /><span style="font-size: medium;">At the hangar superstructure, the upper deck features a gun-based Close-in Weapon System (CIWS), which appears to be similar to Hanwha Systems' CIWS-II design, although there is no visible medium-caliber RCWS.<br /><br />MaxDefense Philippines believes that a redesign of the hangar's upper deck would be made to allow the CIWS to sit on a higher platform, and allowing a RCWS to be at a lower position.</span></span></p><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhoxVTHJUFLKgSqhyZLXFY9YAxTAV-m_3WJTHs18rVogikZLJlTGm1NJjGFIfXUhyphenhyphenLKh3vQAVsCwxAl_7HwhbrgTs-Uj2DxFMb82JaCi9Ux8cIdnxr6YByHXxoE8nX_8O8PHBa5PzNGsUU/s601/HDC-3100-6.JPG" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><span style="font-family: helvetica;"><img border="0" data-original-height="390" data-original-width="601" height="416" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhoxVTHJUFLKgSqhyZLXFY9YAxTAV-m_3WJTHs18rVogikZLJlTGm1NJjGFIfXUhyphenhyphenLKh3vQAVsCwxAl_7HwhbrgTs-Uj2DxFMb82JaCi9Ux8cIdnxr6YByHXxoE8nX_8O8PHBa5PzNGsUU/w640-h416/HDC-3100-6.JPG" width="640" /></span></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: helvetica;">Hangar section of the HDC-3100 design. Photo credits to HHI.</span></td></tr></tbody></table><span style="font-family: helvetica;"><br /><span style="font-size: medium;"><br />A helicopter landing deck can be found on the aft, expected to have a capacity of at least 10 tons, enough to allow the AgustaWestland AW-159 Wildcat, Sikorsky MH-60 Seahawk, or even the NH Industries NH90 naval helicopter.</span><br /><br /></span><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgqZLlhBoHlMJBFxlF8GMvdP16NQezv2Gxuhp6zOl8Uwm6rIGzk59Pj2c7jr3G_kY4lJzxxaHdaWwSVb8R0GiPl3-6EjhIgzPCuXClJijJ1qmjLvGxARmtgT8HHgPfRbNhDhNgMn5JPjwM/s753/HDC-3100-7.JPG" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><span style="font-family: helvetica;"><img border="0" data-original-height="487" data-original-width="753" height="414" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgqZLlhBoHlMJBFxlF8GMvdP16NQezv2Gxuhp6zOl8Uwm6rIGzk59Pj2c7jr3G_kY4lJzxxaHdaWwSVb8R0GiPl3-6EjhIgzPCuXClJijJ1qmjLvGxARmtgT8HHgPfRbNhDhNgMn5JPjwM/w640-h414/HDC-3100-7.JPG" width="640" /></span></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: helvetica;">The helideck section. Photo credits to HHI.</span></td></tr></tbody></table><p><span style="font-family: helvetica;"><br /><span style="font-size: medium;">Take note that since this is a basic CGI of the HDC-3100 design, further improvements can be made once the Critical Design Review (CDR) is done. One would remember that the pre-CDR CGI of the <i>Jose Rizal</i>-class is slightly different from the final output.<br /><br />Compared to its other competitors, HHI did not offer to build any corvette in the Philippines. Instead, all work will be in HHI's Ulsan naval shipyard. Apparently, this allows to lower down cost, compared to providing technology transfer which is expensive vis a vis the project's budget.<br /></span><span><br /><span style="color: red; font-size: medium; font-weight: bold;"><u>Why Focus on HHI's Corvette Offer?:</u></span></span></span></p><p><span style="font-family: helvetica;"><span style="font-size: medium;">Readers may have noticed that our analysis for the corvette offerings of the 4 companies are more comprehensive on HHI's HDC-3100 compared to the 3 other offerings from Turkey, France and The Netherlands.<br /><br />This is because so far, HHI has released more information publicly than the other 3 companies. This could only mean 1 thing - that HHI may have already reached a certain level of advancement on the project compared to the other 3 companies.<br /><br />This is not just because of the availability of a CGI of its offer, but also based on information provided by Philippine Navy and industry sources to MaxDefense Philippines.<br /><br />Apparently, HHI and the South Korean Ministry of National Defense (MND) has already advanced more in its negotiations with the Philippine Navy and Philippines Department of National Defense (DND), to the point that Terms of Reference (TOR) is already being prepared, which would lead to a Notice of Award (NOA) being given to HHI.<br /><br />Terms of Reference is the document that is a guideline that would be part of the contract between the two parties, and having this arranged with a certain company only means that deal is almost nearing completion.<br /><br />Not only that, we also received confirmation from South Korean sources indicating that HHI's naval shipyard in Ulsan has already started preparation in anticipation of an award and eventual construction of the new corvettes (MaxDefense Philippines thanks its South Korean sources for this information).<br /><br />This can be also corroborated by the lack of further discussion between the Philippine Navy / DND team and the 3 other shipbuilders. In comparison, HHI's executive vice president and director for Marketing and Sales Mr. Moon Young Park was meeting the Philippine Navy leadership as late as 03 August 2021.</span><br /></span></p><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh9s5v0WpE94TfM6g_0hYMVJb-MJZs0yQza4UreUTFCBrWD1NKbITbi7WV_D8HUaOjYvQ6oaFAfV_M7P4lIcjpaQKikZYvOcuwuYdqKRN1eNln9gRHpBLymUJEtj-rG_TQkXN-w08iWWiE/s1000/228011623_10158596880902956_1735249980041277984_n.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><span style="font-family: helvetica;"><img border="0" data-original-height="665" data-original-width="1000" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh9s5v0WpE94TfM6g_0hYMVJb-MJZs0yQza4UreUTFCBrWD1NKbITbi7WV_D8HUaOjYvQ6oaFAfV_M7P4lIcjpaQKikZYvOcuwuYdqKRN1eNln9gRHpBLymUJEtj-rG_TQkXN-w08iWWiE/w640-h426/228011623_10158596880902956_1735249980041277984_n.jpg" width="640" /></span></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: helvetica;">HHI Executive VP and Director for Marketing and Sales Mr. Moon Young Park meets PN leadership on 03 August 2021 in Manila. Photo credits to Philippine Navy.<br /></span></td></tr></tbody></table><span style="font-family: helvetica;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-family: helvetica;"><b><u><span style="color: red;"><br /><span style="font-size: medium;">Does this mean HHI is the Winning Shipbuilder?:<br /></span></span></u></b><span style="font-size: medium;"><br />Not necessarily, or not yet. While they have the highest chance of getting the project, until a Notice of Award is given, a Contract signed and the Notice to Proceed issued, everything can still happen.<br /><br />The biggest obstacle though is lack of funding from the national government - if the Department of Budget and Management (DBM) does not release the initial funding for the Php28 billion project, the deal won't push through. This can happen even if Malacanang approves the deal to proceed.<br /><br />Another is on the delays in implementing the project. This could be due to lack of funding (as stated earlier), or because of bureaucratic red tape. If this project does not reach contract signing before the end of the 2021, it can be considered a "midnight deal" if still pushed just months before the national elections in May 2022.<br /><br />But another factor that can delay the project will depend on the Philippine Navy - will HHI and the PN reach an agreement on the deal's details while it is still clear for a deal to proceed?<br /><br />We expect that HHI would be pushy on its offer, and may steamroll the Philippine Navy's Technical Working Group (TWG) and Leadership especially now that the deal is through soft loans by the shipbuilder's country of origin. If both parties agree on the final inclusions of the deal, then the Philippine Navy can pass the burden to complete the deal to the DND and the National Government.<br /><br />=============<br /><br />MaxDefense Philippines will continue to monitor the developments on this project, especially that the Philippine Navy is not publicizing the details of the project due to its G2G nature, unlike the previous Frigate Acquisition Project that was acquired through public bidding.<br /><br />We are still hopeful that the government would finalize the deal before the end of year 2021, no matter who the winning shipbuilder and corvette design would be selected.</span></span></div><div><span style="font-family: helvetica;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-family: helvetica;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-family: helvetica;"><span>===============<br /></span><span>===============<br /></span><span>First edit and release: 09 August 2021<br />Copyright MaxDefense Philippines<br /></span><span><span style="clear: left; display: inline; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiYWXCNgEKjy9PvhyXm0jmw-UnztULhhX9_GTnNx_JypEfRUOe07Cmiy5RovWdombNpNjDgXqOLGsfr3ebf42GCzvvv9mgDCJupEGN2BfPWB07rMXH1PWyeHsOmXJDQ-oAMnohCrulGckI/s1600/20160919_073729.jpg" style="clear: left; display: inline; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="227" data-original-width="961" height="75" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiYWXCNgEKjy9PvhyXm0jmw-UnztULhhX9_GTnNx_JypEfRUOe07Cmiy5RovWdombNpNjDgXqOLGsfr3ebf42GCzvvv9mgDCJupEGN2BfPWB07rMXH1PWyeHsOmXJDQ-oAMnohCrulGckI/s320/20160919_073729.jpg" width="320" /></a></span></span></span></div><div><br /></div>max monterohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16217644456257635987noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3838050795464426329.post-6970744936090481462021-07-22T16:07:00.003+10:002021-07-28T01:42:33.113+10:00Philippine Coast Guard's first 97-meter Multi-Role Response Vessel to launch soon<p><span style="font-family: arial;"><span style="font-size: medium;"> <br /><br />The Philippine Coast Guard is expecting good news in the next dew days.<br /><br />Its largest ship acquisition to date, the 94-meter <b><u>Multi-Role Response Vessels (MRRV)</u></b> it ordered from Japan's Mitsubishi Heavy Industries, will reach an important milestone this week.<br /><br />But before that, our previous report that the new MRRVs are in fact 97 meters long, not 94 meters as suggested during the conceptual and contract signing phases of the project.<br /><br />The first ship of the class, with hull number 9701 (97 meters, hull 01) which is still unnamed yet, is <b><u>scheduled for launching on Monday, 26 July 2021 at MHI's shipyard in Japan</u></b>.</span><br /></span></p><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgqooP0eDNileMKWA-1heBN9XMWVEU9t0OnAfvvg5r8-ZLIviXZ4OtA4aeGbYlsdA5aoQ0nB20WIsSzzAVQiWaZv-cwUN73KtwOGfv9PGL0CLRvLusLrlZv3EXrtLVv_aRSjMN6_ilTmL4/s943/217827756_179298817566857_3322923301286546656_n.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><span style="font-family: arial;"><img border="0" data-original-height="708" data-original-width="943" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgqooP0eDNileMKWA-1heBN9XMWVEU9t0OnAfvvg5r8-ZLIviXZ4OtA4aeGbYlsdA5aoQ0nB20WIsSzzAVQiWaZv-cwUN73KtwOGfv9PGL0CLRvLusLrlZv3EXrtLVv_aRSjMN6_ilTmL4/w640-h480/217827756_179298817566857_3322923301286546656_n.jpg" width="640" /></span></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial;">Hull number 9701 is the first ship of the class of this new 97-meter MRRV for the PCG. Majority of its external components including radar and other subsystems are already installed on the mast. Photo shared to MaxDefense Philippines by sources.</span></td></tr></tbody></table><span style="font-family: arial;"><br /></span><p></p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;"><span>While there is still no name decided as of this writing, MaxDefense Philippines was told that a female hero's name would be used.</span><br /><br /><span>Among those in the shortlist of names are Melchora Aquino, also known as the revolutionary Tandang Sora, and Teresa Magbanua, a Filipino revolutionary who also participated in resistance against the United States during the Philippine-American War, and Japan during World War II.</span><br /><br /><span>Photos of the ship during its final few days before launching are shown below. Note the hull number 9701, and the aft of the ship still without a name painted on it.</span></span><div><span style="font-family: arial;"><br /></span><div style="font-size: 16px; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEixSV5P-Bamb7scY2KMJvF6VysDoihjzAYUFmWGEUWr1uEkqLW5e5Dr_5j6ihau_zdQOsF7Um5zUl369NAyf8M4v5MKAHUaH3Ctj1mnGtJfDN-fq7hdnmoRWSqUpDncoulM9pIJN_eSrbk/s943/219145994_967625157403772_5416622322600012739_n.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: arial;"><img border="0" data-original-height="708" data-original-width="943" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEixSV5P-Bamb7scY2KMJvF6VysDoihjzAYUFmWGEUWr1uEkqLW5e5Dr_5j6ihau_zdQOsF7Um5zUl369NAyf8M4v5MKAHUaH3Ctj1mnGtJfDN-fq7hdnmoRWSqUpDncoulM9pIJN_eSrbk/w640-h480/219145994_967625157403772_5416622322600012739_n.jpg" width="640" /></span></a></div><span><b><u><span style="color: red; font-family: arial;"><br /></span></u></b></span></div><div style="font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal;"><span style="font-family: arial;"><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="font-size: 16px; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiPcN-l9LcwHTEs6H_nX7qJMyEMX8sH4iAuKVERTeW9yQ_vqNaAYT1EsCSxEcVYqbtTh4ptMUxi8ZedIsxGJg1kTlq9G7SwmwOPKxkbDtErG6S_UmQjwC0CXYWxe5Z6xUMfXBA2WKTpSak/s942/220840040_334731661462126_8702429601490896522_n.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="708" data-original-width="942" height="482" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiPcN-l9LcwHTEs6H_nX7qJMyEMX8sH4iAuKVERTeW9yQ_vqNaAYT1EsCSxEcVYqbtTh4ptMUxi8ZedIsxGJg1kTlq9G7SwmwOPKxkbDtErG6S_UmQjwC0CXYWxe5Z6xUMfXBA2WKTpSak/w640-h482/220840040_334731661462126_8702429601490896522_n.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small;">The aft of the ship, showing the helicopter deck and hangar opening., twin screws and dual rudder. Take note, no name has been painted on the ship yet. Photo shared to MaxDefense Philippines by sources.</span></td></tr></tbody></table><br /><span><br /><span style="font-size: medium;">The launching of the first ship of the class marks a major milestone for the project, and is remarkable considering the quick turn-around time from contract signing to construction.<br /><br />The ship will have its final fit-out works to proceed afterwards and will be done with the ship already floating at pier. </span></span><span style="font-size: medium;"><br /><br /><span>This will be followed by at-pier tests of its subsystems, before conducting its sea trials which will later on involved personnel from the Philippine Coast Guard.</span></span><br style="font-size: medium;" /><br style="font-size: medium;" /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhbtOomdkc0mOitIJBYwSKLqgzFQ5qW3ZVpe2j3XN03sZzPyS-53NOGOxeqnyhVzpOflnKqIWpV6moKRFxg-m2WVDq2YU1SxbHl1JjbNK-S5TjqkR3WaGwLCK1oZ0F6VvufR0HZbAMszNw/s943/212462627_569955314421381_6766969270024254540_n.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="708" data-original-width="943" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhbtOomdkc0mOitIJBYwSKLqgzFQ5qW3ZVpe2j3XN03sZzPyS-53NOGOxeqnyhVzpOflnKqIWpV6moKRFxg-m2WVDq2YU1SxbHl1JjbNK-S5TjqkR3WaGwLCK1oZ0F6VvufR0HZbAMszNw/w640-h480/212462627_569955314421381_6766969270024254540_n.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span>No doubt, its a ship for the Philippine Coast Guard. Photo shared to MaxDefense Philippines by sources.</span></td></tr></tbody></table><br /><span><br /><span style="font-size: medium;">The new 97-meter Multi-Role Response Vessels were based on a revised <i>Kunigami</i>-class offshore patrol vessel used by the Japan Coast Guard, as shown below. </span></span><span style="font-size: medium;"><br /><br /></span><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="font-size: 16px; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhb30Yj77DvuxoaC2lVYwfGAtr2w6jI1aa5T9pj_zXHWjg6ywEyfiKC4CKyEsnIc9RTQw5bE9Qxl9prQl9hNLecKkB7tHGI4LFlgKBAygCeArESxPRyomulaZx968M8tFlO6qWX8ghJ86c/s1600/pix7.JPG" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><span><img border="0" data-original-height="284" data-original-width="612" height="296" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhb30Yj77DvuxoaC2lVYwfGAtr2w6jI1aa5T9pj_zXHWjg6ywEyfiKC4CKyEsnIc9RTQw5bE9Qxl9prQl9hNLecKkB7tHGI4LFlgKBAygCeArESxPRyomulaZx968M8tFlO6qWX8ghJ86c/s640/pix7.JPG" width="640" /></span></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption"><span><span style="font-size: small;">Some photos of <i>Kunigami</i>-class large patrol vessels of the JCG. Credits to original sources of the photos.</span><br /><br /></span></td></tr></tbody></table></span></div><div style="font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal;"><span style="font-family: arial;"><span><br /><span style="font-size: medium;">While the ship's length was increased to 97 meters, it is expected that the basic requirements originally set for the project may remain, or will be very close to the final product.</span><br /></span><b style="font-size: 16px;"><u><span style="color: red;"><br /></span></u></b></span><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="font-size: 16px; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial;"><img border="0" data-original-height="661" data-original-width="1019" height="414" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjTqO9qcKHE6ydwXvtfWd4zySfp3Z1yRLJZ3mmIz29ufOkRY01pFaIDA2vl8YwCPK3sYlCTiHGIWmfl9zuhYvM9k75w4z_7PNg5e3AJHSFyMP2guINpWQ0QcvlGRrqYcC5PkEdC5rN2HHk/s640/pix4.png" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" width="640" /></span></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: small;">Basic technical requirements of the MRRV, as indicated in the tender documents. Photo taken from DOTr/PCG bid documents.</span></td></tr></tbody></table><span style="font-family: arial;"><br /><span><b><u><span style="color: red;"></span></u></b><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjTqO9qcKHE6ydwXvtfWd4zySfp3Z1yRLJZ3mmIz29ufOkRY01pFaIDA2vl8YwCPK3sYlCTiHGIWmfl9zuhYvM9k75w4z_7PNg5e3AJHSFyMP2guINpWQ0QcvlGRrqYcC5PkEdC5rN2HHk/s1600/pix4.png" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><span></span></a><b><u><span style="color: red;"><br /></span></u></b><span style="font-size: medium;"><span>The ship has an overall length of 96.6 meters, a maximum width of 11.5 meters, a draft of 4.3 meters.<br /><br />Delivery is still expected to be made by early May 2022, if no issues will be encountered considering COVID-19 pandemic is still a worldwide issue that may affect the movement of parts and technical personnel involved in completing the ship.<br /><br />Construction of second unit with hull number 9702 is currently ongoing, and is expected to be launched by November 2021. This means the second ship is currently ahead of schedule, which is good news for the PCG as well. <br /></span><b><u><span style="color: red;"><br />Project Summary:</span></u></b></span></span></span></div><div style="font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;"><br /><b><u>94-meter Multi-Role Response Vessel </u></b><b><u>Acquisition Project</u></b><br /><br /><i>Note: Edited as of 22 July 2021:</i></span></div><div style="font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;"><span face=""arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif"><br /></span><span face=""arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif"><b>* End User:</b> Philippine Coast Guard<br /><br /><b>* Quantity:</b> 2 nos.<br /><br /><b>* Project ABC:</b> Php7,000,000,000.00<br /><br /><b>* Acquisition Mode:</b> Limited Source Bidding<br /><br /><b>* Source of Funding:</b> Official Development Assistance (ODA) by Japan JICA, ODA Loan No. PH-P263.<br /><br /><b>* Winning Proponent:</b> Mitsubishi Shipbuilding Co. Ltd.<br /><br /><b>* Product for Delivery:</b> 2 nos. modified <i>Kunigami</i>-class 97-meter patrol vessel</span></span></div><div style="font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;"><b><br />* Contract Price:</b><span face=""arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif"> JPY14,550,000,000.00, approx. Php6,790,000,000.00</span></span></div><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;"></span></p><div><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;"><b>* Searching Hashtag:</b><span> #PCG94mMRRV #PCG97mMRRV</span></span></div><div style="-webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; color: black; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; letter-spacing: normal; orphans: 2; text-align: left; text-decoration-color: initial; text-decoration-style: initial; text-decoration-thickness: initial; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; widows: 2; word-spacing: 0px;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;"><br /><b>* Status:</b> Notice of Award (NOA) released 17 January 2020 in favor of Mitsubishi Shipbuilding Co. Ltd. Contract Signing and release of Notice to Proceed (NTP) held on 07 February 2020. First steel cutting held on December 2020. Launching for first ship of the class scheduled by 26 July 2021. Second ship construction ongoing, scheduled to launch on November 2021.</span></div><div style="-webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; color: black; font-size: 16px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; letter-spacing: normal; orphans: 2; text-align: left; text-decoration-color: initial; text-decoration-style: initial; text-decoration-thickness: initial; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; widows: 2; word-spacing: 0px;"><span style="font-family: arial;"><br /></span></div><div style="-webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; color: black; font-size: 16px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; letter-spacing: normal; orphans: 2; text-align: left; text-decoration-color: initial; text-decoration-style: initial; text-decoration-thickness: initial; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; widows: 2; word-spacing: 0px;"><span style="font-family: arial;"><p style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: medium;"><span style="font-family: arial;"><span>===============<br /><span style="font-weight: 400;">===============</span><br /><span><b>First release: 22 July 2021<br /></b></span></span><span><b>Copyright MaxDefense Philippines</b><br /></span></span></p><div style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: medium; font-weight: 400;"><span style="clear: left; display: inline; font-family: arial; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiYWXCNgEKjy9PvhyXm0jmw-UnztULhhX9_GTnNx_JypEfRUOe07Cmiy5RovWdombNpNjDgXqOLGsfr3ebf42GCzvvv9mgDCJupEGN2BfPWB07rMXH1PWyeHsOmXJDQ-oAMnohCrulGckI/s1600/20160919_073729.jpg" style="clear: left; display: inline; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="227" data-original-width="961" height="75" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiYWXCNgEKjy9PvhyXm0jmw-UnztULhhX9_GTnNx_JypEfRUOe07Cmiy5RovWdombNpNjDgXqOLGsfr3ebf42GCzvvv9mgDCJupEGN2BfPWB07rMXH1PWyeHsOmXJDQ-oAMnohCrulGckI/s320/20160919_073729.jpg" width="320" /></a></span></div></span></div><div style="-webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; color: black; font-size: 16px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; letter-spacing: normal; orphans: 2; text-align: left; text-decoration-color: initial; text-decoration-style: initial; text-decoration-thickness: initial; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; widows: 2; word-spacing: 0px;"><span style="font-family: arial;"><br /></span></div><div style="-webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; color: black; font-size: 16px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; letter-spacing: normal; orphans: 2; text-align: left; text-decoration-color: initial; text-decoration-style: initial; text-decoration-thickness: initial; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; widows: 2; word-spacing: 0px;"><span style="font-family: arial;"><br /></span></div></div>max monterohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16217644456257635987noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3838050795464426329.post-60743080813060037772021-07-02T16:54:00.002+10:002021-07-02T16:54:45.422+10:00Philippine Air Force selects its future advance trainer aircraft to replace SIAI Marchetti S.211 jet trainers<p><span style="font-family: arial;"> <br />Back in October 2014, MaxDefense Philippines wrote a blog entry asking if it was already time for the Philippine Air Force (PAF) to replace its dear SIAI Marchetti AS.211 Warrior advanced jet trainers.<br /><br />"<a href="http://maxdefense.blogspot.com/2014/10/is-it-time-to-replace-philippine-air.html"><b><i><span style="color: #2b00fe;">Is it Time to Replace the Philippine Air Force's S-211 Aircraft?</span></i></b></a>" - first posted on 07 October 2014.<br /><br />That time, the AS.211 Warrior was not just the most capable trainer in the PAF, but was also the most capable combat aircraft in the entire PAF fleet, due to the absence of proper multi-role fighters or light combat aircraft, or even a modern close air support aircraft. The PAF's current fleet of FA-50PH Fighting Eagle supersonic light combat aircraft and the A-29B Super Tucano light attack aircraft were not yet available to the PAF in 2014.<br /><br />Normally when we write something, we are actually providing clues on what's already being prepared. In 2014, we already received information that the PAF may include the need for new intermediate-advanced trainer aircraft to replace the AS.211 Warrior by the mid 2020s, with the new aircraft to be acquired either as part of the 2nd List of Horizon 1 phase, or with the Horizon 2 phase.<br /><br />Even before 2014, studies were already started by the PAF on what its future training curriculum and phases would be, and what kind of training equipment are needed, including aircraft, flight simulators, and others. <br /><br />And with the AS.211 Warrior fleet reaching 30 years of service by the early 2020s, it was found that it would probably best to start replacing the AS.211 Warrior trainer jets with a newer, more modern, more efficient, more dependable, more forgiving, and more advanced trainer aircraft.<br /><br />Now, that time has come, as the Philippine Air Force starts the acquisition of a new trainer aircraft, and selecting its choice for procurement.<br /></span></p><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhc2_O3Oaf45O4987eWfts5NXiaLDJUo_f1HCzF2tntVs7LohLvAdkugO8zq0RMep3S3epHpYO2H754YkysjSRrslDvZIaKUHZO9vumZoPTkujrrtIovpm98W0Jgd_kd7aLr2A22VynD4U/s1280/1280px-Demonstration_Flight_of_ROKAF_New_Light_Trainer_KT-1_%2527Woongbi%2527%2528cropped%2529.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><span style="font-family: arial;"><img border="0" data-original-height="984" data-original-width="1280" height="492" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhc2_O3Oaf45O4987eWfts5NXiaLDJUo_f1HCzF2tntVs7LohLvAdkugO8zq0RMep3S3epHpYO2H754YkysjSRrslDvZIaKUHZO9vumZoPTkujrrtIovpm98W0Jgd_kd7aLr2A22VynD4U/w640-h492/1280px-Demonstration_Flight_of_ROKAF_New_Light_Trainer_KT-1_%2527Woongbi%2527%2528cropped%2529.jpg" width="640" /></span></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: x-small;">A KT-1 Woongbi operated by the Republic of Korea Air Force. Photo credits to Wikipedia.</span></td></tr></tbody></table><div><span style="font-family: arial;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-family: arial;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-family: arial;"><b><u><span style="color: #ffa400;">The Trainer Aircraft Acquisition Project of the PAF:<br /></span></u></b><br />The Philippine Air Force is in the market for new trainer aircraft which would be used for intermediate-advance pilot training.<br /><br />Th new aircraft would be replacing the SIAI Marchetti AS.211 jet trainer, which has been in use with the PAF since the early 1990s. The type is already entering 30 years of service with the PAF in the next couple of years, although it is believed that the PAF would keep the AS.211 flying together with the new trainer for jet proficiency training and for low-intensity combat and surveillance roles.<br /><br /></span></div><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjodbTHvUDE2aKoJ89SFgAIA0bMD2fHjnyZ3MaDU-RpDIfqy5O5biRziThInb4PO85pmn4v9Okwoono0u_AwYvjR6LIYYqRTSs3ckkR07Sjwin49G4ggUbx8tvGLIS9zq0fxWHhI9w8phk/s696/S211-JET.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><span style="font-family: arial;"><img border="0" data-original-height="465" data-original-width="696" height="428" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjodbTHvUDE2aKoJ89SFgAIA0bMD2fHjnyZ3MaDU-RpDIfqy5O5biRziThInb4PO85pmn4v9Okwoono0u_AwYvjR6LIYYqRTSs3ckkR07Sjwin49G4ggUbx8tvGLIS9zq0fxWHhI9w8phk/w640-h428/S211-JET.jpg" width="640" /></span></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial;">One of the PAF's AS.211 Warrior jet trainer aircraft.</span></td></tr></tbody></table><div><span style="font-family: arial;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-family: arial;">The aircraft would be slotted between the SF-260F basic trainer, and the FA-50PH Fighting Eagle light combat aircraft which also doubles as lead-in fighter trainer (LIFT) for future fighter pilots.</span></div><div><span style="font-family: arial;"><br />12 units are planned for procurement with an Approved Budget for Contract (ABC) worth Php4.2 billion. It is planned to be procured through Multi-Year Contractual Authority (MYCA), and could be a Government-to-Government (G2G) transaction with the winning manufacturer's country of origin.<br /><br />MaxDefense PH is still confirming if these new aircraft would be assigned with the 5th Fighter Wing's 105th Fighter Training Squadron at Basa Air Base in Pampanga, or with the Air Education and Training Command in Fernando Air Base in Batangas. Since it is expected to replace the AS.211, it is possible that it would be with the 5th Fighter Wing.<br /><br /></span></div><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhWsQADqHDHzwH9-HwKweF72BwzsoEZeSnuzX-6ZDjJ70A-k09y3wGFiATK5a8Gf3Nf1ZHY2EftOKSopiVAHyK1hO3vNuQ_CSjpWu2K4X3g4Ql0n8LJZVig3tNISKBoIjYUV9bsbEXsc88/s1023/S-211+Peter+Ho.png" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><span style="font-family: arial;"><img border="0" data-original-height="686" data-original-width="1023" height="430" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhWsQADqHDHzwH9-HwKweF72BwzsoEZeSnuzX-6ZDjJ70A-k09y3wGFiATK5a8Gf3Nf1ZHY2EftOKSopiVAHyK1hO3vNuQ_CSjpWu2K4X3g4Ql0n8LJZVig3tNISKBoIjYUV9bsbEXsc88/w640-h430/S-211+Peter+Ho.png" width="640" /></span></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: x-small;">The AS.211 is employed as a light attack aircraft and patrol aircraft, and is capable of using assorted munitions including AIM-9 Sidewinder air-to-air missile and Paveway II laser guided bombs (both not shown), free fall bombs, and rocket pods. Photo credits to Peter Ho.</span></td></tr></tbody></table><span style="font-family: arial;"><br /></span><div><b><u><span style="color: #ffa400; font-family: arial;">Aircraft Models for Consideration:</span></u></b></div><div><span style="font-family: arial;"><br />According to MaxDefense Philippines air force and defense industry sources, the PAF Technical Working Group (TWG) for the Trainer Acquisition Project were looking at several options, which include the following aircraft models:<br /><br />1. Embraer A-29B Super Tucano - the PAF already operates the A-29B in the light attack and close air support role with the PAF's 15th Strike Wing, and is a practical choice for commonality. But it was said to be too capable for the trainer role, and all the added capability also increases the overall price of the aircraft.<br /><br /></span></div><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg2GqGwYtl_SiZ_xSVOnnvNKPaT7qQcykRh2_OPsKXH5Tjj5e4fsP7hWJ3bYnYVhJKkAnwUydgRUEnQutGhJI5bh5n8HFiaSY-T8FCJeEoT2YXmLSPFQjmTONNddQFRlvKsnY2urOlAqeo/s1485/received_703960776865746.jpeg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><span style="font-family: arial;"><img border="0" data-original-height="782" data-original-width="1485" height="338" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg2GqGwYtl_SiZ_xSVOnnvNKPaT7qQcykRh2_OPsKXH5Tjj5e4fsP7hWJ3bYnYVhJKkAnwUydgRUEnQutGhJI5bh5n8HFiaSY-T8FCJeEoT2YXmLSPFQjmTONNddQFRlvKsnY2urOlAqeo/w640-h338/received_703960776865746.jpeg" width="640" /></span></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: x-small;">A-29B Super Tucano of the Philippine Air Force. Photo credits to AFP Public Information Office.</span></td></tr></tbody></table><div><span style="font-family: arial;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-family: arial;">2. Beechcraft Textron T-6C Texan II - currently one of the most widely used basic-advance trainer aircraft in the world, with the US military itself using it for their training requirements. The AT-6 Wolverine lost to the A-29B Super Tucano for the PAF's Close Air Support Aircraft program, although it is still pushing the T-6C for trainer requirements due to issues on the A-29B as trainer aircraft as mentioned above. Thailand ordered the trainer and light attack variants of the T-6.<br /><br /></span></div><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjKSSE-lbS-k6wcVuIqrtLGhQ2nhyoMzZYKigYvN5j3pZS123zGlySqbsU5rsXVzGzcnAmxqGYkHu2RN1KSab87KrP1gWH8uJdhFSuRp4eU-IlLKU6-8F4T59O9SJ-mOXJ1248qrDzX_cc/s1024/Pete+n+Kat+Fletcher.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><span style="font-family: arial;"><img border="0" data-original-height="768" data-original-width="1024" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjKSSE-lbS-k6wcVuIqrtLGhQ2nhyoMzZYKigYvN5j3pZS123zGlySqbsU5rsXVzGzcnAmxqGYkHu2RN1KSab87KrP1gWH8uJdhFSuRp4eU-IlLKU6-8F4T59O9SJ-mOXJ1248qrDzX_cc/w640-h480/Pete+n+Kat+Fletcher.jpg" width="640" /></span></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: x-small;">The AT-6 Wolverine light attack and T-6C Texan II trainer aircraft. Photo credits to original source.</span></td></tr></tbody></table><span style="font-family: arial;"><br /></span><div><span style="font-family: arial;">2, KAI KT-1 Woongbi - South Korea has been very active in marketing their defense products to the Philippines, and the KT-1 has been one of the first products they started marketing as early as the early 2000s. And with the sale of the FA-50PH Fighting Eagle years ago, KAI has established a foothold in the Philippine Air Force and DND. Within the ASEAN region, Indonesia is currently using the KT-1B.<br /><br /></span></div><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgjE5gIH3HVwjgp-PkWBFjHbn5X1h1v7raVSyS2yLvN1p7opkETA3wdmIupLrehdAidcozENyDlP6rHQ-0DobnqPjZ6qDhyphenhyphenOZIjaxQH5xfjcMtI1sOt3tUrtGOF2Y_PxC6WwHL84l1H_q8/s1024/c1e394d3ba90de5546f623a5828e6172.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><span style="font-family: arial;"><img border="0" data-original-height="682" data-original-width="1024" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgjE5gIH3HVwjgp-PkWBFjHbn5X1h1v7raVSyS2yLvN1p7opkETA3wdmIupLrehdAidcozENyDlP6rHQ-0DobnqPjZ6qDhyphenhyphenOZIjaxQH5xfjcMtI1sOt3tUrtGOF2Y_PxC6WwHL84l1H_q8/w640-h426/c1e394d3ba90de5546f623a5828e6172.jpg" width="640" /></span></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial;">The KT-1T, operated by the Turkish Air Force. Photo credits to original source.</span></td></tr></tbody></table><span style="font-family: arial;"><br /></span><div><span style="font-family: arial;">4. Aero Vodochody L-39NG - one of the jet trainer aircraft offered to the PAF, the L-39NG is the latest version of the successful L-39 Albatross family of advanced jet trainer aircraft. The L-39NG makes use of the latest avionics systems and uses the American-made Williams International FJ44 turbofan engine. Vietnam ordered 12 units, which will start delivery by 2023.</span></div><div><span style="font-family: arial;"><br /></span></div><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhrf7FqyUrA8fzssGC4KkK1UCuh2Se64dffHDUFavyv1nruSv4Vxw4xihJ1ZierVMwOvZ9OrzkkYmwhlAgUyeLheT_deXXlTaoXtwkIH1yiN9cMfGpKv105QolSbSpfg3Q4phbXUoOP9rg/s1920/L-39NG+%25281%2529.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><span style="font-family: arial;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1080" data-original-width="1920" height="360" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhrf7FqyUrA8fzssGC4KkK1UCuh2Se64dffHDUFavyv1nruSv4Vxw4xihJ1ZierVMwOvZ9OrzkkYmwhlAgUyeLheT_deXXlTaoXtwkIH1yiN9cMfGpKv105QolSbSpfg3Q4phbXUoOP9rg/w640-h360/L-39NG+%25281%2529.jpg" width="640" /></span></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: x-small;">The L-39NG jet trainer aircraft. Photo credits to Armada International.</span></td></tr></tbody></table><span style="font-family: arial;"><br /></span><div><span style="font-family: arial;">5. Pilatus PC-21 - this is the latest trainer aircraft from Switzerland's Pilatus Aircraft, known for the successful PC-7 and PC-9 advanced trainers. The PC-21 is said to be the most advanced in the selections despite using a turboprop engine. But it is also one of the more expensive options, which could be am issue for the a stingy market like the Philippines. Currently, Singapore uses the PC-21 for advanced flight training.</span></div><div><span style="font-family: arial;"><br /></span></div><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhpRjuDw14S8cAWdQrci60ooYcXW_h2vbpFPn5ScPH5jwwt3_51EM65xUJhiZLoh9jQWR2ZXC93x7SnjPospbWIINklf2mLXoPWP7QlCUibWUWF62CxglRuPPDf2oluVkYrEpYitzn9b0Q/s640/PC21_SAF_640.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><span style="font-family: arial;"><img border="0" data-original-height="361" data-original-width="640" height="360" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhpRjuDw14S8cAWdQrci60ooYcXW_h2vbpFPn5ScPH5jwwt3_51EM65xUJhiZLoh9jQWR2ZXC93x7SnjPospbWIINklf2mLXoPWP7QlCUibWUWF62CxglRuPPDf2oluVkYrEpYitzn9b0Q/w640-h360/PC21_SAF_640.jpg" width="640" /></span></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial;">Two PC-21 trainer aircraft of the Swiss Air Force. Photo credits to Swiss Air Force.</span></td></tr></tbody></table><span style="font-family: arial;"><br /></span><div><span style="font-family: arial;">6. Leonardo Aermacchi M-345 High Efficiency Trainer (HET) - part of Leonardo's family of trainer aircraft, the M-345HET is a latest variant of the original SIAI Marchetti S.211 jet trainer already in service with the PAF. It uses a similar but improved airframe but with everything else updated to the latest technology include glass cockpit, more powerful but efficient turbofan engines, among others. No regional air force uses the type although the Italian Air Force is a major user.<br /><br /></span></div><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEioFiWHa66EymajCPlQ1MwRbmQKEaGIsFVs78Xx4POXNwNBJ8_ZwaMXGID3HdVWTsHSyGyhdr8Fw2xdGM6HRIY1GtvsbB2KfhQAHmf-Vj8xYhwEAMDKsQ9eKXS48fgi1D-4GFuE0-gm8no/s960/205732578_128304616098812_8133434135733140305_n.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><span style="font-family: arial;"><img border="0" data-original-height="681" data-original-width="960" height="454" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEioFiWHa66EymajCPlQ1MwRbmQKEaGIsFVs78Xx4POXNwNBJ8_ZwaMXGID3HdVWTsHSyGyhdr8Fw2xdGM6HRIY1GtvsbB2KfhQAHmf-Vj8xYhwEAMDKsQ9eKXS48fgi1D-4GFuE0-gm8no/w640-h454/205732578_128304616098812_8133434135733140305_n.jpg" width="640" /></span></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: x-small;">The Aermacchi M-345 HET from Leonardo. Photo credits to Leonardo.</span></td></tr></tbody></table><span style="font-family: arial;"><br /></span><div><span style="font-family: arial;"> <br /><b><u><span style="color: #ffa400;">PAF Selects its Next Trainer Aircraft:<br /></span></u></b><br />In 2020, MaxDefense Philippines started liaising with PAF sources on what they are looking for as their next trainer aircraft. <br /><br />Apparently, groups within the service are divided if they would prefer a jet-powered aircraft, or will they return to turboprop-powered aircraft models, considering the AS.211 Warrior is already powered by turbofan jet propulsion. <br /><br />So far, only the Aero Vodochody L-39NG and the Leonardo Aermacchi M-345HET were the jet-powered offers, so if the PAF selects a jet-powered trainer, we can definitely find it easier to see what they could have chosen.<br /><br />But by late 2020, we received confirmation that the PAF TWG prefers a turboprop-powered trainer aircraft, taking out both the L-39NG and M-345HET from the shortlist.<br /><br />By 2021, we started receiving word from several sources that the PAF TWG has identified its top choice for the project, and has began negotiations with the top selection. And it was identified as KAI's KT-1 Woongbi, with another aircraft model believed to be Beechcraft Textron's T-6C Texan II coming in second.<br /><br />This has become more apparent when we received confirmation last June 2021 that the TWG's recommendation was already approved and signed by PAF Commanding General Lt. Gen. Allen Paredes, and has already been submitted to the DND, with Defense Sec. Delfin Lorenzana approving the recommendation for submission to Malacanang and the Department of Budget and Management.<br /><br />As usual, this would be dependent on DBM if funds are available, and with Malacanang for final approval.<br /><br /></span></div><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjZH1-VuoyFAsRaS-9_8jRxA0uE-sTa123hIsfIBJOQ1Tcxby7auCINxSqPIAq_JnDwjQEI8J9bVUdUKHaMGOJkjos8q2bM3s9f3JSsE0NvjveaZ8_BbVG8F9R8H0jSbmCWRTwA11rVcGs/s1717/13.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><span style="font-family: arial;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1134" data-original-width="1717" height="422" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjZH1-VuoyFAsRaS-9_8jRxA0uE-sTa123hIsfIBJOQ1Tcxby7auCINxSqPIAq_JnDwjQEI8J9bVUdUKHaMGOJkjos8q2bM3s9f3JSsE0NvjveaZ8_BbVG8F9R8H0jSbmCWRTwA11rVcGs/w640-h422/13.jpg" width="640" /></span></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: x-small;">The KAI KT-1 Woongbi as seen in KAI's official brochure, which was also posted as part of the PAF Symposium 2021 Virtual Showroom. Photo credits to KAI.</span></td></tr></tbody></table><span style="font-family: arial;"><br /></span><div><b><span style="color: #ffa400; font-family: arial;"><u>The KT-1 Woongbi trainer aircraft:</u></span></b></div><div><span style="font-family: arial;"><br />The KT-1 Woongbi is a single-engine basic-intermediate trainer aircraft designed jointly the South Korean Agency of Defense Development (ADD) and Korea Aerospace Industries (KAI). It is currently built by KAI, and was the first indigenous aircraft developed to meet the requirements of the Republic of Korea Air Force (ROKAF).<br /><br />The aircraft was said to be loosely based to the Pilatus PC-9 trainer aircraft.<br /><br />Newer versions of the aircraft can be equipped with glass cockpit configuration, and avionics can be changed and improved depending on requirements, including use of Night Vision Goggles (NVG), heads-up display, multi-function display, hands-on throttle and stick configuration, among others.<br /><br />It also has an armed version called the KA-1, which can be used for weapon training or light attack requirements. It can be armed with gun and rocket pods, bombs, and missiles, with an option to install Forward Looking Infra-red (FLIR) turrets and laser range finder.<br /><br />KAI has marketed the KT-1 as part of an integrated training package when paired with the KAI T-50 Golden Eagle advanced/lead-in fighter trainer jet.<br /><br />The KT-1 was developed from the KTX Program for the ROKAF in 1988, with prototypes built by 1991. It made its maiden flight on November 1991, and was named "Woongbi" in 1995.<br /><br /></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjOcuhBSE-aPBA1XwRIqcUcbMh9st1or7tBxMYitwGgOAdlYWaEyMhJahPodxWnBudralGTwr-YpjCi4gb_e4Z7wYdJ1kSPWRLwtytXH1Bih689XOuTwViIcn2Bdcwq8pZ3c-F1-BEwIhU/s1290/41723bb1c34c1975f81edf32d3fd39ad.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: arial;"><img border="0" data-original-height="810" data-original-width="1290" height="402" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjOcuhBSE-aPBA1XwRIqcUcbMh9st1or7tBxMYitwGgOAdlYWaEyMhJahPodxWnBudralGTwr-YpjCi4gb_e4Z7wYdJ1kSPWRLwtytXH1Bih689XOuTwViIcn2Bdcwq8pZ3c-F1-BEwIhU/w640-h402/41723bb1c34c1975f81edf32d3fd39ad.jpg" width="640" /></span></a></div><div><span style="font-family: arial;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-family: arial;">The KT-1 started serial production in 2000, with the ROKAF being its first customer with orders made in 1999 for 85 units. The ROKAF received their first aircraft in 2000, with deliveries completed in 2002.<br /><br />A follow-on order was made by the ROKAF in 2003 for 20 KA-1 armed trainers, which can be armed with gun and rocket pods for use as weapons trainer aircraft.<br /><br />The Indonesian Air Force (TNI-AU) became the first export customer of the KT-1 Woongbi, with an initial order for 12 KT-1B aircraft in April 2003 to be paid by barter with 8 Indonesian-made CN-235 transport aircraft. The TNI-AU eventually ordered 17 KT-1B which was used by the service for basic training and for aerobatic display with the <a href="https://aerobaticteams.net/en/teams/i81/Jupiter-Aerobatic-Team.html"><span style="color: #2b00fe;"><b>Jupiter Aerobatic Team</b></span></a>.</span></div><span style="font-family: arial;"><br /></span><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiuo-RAWjGzRwolXMBm1JHl9mFW2-Gjdpt7fFs-RqzYveuq799mGmF9EXAhnxAbv26IuXmmqlBp4IiKBRwBZkUpr8ytHASGS2EAZS-AsOp4G1I1mBPGESK4P5y1usnbWFUowyJ_FHy9ISk/s800/f2e3c7e4c19b327be5124bb475943b69.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><span style="font-family: arial;"><img border="0" data-original-height="481" data-original-width="800" height="384" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiuo-RAWjGzRwolXMBm1JHl9mFW2-Gjdpt7fFs-RqzYveuq799mGmF9EXAhnxAbv26IuXmmqlBp4IiKBRwBZkUpr8ytHASGS2EAZS-AsOp4G1I1mBPGESK4P5y1usnbWFUowyJ_FHy9ISk/w640-h384/f2e3c7e4c19b327be5124bb475943b69.jpg" width="640" /></span></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: x-small;">Indonesian Air Force KT-1B Woongbi aircraft with the Jupiter Aerobatic Team. Credits to original source of photo.</span></td></tr></tbody></table><span style="font-family: arial;"><br /></span><div><span style="font-family: arial;">In 2007, KAI and Turkish Aerospace Industries (TAI) signed a US$553 million deal to supply 55 KT-1T trainers for the Turkish Air Force. The first 5 aircraft would be built at KAI's plant in South Korea, while the remaining 50 aircraft would be locally produced by TAI in their plant near Ankara. Deliveries started in 2010 and completed in 2014.<br /><br /></span></div><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg_bQKNrNWiDUgrbt_jLsgfjglIEEAdMxQMiHDJ6DbhjFM6fYexpifKuKPc5gu-OXkXMfmM1O30QsVG9ED0iBtPgbRhMWSMKY5gSAwqIDiHubbqZv_HnHkszHtV2CHUjpq9o6auj3IwT1M/s1057/12244261_1094110477295431_3424114726547555435_o.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><span style="font-family: arial;"><img border="0" data-original-height="752" data-original-width="1057" height="456" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg_bQKNrNWiDUgrbt_jLsgfjglIEEAdMxQMiHDJ6DbhjFM6fYexpifKuKPc5gu-OXkXMfmM1O30QsVG9ED0iBtPgbRhMWSMKY5gSAwqIDiHubbqZv_HnHkszHtV2CHUjpq9o6auj3IwT1M/w640-h456/12244261_1094110477295431_3424114726547555435_o.jpg" width="640" /></span></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: x-small;">KT-1 Woongbi of the Turkish Air Force. Photo credits to Savunma ve Havacilik.</span></td></tr></tbody></table><span style="font-family: arial;"><br /></span><div><span style="font-family: arial;">In 2012, the Peruvian Air Force ordered 10 KT-1P trainers and 10 KA-1P light attack aircraft as part of a US$208 million. KAI built the first 4 aircraft which were delivered in 2014, while SEMAN locally assembled the rest of the order. SEMAN delivered the first locally assembled KT-1 and KA-1 aircraft to the Peruvian Air Force on April 2015.</span></div><div><span style="font-family: arial;"><br /></span></div><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgN4BbsIUugDFENVbWGvrVKwz4ev4wL5N2WNzZXb8ZEIP_YHOhewlo59JuoBsve9TTRyrfdgNjjIF9igOWzFddeVHH9p8XLP9W2TYIgIgpupFAP_4DWbIUZ2XUO5HjQzxMvy1IsFgHyWpE/s1489/KAI_KT-1_Woongbi_Peru.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><span style="font-family: arial;"><img border="0" data-original-height="912" data-original-width="1489" height="392" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgN4BbsIUugDFENVbWGvrVKwz4ev4wL5N2WNzZXb8ZEIP_YHOhewlo59JuoBsve9TTRyrfdgNjjIF9igOWzFddeVHH9p8XLP9W2TYIgIgpupFAP_4DWbIUZ2XUO5HjQzxMvy1IsFgHyWpE/w640-h392/KAI_KT-1_Woongbi_Peru.jpg" width="640" /></span></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: x-small;">A KA-1 Woongbi armed trainer of the Peruvian Air Force. Photo credits to Wikipedia.</span></td></tr></tbody></table><span style="font-family: arial;"><br /></span><div><span style="font-family: arial;">Senegal ordered 4 KT-1S in 2016, with all aircraft delivered to the Senegalese Air Force by 2020. They are KAI's first export customer in Africa, where the South Korean government is hopeful to gain success in exporting their defense products</span></div><div><span style="font-family: arial;"><br /></span></div><div><b><u><span style="color: red; font-family: arial;">What's Next:</span></u></b></div><div><span style="font-family: arial;"><br />With the selection already made, it is now up to the DND and PAF to complete negotiations with KAI on final pricing, package inclusions, delivery schedule and payment terms.<br /><br />This would become the basis for the Terms of Reference (TOR) for the project, before a contract can be signed between the DND and KAI.<br /><br />MaxDefense Philippines believes that a contract could be signed before the end of the year, but that will depend on how fast (or slow) the DND is in processing the procurement of this project.<br /><br />If a contract is signed and Notice to Proceed (NTP) is released in favor of KAI within the year, the first batch of aircraft could be delivered to the PAF as early as 2023.<br /><br />Take note that all these estimates are based on the DND proceeding with KAI, and not changing their decisions during the next few months. Should an agreement between the DND and KAI fails to take off, moving to the next possible model and restarting all procurement processes will definitely delay the project by at least a year.<br /><br />Anyway, MaxDefense Philippines hopes that everything goes well with this project.</span></div><div><span style="font-family: arial;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-family: arial;"><b><u><span face=""arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif" style="color: red;">Summary:</span></u></b><br /><span face=""arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif"><span style="color: red;"><b><u><br /></u></b></span></span><span face=""arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif"><b><u>Trainer Aircraft Acquisition Project</u></b></span><br /><span face=""arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif"><b><u><br /></u></b></span><span face=""arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif"><i>Note: Edited as of 02 July 2021.</i></span><br /><span face=""arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif"><b><u><br /></u></b></span><b>* End User:</b><span face=""arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif"> Philippine Air Force (5th Fighter Wing or Air Education Training Command)</span><br /><span face=""arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif"><br />* <b>Quantity:</b> 12 aircraft minimum</span><br /><span face=""arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif"><b><br />* Modernization Phase:</b> Horizon 2 Phase of RAFPMP</span><br /><span face=""arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif"><b><br />* Project ABC:</b> Php4,200,000,000.00 (approx. US$86 million)</span><span face=""arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif"><br /><br />* </span><b>Acquisition Mode</b><span face=""arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif">: Negotiated Procurement (Government-to-Government)</span><br /><span face=""arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif"><b><br />* SARO Release:</b> TBA</span><br /><span face=""arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif"><b><br />* Winning Proponent:</b> TBA, expected to be Korea Aerospace Industries<br /><br />* <b>Product for Delivery: </b>TBA, expected to be KAI KT-1 or KA-1 Woongbi</span><span face=""arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif"><b><br /><br />* Contract Price:</b> TBA</span><br /><span face=""arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif"></span><br /><span face=""arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif">* <b>Status:</b> PAF TWG selected KAI's KT-1/KA-1 Woongbi, recommendation approved by CGPAF and submitted to DND. MaxDefense PH received confirmation that SND already approved procurement of Trainer Aircraft based on KAI's offer.</span><span face=""arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif"><br /></span><br /></span><div><p><span style="font-family: arial;"><span>===============<br /><span>===============</span><br /><span>First release: 02 July 2021<br /></span></span><span>Copyright MaxDefense Philippines<br /></span></span></p><div><span style="clear: left; display: inline; font-family: arial; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiYWXCNgEKjy9PvhyXm0jmw-UnztULhhX9_GTnNx_JypEfRUOe07Cmiy5RovWdombNpNjDgXqOLGsfr3ebf42GCzvvv9mgDCJupEGN2BfPWB07rMXH1PWyeHsOmXJDQ-oAMnohCrulGckI/s1600/20160919_073729.jpg" style="clear: left; display: inline; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="227" data-original-width="961" height="75" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiYWXCNgEKjy9PvhyXm0jmw-UnztULhhX9_GTnNx_JypEfRUOe07Cmiy5RovWdombNpNjDgXqOLGsfr3ebf42GCzvvv9mgDCJupEGN2BfPWB07rMXH1PWyeHsOmXJDQ-oAMnohCrulGckI/s320/20160919_073729.jpg" width="320" /></a></span></div></div><div><span style="font-family: arial;"><br /></span></div><span style="font-family: arial;"><br /></span></div>max monterohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16217644456257635987noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3838050795464426329.post-15655695914388162402021-06-06T17:37:00.004+10:002021-06-06T17:37:47.055+10:00Philippine Air Force makes final push for Multi-Role Fighters with Saab JAS-39C/D Gripen<p><span style="font-family: arial;"><br />The Philippine Air Force (PAF) has started to make its final chance to push for the acquisition of new Multi-Role Fighter (MRF) aircraft, as securing funding for modernization projects has reached the final few months.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial;">And based on information MaxDefense PH has gathered from sources from the Philippine Air Force and from the defense industry, the Technical Working Group (TWG0 for the Multi-Role Fighter Acquisition Project has revised its recommendation and go with the Saab JAS-39C/D Gripen fighter aircraft from Sweden.<br /><br />This was approved by Philippine Air Force leadership led by PAF Commanding General Lt. Gen. Allen Paredes, as well as the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) led by AFP Chief of Staff Gen. Cirilito Sobejana.<br /><br />If information provided to MaxDefense PH are correct, this has been already passed to the Department of National Defense (DND), which now has the ball in securing final approval from Malacanang to secure funding requirements.<br /></span></p><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjsTse-OGEcc-GH5dXTd_x1mzxYP_8sheJcmzyXWNtSw7Uc5OatFDt71oztLV0HCjvz8tYKpXFMXNRNvCgWqj5yvTLefhefnPU1Kpab4TP4HKyLM_kGZukPAAOosTiUNhHSMqc2N1Izh9A/s800/jas--39-gripen-archiv-vel-vzs.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><span style="font-family: arial;"><img border="0" data-original-height="534" data-original-width="800" height="428" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjsTse-OGEcc-GH5dXTd_x1mzxYP_8sheJcmzyXWNtSw7Uc5OatFDt71oztLV0HCjvz8tYKpXFMXNRNvCgWqj5yvTLefhefnPU1Kpab4TP4HKyLM_kGZukPAAOosTiUNhHSMqc2N1Izh9A/w640-h428/jas--39-gripen-archiv-vel-vzs.jpg" width="640" /></span></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: x-small;">The Saab JAS-39C/D Gripen. Photo credits to CZDefence.</span></td></tr></tbody></table><span style="font-family: arial;"><br /><b><u><span style="color: red;">From F-16 Viper to JAS-39 Gripen:<br /></span></u></b><br /><b><u><span style="color: #ffa400;">2019 - 2020: Selecting the F-16 Block 70 Viper:<br /></span></u></b><br />MaxDefense PH reported previously that the Philippine Air Force Technical Working Group has selected the Lockheed Martin F-16C/D Block 70 Viper in 2019, and was already submitted to the Department of National Defense for approval by the National Government.<br /></span><p><span style="font-family: arial;">The PAF was said to stick to the original plan, as negotiations continued with the US Government and Lockheed Martin with the F-16 Viper deal. In the process, the offer made by Lockheed Martin was for 12 new F-16C/D Block 70 Viper fighters, as well as 2 to 4 used F-16D Block 30 or 40 Fighting Falcon fighters hot-transferred from the US Air National Guard.<br /></span></p><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiG6wxFeWitGXYn1jas6dNwvKmJs5V_mU9qBZeoU96p_2uLfmQIecsLJyE8mzgiGzd7INAxeG551wbVYX7PVjGYk9_j7I2391kHQ-kXPjFuZCsgw60a116ny_IG2Ar7z8io-8o3qIgcO4U/s1600/lockheed_martin_f_16_block_70.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><span style="font-family: arial;"><img border="0" data-original-height="786" data-original-width="1600" height="314" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiG6wxFeWitGXYn1jas6dNwvKmJs5V_mU9qBZeoU96p_2uLfmQIecsLJyE8mzgiGzd7INAxeG551wbVYX7PVjGYk9_j7I2391kHQ-kXPjFuZCsgw60a116ny_IG2Ar7z8io-8o3qIgcO4U/s640/lockheed_martin_f_16_block_70.jpg" width="640" /></span></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption"><span style="font-family: arial;"><span style="font-size: x-small;">A CGI of the F-16C Block 70 Viper. Credits to original source of photo.<br /></span><br /></span></td></tr></tbody></table><p><span style="font-family: arial;">If the contract was signed and Notice to Proceed (NTP) were released by early 2020, deliveries were said to be made starting 2024 for the F-16 Block 70 Vipers, although hot-transfer of used F-16 Block 30 or 40 Fighting Falcons will be made within 1 to 2 years from release of NTP, which is somewhere around 2021 or 2022.<br /><br />Training would be conducted in the mainland United States with US Air Force or US Air National Guard units, while succeeding training would also be conducted in the Philippines as part of regular deployment of US military personnel under the PH-US Visiting Forces Agreement.<br /><br />The US will also provide an option to the Philippine Air Force for grants of additional F-16C/D Block 30 or 40 Fighting Falcons, although upgrades to Block 70 Viper standards would be paid for by the Philippine government.<br /><br />Based on information we received back in 2019, the offer made by the US government was to be transacted through US Foreign Military Sales (US FMS) program, and would cost higher than the Php61.2 billion budget proposed by the PAF. Figures MaxDefense PH received back in 2019 was close to US$1.4 billion (Php70 billion), which is almost Php9 billion off the PAF's budget. This excludes munitions.<br /><span style="-webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; color: black; font-size: medium; font-style: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-weight: 400; letter-spacing: normal; orphans: 2; text-align: left; text-decoration-color: initial; text-decoration-style: initial; text-decoration-thickness: initial; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; widows: 2; word-spacing: 0px;"></span></span></p><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="-webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; letter-spacing: normal; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; orphans: 2; text-align: center; text-decoration-color: initial; text-decoration-style: initial; text-decoration-thickness: initial; text-transform: none; widows: 2; word-spacing: 0px;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhGc3xu-5xZdSAIwxfGS1ufbJnatbmeZWVA_wI3pYiCUGtIOAqfwsn157MIYhattLxeToGmMaG9z_EXQtNzHUAJYfGHUQ7kZOOyrfc5cLu9CpbQ0IhuhJvgRIx0hVu0xIzY5WjDdiTNZFk/s1600/44719503_834670383370287_3099594368999227392_n.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><span style="font-family: arial;"><img border="0" data-original-height="408" data-original-width="612" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhGc3xu-5xZdSAIwxfGS1ufbJnatbmeZWVA_wI3pYiCUGtIOAqfwsn157MIYhattLxeToGmMaG9z_EXQtNzHUAJYfGHUQ7kZOOyrfc5cLu9CpbQ0IhuhJvgRIx0hVu0xIzY5WjDdiTNZFk/s640/44719503_834670383370287_3099594368999227392_n.jpg" style="cursor: move;" width="640" /></span></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: x-small;">The Lockheed Martin F-16 Viper (above) was among those showcased re-opening of Basa Air Base and the Balik Basa 2018 reunion. Photos shared by a MaxDefense community member who wish to remain anonymous.</span></td></tr></tbody></table><p><span style="font-family: arial;">While the PAF selected the US offer for F-16 Vipers, funding has become a problem. The DND was asked to find ways to add more funding to the MRF Acquisition Project on top of the Php61.2 billion approval in-principle back in 2018. <br /><br />But also by 2nd quarter of, 2020 COVID-19 global pandemic has affected the Philippine government spending and economic output, and the government was pressed to divert funds to pandemic-related expenses. This has not just affected the Multi-Role Fighter Acquisition Project, but several other projects of the Revised AFP Modernization Program that were even in more advanced stages than the Multi-Role Fighter project.<br /><br />This also made it impossible for the national government to allocate more funding to the MRF Acquisition Project based on the F-16 proposal, and it has become apparent that the project will stall.<span><br /></span></span></p><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi_sAzVTcZsIoMDicgd_cR9bt_pO6gKs67tiebXZXGrzis4FtT8srsHAUN77xHMTpIJ6lDI3RNJhUArfXnRaQGEEvDKBsMvZh9lDhH2tZI2nXP_L_jbp7g4m06n7NQTl5-wCl3RX9MSicU/s1600/61797330_969423986561592_3931669009002397696_o.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><span style="font-family: arial;"><img border="0" data-original-height="471" data-original-width="837" height="360" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi_sAzVTcZsIoMDicgd_cR9bt_pO6gKs67tiebXZXGrzis4FtT8srsHAUN77xHMTpIJ6lDI3RNJhUArfXnRaQGEEvDKBsMvZh9lDhH2tZI2nXP_L_jbp7g4m06n7NQTl5-wCl3RX9MSicU/s640/61797330_969423986561592_3931669009002397696_o.jpg" width="640" /></span></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: x-small;">One of the flyers from Lockheed Martin marketing the F-16 Block 70 to the Philippines. Photo shared by one of our contributor who was present during one of LM's marketing sessions with the Philippine defense and military officials.</span></td></tr></tbody></table><p><span style="font-family: arial;"><br />Also, by 3rd quarter of 2020, Lockheed Martin came back with a revised proposal. Since the issuance of contract has been pushed back by a year, their previous pricing and delivery commitments cannot be honored and have to be adjusted. The new proposal from Lockheed Martin for 12 new F-16C/D Block 70 Vipers has went up, and is now closer to US$1.6 billion (Php78 billion) excluding munitions.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial;">Delivery was also pushed back. From 2024 for the 1st batch, it has been moved to 2025 to 2026 if the contract and NTP has been signed and released by early 2021. No changes were made on the hot transfer delivery of used F-16 Fighting Falcons, which still remains at 1 to 2 years from NTP release.<br /><br /><b><u><span style="color: #ffa400;">Dilemma</span></u></b>:<br /><br />With these new developments, it has become apparent that the allocated funding for the MRF Acquisition Project is not enough, and is short by almost Php17 billion following Lockheed Martin's latest offer.<br /><br />The PAF was asked to return to the drawing board if it still wishes to continue with the project, as it has become apparent that getting additional funding would not be possible in the next 2 to 3 years due to poor economic activity of the country, funding issues with the government, and the Visiting Forces Agreement cancellation adding in the list of issues that affect any offer from the US Government.<br /><br />A few options has been looked at by the DND and PAF. This includes:<br />1. Revising its selection and re-open negotiations with Saab and see if their previous offer with the Saab JAS-39C/D Gripen could hold ground or could even be made better, <br /><br />2. Looking at diverting funds from the MRF Acquisition Project and instead look at the possibility of acquiring additional FA-50PH Fighting Eagle light combat aircraft from Korea Aerospace Industries (KAI) which costs less than half of the MRF Project. This is considering the acquisition of more FA-50 light combat aircraft is actually planned under the Revised AFP Modernization Program's original Horizon 2 proposal before funding was reduced to Php300 billion and PAF needed to revise its program.<br /></span></p><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhjHMtXUI4ZhjNP4pZxG5WBt_QjlZwa_4M-ifgMr1dl95c2fpAkYTN5P8ARNzmmr_dsnBOPXRfZ0hDX7bDCIlsjBc5k8IInYEK8edsKA3H48FoxjnndFbX0glkh0Wl8IXHdpsJeX5wny3o/s1369/Orig+H1-H3+program+PAF.JPG" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><span style="font-family: arial;"><img border="0" data-original-height="419" data-original-width="1369" height="196" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhjHMtXUI4ZhjNP4pZxG5WBt_QjlZwa_4M-ifgMr1dl95c2fpAkYTN5P8ARNzmmr_dsnBOPXRfZ0hDX7bDCIlsjBc5k8IInYEK8edsKA3H48FoxjnndFbX0glkh0Wl8IXHdpsJeX5wny3o/w640-h196/Orig+H1-H3+program+PAF.JPG" width="640" /></span></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: x-small;">As shown on the original Horizon 1-3 program submitted by the DND in 2017, PAF actually requested for 24 Multi-Role Fighters and 12 Fighter/Surface Attack Aircraft/Lead-in Fighter Trainer Aircraft under the Horizon 2 phase. This was reduced to 24 MRFs and 0 F/SAA/LIFTA, until the final Horizon 2 plan was reduced to 12 MRFs and 0 F/SAA/LIFTA. Photo screengrabed from DND document shared to MaxDefense PH.</span></td></tr></tbody></table><span style="font-family: arial;"><br /></span><p><span style="font-family: arial;">3. Another option was to move the project to Horizon 3 phase and wait for the next administration to continue this program.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial;">Obviously pushing the project back to Horizon 3 was not an acceptable option, considering the PAF is expected to request to procure more Multi-Role Fighters in that phase, as shown on the table above. Pushing the Horizon 2 MRF project to Horizon 3 would affect their ability to procure more MRFs and meet their targets by end of Horizon 3.<br /><br />While acquiring more FA-50PH is among the options, it was not a popular decision among PAF leaders and Air Defense Command leaders and officers. The point of acquiring the FA-50PH back in Horizon 1 phase was to prepare the PAF for MRFs under Horizon 2. Getting more FA-50s without making a significant jump to more capable aircraft does not make sense.<br /></span></p><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial;"><img border="0" data-original-height="604" data-original-width="912" height="422" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEid7PY9XtJ17sw7lKgQkk9gwg6J193sL388AYcmsYVokVnxT9MWeYP_RmZKP6nSnDl5e7PO9V_bwsTkSX_TcqbnVvSnmSF4lp0iPecnTaubaEAWdJedjpG7zkDjw9Zgzk4A1J8lqzsfDr4/s640/44639270_834670360036956_5212092235608227840_n.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" width="640" /></span></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: x-small;">A scale model of the JAS-39C Gripen was displayed in Basa Air Base during the "Balik Basa 2018" reunion. Photo shared by a MaxDefense PH community member.<br /><br /></span></td></tr></tbody></table><p><span style="font-family: arial;">Best option among the three options is to re-negotiate with Saab, and try to push down Saab's proposed cost to make it acceptable to the national government.<br /><br /><b><u><span style="color: #ffa400;">2020-2021: Shift to Saab JAS-39C/D Gripen:<br /></span></u></b><br />While MaxDefense PH does not have much more details on how negotiations between the PAF/DND and Saab/Swedish government pushed through, an agreement was reached by 2nd quarter of 2021.<br /><br />According to PAF and industry sources, the PAF TWG for the MRF Acquisition Project has re-submitted its recommendation selecting Saab's offer, and was approved by PAF and the GHQ AFP for submission to the DND.<br /></span></p><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjHfLw0VNzXqBg-Ya6YhUuhYrWDDG-WEqzRERllJj7nRejJR0JypgghSDaO-JlgiTP1ze-FCdFqkEKymnXNKlbWrinmjDBhj1tsHsNwQrN-6qsV8_7TDNM-GHiP7nKolnJU-b8uyWQs1ow/s2048/Czech+Gripen_100years_Evert_Keijzer_Ironbird_Photography_4.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><span style="font-family: arial;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1152" data-original-width="2048" height="360" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjHfLw0VNzXqBg-Ya6YhUuhYrWDDG-WEqzRERllJj7nRejJR0JypgghSDaO-JlgiTP1ze-FCdFqkEKymnXNKlbWrinmjDBhj1tsHsNwQrN-6qsV8_7TDNM-GHiP7nKolnJU-b8uyWQs1ow/w640-h360/Czech+Gripen_100years_Evert_Keijzer_Ironbird_Photography_4.jpg" width="640" /></span></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: x-small;">JAS-39C/D Gripen of the Czech Air Force. Photo credits to Saab.</span></td></tr></tbody></table><div><span style="font-family: arial;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-family: arial;">12 new Saab JAS-39C/D Gripen fighters will be supplied by Saab, plus an addition 2 units would be provided by Saab free of charge. All fighters would be upgraded to the latest MS20 standard with improved combat systems and avionics including the use of the latest PS-05 Mk.4 fire control radar.<br /><br />Although MaxDefense PH does not have an actual figure to the agreed price, sources confirmed that it is slightly less than the Php61.2 billion budget allocated for the project.<br /><br />Contrary to what was believed back in 2018, Saab will not include any Airborne Early Warning & Control (AEW&C) aircraft similar to its deal with Thailand in the past.<br /><br />Apparently the proposal was already submitted to the Department of National Defense (DND) as of early June 2021, and Defense Sec. Delfin Lorenzana himself was said to be very supportive of the project.<br /><br />This is currently the most expensive defense project ever to be undertaken by the Philippine Government.</span></div><span style="font-family: arial;"><br /></span><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgWev78XY6yE0c2EC3vo9zu__72Mz0sc45wfh8-H0rUw51WvT1vglJbuP55kwF-C4jMsvheAC-6OjXaQG4-DBdNCiJI9-6cCIFlH0ux-VeewkfwzZdSs7XmgB5Rmvf0W7ZEs-l16e331OQ/s1600/42562207_820459664791359_5944802665484517376_n.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: arial;"><img border="0" data-original-height="720" data-original-width="960" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgWev78XY6yE0c2EC3vo9zu__72Mz0sc45wfh8-H0rUw51WvT1vglJbuP55kwF-C4jMsvheAC-6OjXaQG4-DBdNCiJI9-6cCIFlH0ux-VeewkfwzZdSs7XmgB5Rmvf0W7ZEs-l16e331OQ/s640/42562207_820459664791359_5944802665484517376_n.jpg" width="640" /></span></a></div><p><span style="font-family: arial;"><br /></span></p><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhzeEyOiXyDfS6_jdUnfvBWd63TPjakHU6xrdvymTCDNMj39x-GHPqk23cVL01H0Sk2m5IRVhLNymqMCSTedhduq9nnql6AlvuZIFuGpasF7-Z0cPXjSXe4F8QABcJeVqLKXzep6F0lXZs/s1600/42592052_820459694791356_5804774929064787968_n.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><span style="font-family: arial;"><img border="0" data-original-height="720" data-original-width="960" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhzeEyOiXyDfS6_jdUnfvBWd63TPjakHU6xrdvymTCDNMj39x-GHPqk23cVL01H0Sk2m5IRVhLNymqMCSTedhduq9nnql6AlvuZIFuGpasF7-Z0cPXjSXe4F8QABcJeVqLKXzep6F0lXZs/s640/42592052_820459694791356_5804774929064787968_n.jpg" width="640" /></span></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: x-small;">Saab brought in a full-size mock-up of the JAS-39C Gripen during ADAS 2018 defense exhibition in Manila last September 2018. Interesting note on the 2nd photo showing its features. Photos shared by MaxDefense community members who attended the expo.</span></td></tr></tbody></table><p><span style="font-family: arial;"><br /><b><u><span style="color: red;">Potential Problems that Needs Settling Soon:<br /></span></u></b><br />While the project is believed to be only needing Malacanang approval for the funding to be made available and the contract to be signed, there are still issues that needs to be settled soon.<br /><br /><b><span style="color: #2b00fe;">1. Time Issues:<br /></span></b><br />The administration of Pres. Rodrigo Duterte has almost reached the final 1 year, as he will be ending his 6-year term by 30 June 2022. <br /><br />But in terms of approving projects and releasing funds and approving projects, the Duterte administration actually only has a few months to go for projects to become cleared from potentially being classified as "Midnight Deal" projects.<br /><br />The Multi-Role Fighter Acquisition Project should be able to have its contract signed and NTP (including initial funding) released by 1st quarter of 2022 at latest. That means around 9 months from now.<br /><br />If not, the DND would be in a better position to postpone and contract signing and funding release until a new administration and DND leadership comes in by July 2022. This is similar to what happened to the Frigate Acquisition Project.<br /><br />But this means threatening the project's continuity and legacy, as shown also on the Frigate Acquisition Project. While the succeeding administration did not cancel the Frigate project, it was altered to their benefit. And despite contract signing made during the Duterte administration, it does not solidify Duterte's claim that the project is his legacy, especially when the previous administration have made press releases prior to change in leadership that they were halting the contract signing out of respect of the next administration.<br /><br /><b><span style="color: #2b00fe;">2. Need for Philippine - Sweden Defense Cooperation Agreement: <br /></span></b><br />A mechanism to allow Government-to-Government (G2G) deals between the Philippines and Sweden needs to be settled immediately, before a contract can be signed between the DND and Saab. This could either be a Defense Cooperation Agreement, of Defense Cooperation Memorandum of Understanding (MOU).<br /><br />Both the Philippine and Swedish governments should start working out the agreement as soon as possible, as this is needed even before a contract could be signed between the DND and Saab. <br /><br /><b><u><span style="color: red;">The JAS-39C/D Gripen:<br /></span></u></b><br />While MaxDefense PH has mentioned many times that the F-16 Block 70 Viper was the more superior aircraft than the JAS-39C/D Gripen, that does not make the Gripen a poor aircraft.<br /><br />It only means that the Viper edges the Gripen in several features and capabilities due to its improvements compared to previous generation F-16 variants, which also made it more expensive than the Gripen C/D variant.<br /><br />Our previous analysis of the Gripen did not touch on performance values as these information can be obtained from other websites that are more familiar with fighter aircraft. Instead we just listed features where it outshines the F-16 Block 70 Viper.<span><br /></span></span></p><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjbdRcWRQM_OMDGkihNpnxsQlo9n4Dxj6zEVoby_KeBF-JyHZLd1UcAdDUfXyRiBdx1VRT0_1x8Xx93wX-Amqb2NG70jclTVfcDS-d8MtnM_DnD1MNLX1x27z-xe-4eG9cgfYPfxvNVSaY/s1600/44151705_830319900472002_5902120534627319808_n.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><span style="font-family: arial;"><img border="0" data-original-height="288" data-original-width="512" height="360" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjbdRcWRQM_OMDGkihNpnxsQlo9n4Dxj6zEVoby_KeBF-JyHZLd1UcAdDUfXyRiBdx1VRT0_1x8Xx93wX-Amqb2NG70jclTVfcDS-d8MtnM_DnD1MNLX1x27z-xe-4eG9cgfYPfxvNVSaY/s640/44151705_830319900472002_5902120534627319808_n.jpg" width="640" /></span></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: x-small;">The Saab JAS-39C Gripen. Photo credits to original source.</span></td></tr></tbody></table><span style="font-family: arial;"><span style="text-align: center;"><br /><b>Positive Notes:</b></span><span><span face=""arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif"><b><br /><br /></b></span><span face=""arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif">1. The current JAS-39C/D Gripen being offered to the PAF is said to be in the latest MS20 standard, and includes the PS-05 Mk. 4 pulse doppler radar, which is considered among the best non-AESA fire control radar for fighter aircraft in the world.<br /><br />The Mk.4 variant has made significant improvements over older variants of the PS-05 radar, including improved range, ability to detect low Radar Cross Section targets, enhanced jammer suppression, and improved missile-lock performance.<br /><br /></span><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjt_dRX2t-bMemZ45CyCsZxLHVKBLugGQ1W5JaXbsDmr-BHVEHYqJjn-3rG1nVET9rCTmOXbq7_0RpJ4GMrkWSxIivCV3TqFe2wYxvsTwi3rtHkEtT3S7jtdsV0yWBp0BOffMnp5zRO7cU/s1200/DssdEk_WkAErGeN.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="731" data-original-width="1200" height="390" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjt_dRX2t-bMemZ45CyCsZxLHVKBLugGQ1W5JaXbsDmr-BHVEHYqJjn-3rG1nVET9rCTmOXbq7_0RpJ4GMrkWSxIivCV3TqFe2wYxvsTwi3rtHkEtT3S7jtdsV0yWBp0BOffMnp5zRO7cU/w640-h390/DssdEk_WkAErGeN.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgHRxqnEm1mk4nw2eWgHAyobymFr9jgpsVnHIKWjOEUsXYFelWgNLSa_sNBy9tSWYhg7jQuK767ET-T1rstB_iZvzn-5BO_9PlYXJCiVL7YYAx0OlfJIIoheWqL8-Is5IFFPRsHajV1u04/s1600/PB222816.JPG" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgHRxqnEm1mk4nw2eWgHAyobymFr9jgpsVnHIKWjOEUsXYFelWgNLSa_sNBy9tSWYhg7jQuK767ET-T1rstB_iZvzn-5BO_9PlYXJCiVL7YYAx0OlfJIIoheWqL8-Is5IFFPRsHajV1u04/w640-h480/PB222816.JPG" width="640" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Some info on PS-05 Mk. 4 capability compared to older variants of the radar. Photo credits to Gripen News' Twitter account.</td></tr></tbody></table><br />2. The JAS-39C/D Gripen is cheaper to procure than the F-16 Block 70 Viper, at least in the Philippine competition as explained earlier in this blog. This allows savings in initial procurement cost.<br /><br />3. <span face=""arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif">There's the still debatable but widely accepted concept of Gripen's low operating cost, quick turn-around time, less requirements for infrastructure and manpower, and simplicity of overall operation.<br /><br /></span><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEivkHMgzsWVSoX4h5k9QveB0gS6R5CTJR4ux1_GRkHtzagSilGPxeUrcP5TkRZGbMET5IotNPMvhGuDVE2LbRdUBGxMWgzEmCFK3ZhUfJJWxYaemqtaU3V1JG9C6z-W-_3btb0mBWCNFgo/s1280/maxresdefault.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="720" data-original-width="1280" height="360" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEivkHMgzsWVSoX4h5k9QveB0gS6R5CTJR4ux1_GRkHtzagSilGPxeUrcP5TkRZGbMET5IotNPMvhGuDVE2LbRdUBGxMWgzEmCFK3ZhUfJJWxYaemqtaU3V1JG9C6z-W-_3btb0mBWCNFgo/w640-h360/maxresdefault.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgLS917EEhiCXMY-LQeu9zQJrTKQkSFhz7o_ThxQCC90qS6wBaDRG7IUk2JnNTdn9i8WEbfRSO_1ukfToFqAm8ICaw-Rbg9a7BxDH2BtJaPma6fovprvaSbN1zR8EHRYD7TKIrKszGWEuM/s480/71632_saabgripeninwoodedflightlinepositioncsaab_463974.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="270" data-original-width="480" height="360" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgLS917EEhiCXMY-LQeu9zQJrTKQkSFhz7o_ThxQCC90qS6wBaDRG7IUk2JnNTdn9i8WEbfRSO_1ukfToFqAm8ICaw-Rbg9a7BxDH2BtJaPma6fovprvaSbN1zR8EHRYD7TKIrKszGWEuM/w640-h360/71632_saabgripeninwoodedflightlinepositioncsaab_463974.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: x-small;">Fast turnaround and reduced crew requirements are among the key features Saab was said to win against the F-16 Viper. Photo credits to Saab and Flight Global.</span></td></tr></tbody></table><br />This means savings in sustainment compared to the F-16 Block 70 Viper in every flight hour, reduced and simplified crew requirements, and most likely cheaper maintenance.<br /><br />Saab claims that a team led by 1 technician and 5 semi-skilled personnel can re-arm, refuel, and turnaround a single Gripen fighter configured for air-to-air mission in 10 minutes, which is not expected to be possible with the F-16 Viper.<br /><span face=""arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif"><br />4. The Gripen uses the same engine design as the PAF's FA-50PH fleet, the Volvo RM12 turbofan engine which is essentially a version of the GE F404 engine that is already familiar with the PAF's maintenance and logistics team.<br /><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh6OYUGzbcq6DLKJdFSs3KtR0VC5466EWV8Jsf75IFZ-tKd_cVtgnyPpZkub-wv2CYVrzDkyAVj_Pp6G59Dr2SxS2LdOHDZgFFecAEVJnW0fQKjpD0jtrPhItWUVppOcBNSStd4Qk3MqVo/s1200/32379.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="630" data-original-width="1200" height="336" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh6OYUGzbcq6DLKJdFSs3KtR0VC5466EWV8Jsf75IFZ-tKd_cVtgnyPpZkub-wv2CYVrzDkyAVj_Pp6G59Dr2SxS2LdOHDZgFFecAEVJnW0fQKjpD0jtrPhItWUVppOcBNSStd4Qk3MqVo/w640-h336/32379.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: x-small;">The JAS-39C/D Gripen uses the Volvo RM12 afterburning turbofan engines, essentially a GE F404 engine in the same family as those used by PAF FA-50PH light combat aircraft. Photo credits to Saab.</span></td></tr></tbody></table><span></span></span></span></span><p></p><p><span style="font-family: arial;"><br />5. The JAS-39C/D Gripen uses the Meteor BVRAAM, which is said to be the best in its class. This is on top of the compatibility with several other munitions including the AIM-120 AMRAAM, MBDA MICA, and the IRIS-T missiles.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial;"></span></p><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgY1Ljdac0F7LygC5szBgykAV4G-kMUPJbhjFmByNXbaVRH0SeCvt_RwxLFR0jLtctxUBSfG3ttVFq6ObQvx3MF6Xkqcpf6FxJo1H7szdWaP3_5zciZSsogWxauvJsaAhRk2SY1QlFrJNw/s2200/39c_ms20_03.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><span style="font-family: arial;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1080" data-original-width="2200" height="314" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgY1Ljdac0F7LygC5szBgykAV4G-kMUPJbhjFmByNXbaVRH0SeCvt_RwxLFR0jLtctxUBSfG3ttVFq6ObQvx3MF6Xkqcpf6FxJo1H7szdWaP3_5zciZSsogWxauvJsaAhRk2SY1QlFrJNw/w640-h314/39c_ms20_03.jpg" width="640" /></span></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: x-small;">The MBDA Meteor medium-range air-to-air missile, said to be the best in the world, is compatible with the JAS-39 Gripen. Photo credits to AIN Online.</span></td></tr></tbody></table><span style="font-family: arial;"><br /></span><p></p><p><span style="font-family: arial;"><span><span face=""arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif">6. MaxDefense sources from the PAF confirmed that Saab guaranteed the delivery of the first 4 to 6 aircraft within 18 months (1.5 years) after Contract Signing and and release of Notice to Proceed. If PAF signs up for an MRF by 2021, it means the PAF could get their Gripens starting 2023, far earlier than the F-16 Viper standard delivery time which is around 4 years or 2025.</span></span><br /></span></p><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhecytMbJ5mn2glXSXEK3_B5KySr9JmGsJq3WhRVnTbV3-4xkgazYvZ5yxtWuvy5oG2_YMobvIM_hcPrS3OzS-fpKppYA-5T9IMStuK80TModdBcmxzVjyuzrCM0UAqGJHvXk4cCPlAsl8/s1600/bfacb9c1-d6b4-4bbb-942d-a77e181c9ad8.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><span style="font-family: arial;"><img border="0" data-original-height="833" data-original-width="1250" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhecytMbJ5mn2glXSXEK3_B5KySr9JmGsJq3WhRVnTbV3-4xkgazYvZ5yxtWuvy5oG2_YMobvIM_hcPrS3OzS-fpKppYA-5T9IMStuK80TModdBcmxzVjyuzrCM0UAqGJHvXk4cCPlAsl8/s640/bfacb9c1-d6b4-4bbb-942d-a77e181c9ad8.jpg" width="640" /></span></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: x-small;">One of the JAS-39 Gripen in Saab's production line, and is almost complete. Photos taken from SvD Naringsliv.</span></td></tr></tbody></table><p><span style="font-family: arial;"><span></span>7. Despite the variant already superceded by a new one in the form of the JAS-39E/F Gripen NG, Saab has made a commitment to fully support the continued development and improvement of the Saab JAS-39C/D Gripen through the next 30 years.<br /></span></p><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhxe3yw85KJ7q9uo9gVBiWftj7sFMwzcZfC1gbfaCJnu7_z2cGFiSuHoT2JIDzoVE58jGs12GQbqJp6xm1i6f6WhwPf-lMvrRzIhVL8rMqnfwnMPubgMSd3K25lLqNshb1wza18_KFPxb8/s1200/DssdEkUWsAEko88.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><span style="font-family: arial;"><img border="0" data-original-height="722" data-original-width="1200" height="384" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhxe3yw85KJ7q9uo9gVBiWftj7sFMwzcZfC1gbfaCJnu7_z2cGFiSuHoT2JIDzoVE58jGs12GQbqJp6xm1i6f6WhwPf-lMvrRzIhVL8rMqnfwnMPubgMSd3K25lLqNshb1wza18_KFPxb8/w640-h384/DssdEkUWsAEko88.jpg" width="640" /></span></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: x-small;">Roadmap for JAS-39C?D Gripen as committed by Saab to its international customers. Photo credits to Richard Smith's Twitter page.</span></td></tr></tbody></table><span style="font-family: arial;"><br />================<br /><br />With the DND and PAF determined to get this project ahead before it becomes too late, MaxDefense PH hopes that their request to make the Multi-Role Fighter Project funded by the National Government would be given priority, considering the limited time available.<br /><br />Saab, which has an office in Manila, should also work hard to make sure it uses all its available resources including getting support from the Swedish government to push the Duterte administration to make the project happen within the year.<br /><br /><span><b><u><span face=""arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif" style="color: red;">Summary:</span></u></b><br /><span face=""arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif"><span style="color: red;"><b><u><br /></u></b></span></span><span face=""arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif"><b><u>Multi-Role Fighter Acquisition Project (Horizon 2)</u></b></span><br /><span face=""arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif"><b><u><br /></u></b></span><span face=""arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif"><i>Note: Edited as of 06 June 2021.</i></span><br /><span face=""arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif"><b><u><br /></u></b></span><b>* End User:</b><span face=""arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif"> Philippine Air Force (5th Fighter Wing)</span><br /><span face=""arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif"><br />* <b>Quantity:</b> 12 aircraft or more</span><br /><span face=""arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif"><b><br />* Modernization Phase:</b> Horizon 2 Phase of RAFPMP</span><br /><span face=""arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif"><b><br />* Project ABC:</b> Php61,200,000,000.00 (approx. US$1.25 billion)</span><span face=""arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif"><br /><br />* </span><b>Acquisition Mode</b><span face=""arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif">: Negotiated Procurement (Government-to-Government)</span><br /><span face=""arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif"><b><br />* SARO Release:</b> TBA</span><br /><span face=""arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif"><b><br />* Winning Proponent:</b> TBA, expected to be SAAB AB.<br /><br />* <b>Product for Delivery: </b>TBA, expected to be Saab JAS-39C/D Gripen</span><span face=""arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif"><b><br /><br />* Contract Price:</b> TBA</span><br /><span face=""arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif"></span><br /><span face=""arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif">* <b>Status:</b> PAF TWG selected F-16C/D Block 70 Viper on August 2019. PAF approved selected on September 2019, and DND approved selection on 30 October 2019. Despite approval, pricing issues and lack of funding has stalled negotiation with Lockheed Martin and re-opened the line of communications with Saab as of 3rd quarter 2020. MaxDefense PH received multiple information confirming PAF TWG releasing new recommendation to proceed with Saab's offer, which was selected due to affordability/pricing issues, and delivery schedule. Recommendation was approved by CGPAF Lt. Gen. Paredes. As of June 2021, DND is said to prepare submitting proposal to Malacanang based on Saab's offer.</span><span face=""arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif"><br /></span><br /></span></span><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjLWXrHx0ayAQsldVigFGv-vBe1PYe46bVJGeoB3dFRi9AIlHGikK4DTjRHpYMHjBMWuOfr7Ey49q0W_1eJXJ9Yl4fRE4afsYp0ByRby1Mg6fX4-MVkF7XglcF95d3F-9u94xgzWbpTNfU/s1600/gripen-vs-f-16e.jpeg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><span style="font-family: arial;"><img border="0" data-original-height="900" data-original-width="900" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjLWXrHx0ayAQsldVigFGv-vBe1PYe46bVJGeoB3dFRi9AIlHGikK4DTjRHpYMHjBMWuOfr7Ey49q0W_1eJXJ9Yl4fRE4afsYp0ByRby1Mg6fX4-MVkF7XglcF95d3F-9u94xgzWbpTNfU/s640/gripen-vs-f-16e.jpeg" width="640" /></span></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: x-small;">The Saab JAS-39 Gripen C and Lockheed Martin F-16 Viper remain as the only shortlisted contenders for the PAF's MRF Acquisition Project, with the Viper selected in 2019, but was retracted due to several issues. By 2021, Gripen was selected for procurement. Photo taken from Aviatia.net.</span></td></tr></tbody></table><div><p><span style="font-family: arial;"><span>===============<br /><span>===============</span><br /><span>First release: 06 June 2021<br /></span></span><span>Copyright MaxDefense Philippines<br /></span></span></p><div><span style="clear: left; display: inline; font-family: arial; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiYWXCNgEKjy9PvhyXm0jmw-UnztULhhX9_GTnNx_JypEfRUOe07Cmiy5RovWdombNpNjDgXqOLGsfr3ebf42GCzvvv9mgDCJupEGN2BfPWB07rMXH1PWyeHsOmXJDQ-oAMnohCrulGckI/s1600/20160919_073729.jpg" style="clear: left; display: inline; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="227" data-original-width="961" height="75" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiYWXCNgEKjy9PvhyXm0jmw-UnztULhhX9_GTnNx_JypEfRUOe07Cmiy5RovWdombNpNjDgXqOLGsfr3ebf42GCzvvv9mgDCJupEGN2BfPWB07rMXH1PWyeHsOmXJDQ-oAMnohCrulGckI/s320/20160919_073729.jpg" width="320" /></a></span></div></div><div><span style="font-family: arial;"><br /></span></div><span style="font-family: arial;"><br /></span><br />max monterohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16217644456257635987noreply@blogger.com8tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3838050795464426329.post-14979126296914258022021-05-18T21:41:00.006+10:002021-05-21T08:13:44.973+10:00Discussing the Philippine Coast Guard's Coastal Radar Stations (Phase 1) Projects<p><span style="font-family: arial;"><br />The Philippine Coast Guard is a growing organization in terms of manpower, assets and capabilities. And with its growing responsibility and challenges to support in maritime safety and law enforcement, it needs new capabilities.<br /><br />Among those identified to improve its ability to "see" and monitor our country's maritime borders are the need for Coastal Radar Stations, which can detect, observe and monitor the movement of ships several miles away from our coastlines.<br /><br />With this, the Philippine Coast Guard has prioritized the construction of new Radar Stations especially in the southern part of the country, which has a more porous border due to the geography and being close to the borders with Malaysia and Indonesia.<br /><br />In this blog entry, which was authored by one of our active contributors<b><span style="color: #2b00fe;"> "Herbie"</span></b>, we discuss the projects related to the construction of a first batch of 21 Coast Guard Radar Stations, which we collectively called the Coastal Radar Stations Phase 1 Project of the Philippine Coast Guard.<br /><br />We would like to Herbie for his research, considering this is not the first time he is a guest writer for MaxDefense Philippines blogs.</span></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgVNWtbGyAMmgG79N1DfEMpZMT25fiMem3wDd39QjXwx0AgP1Lj243-daEJImPbJ8c19HZftKaXlb-0tPKtM7548VnakhxKl9Dy_jma4WTphdlOhiLYBno6_yZGIWUEeNnH4wVKv6Os9ek/s960/terma-radar-protecting-coast-of-india.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: arial;"><img border="0" data-original-height="364" data-original-width="960" height="242" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgVNWtbGyAMmgG79N1DfEMpZMT25fiMem3wDd39QjXwx0AgP1Lj243-daEJImPbJ8c19HZftKaXlb-0tPKtM7548VnakhxKl9Dy_jma4WTphdlOhiLYBno6_yZGIWUEeNnH4wVKv6Os9ek/w640-h242/terma-radar-protecting-coast-of-india.jpg" width="640" /></span></a></div><span style="font-family: arial;"><br /></span><p><b><u><span style="color: red; font-family: arial;">Overview:</span></u></b></p><p><span style="font-family: arial;">According to the Philippine Coast Guard, there is an urgent need to enhance the Philippines’ Maritime Domain Awareness to monitor its territorial and contiguous waters. The PCG's Coast Guard Weapons, Communications, Electronics, and Information System Command (CGWCEISC) have identified the need for 140 radar stations in order to come up with the whole picture of the country’s maritime domain. </span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial;">With a currently limited budget, the Southern Philippines, with some of the more popular tourist spot destinations and busy sea lanes, is the priority area for the establishment of the Radar Systems. <br /><br />Most of the prioritized radar locations are in the ZamBaSulTa (Zamboanga, Basilan, Sulu, Basilan) area.<br /><br />21 radars were prioritized under PCG's assessment as part of a 1st batch to be constructed nationally. To do this, several projects were made by the Philippine Coast Guard. <br /><br /><br /></span></p><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh7Ob8M4aMP7GYaNZuEQpUPVYsZDpHVa8aUXD3KpVSEfc7iDKLiNsNTATHED7-RChnEDe8rRlOd3fApEgcPxyrjsGCMzAYC2qvqygzp2rj5k4HsfW7852z_WpSorkdAthpX7gQGdRnsM3E/s655/CG+Radar+Station+Rio+Hondo+and+Sibutu.png" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><span style="font-family: arial;"><img border="0" data-original-height="457" data-original-width="655" height="446" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh7Ob8M4aMP7GYaNZuEQpUPVYsZDpHVa8aUXD3KpVSEfc7iDKLiNsNTATHED7-RChnEDe8rRlOd3fApEgcPxyrjsGCMzAYC2qvqygzp2rj5k4HsfW7852z_WpSorkdAthpX7gQGdRnsM3E/w640-h446/CG+Radar+Station+Rio+Hondo+and+Sibutu.png" width="640" /></span></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial;">Equipment used in CG Radar Stations Rio Hondo and Sibutu. Credits to DOTr.</span></td></tr></tbody></table><span style="font-family: arial;"><br /></span><p></p><p><span style="font-family: arial;">For easier reference, the author and MaxDefense Philippines called the combined projects as the PCG's Coastal Radar Stations Phase 1 Project, which can be subdivided into the construction of the 21 Coast Guard Radar Station buildings, the 10 Radar Station Systems publicly tendered, and the 11 Radar Systems donated by the Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA) as Grant Aid.<br /><br />The partitioning are as follows:</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial;"><b><u>1. Coast Guard Radar Station Buildings<br /></u></b><br /> <b>1a. Construction of 14 Radar Station Buildings: </b>1 project with an approved budget of Php140 million. This was publicly tendered, and Notice of Award was given to Fabmik Construction & Equipment, with a Contract worth Php139,528,339.02 signed and Notice to Proceed released on 01 February 2019.<br /></span></p><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiaChc3Lf1k9-JxzUPlq_06VBpXwjFyuQ1BDUXfEoycf8koIVf4SuudzKfwE7D3k0w6k4rVnIkvGxloESjQ7TGNV-kxS8naTvoBTebO06kucg3a0j-Vo8Wt7PTmlG2-Qg0HkkWpGjxwLyY/s1885/PhilGeps+Fabmik.png" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><span style="font-family: arial;"><img border="0" data-original-height="905" data-original-width="1885" height="308" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiaChc3Lf1k9-JxzUPlq_06VBpXwjFyuQ1BDUXfEoycf8koIVf4SuudzKfwE7D3k0w6k4rVnIkvGxloESjQ7TGNV-kxS8naTvoBTebO06kucg3a0j-Vo8Wt7PTmlG2-Qg0HkkWpGjxwLyY/w640-h308/PhilGeps+Fabmik.png" width="640" /></span></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial;">PhilGEPS screenshot showing details on Construction of 14 Radar Station Buildings.</span></td></tr></tbody></table><span style="font-family: arial;"><br /></span><p><span style="font-family: arial;"> <b> 1b. Construction of 5 Radar Station Buildings:</b> 1 project with an approved budget of Php50 million. This was also publicly tendered, with the Notice of Award given to Protech Construction and Development Corporation, with a Contract worth Php49,820,360.67 signed and Notice to Proceed released on 11 February 2019.</span></p><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjR0_AWXTAwtL91ISmo01a2PJQ84sNkeuXJH6LUNECUzg61GtKx8qIfdLkosR-wh9e8IBmh2pbmfAOHdD5nLUhw86izu-tPkWWMTQ6X15Q-Jp-QzWr7rMuDVcBz0i2fieuZKEfnFgdzX9M/s1885/PhilGeps+Protech.png" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><span style="font-family: arial;"><img border="0" data-original-height="877" data-original-width="1885" height="298" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjR0_AWXTAwtL91ISmo01a2PJQ84sNkeuXJH6LUNECUzg61GtKx8qIfdLkosR-wh9e8IBmh2pbmfAOHdD5nLUhw86izu-tPkWWMTQ6X15Q-Jp-QzWr7rMuDVcBz0i2fieuZKEfnFgdzX9M/w640-h298/PhilGeps+Protech.png" width="640" /></span></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial;">PhilGEPS screenshot showing details on Construction of 5 Radar Station Buildings.</span></td></tr></tbody></table><span style="font-family: arial;"><br /></span><p><span style="font-family: arial;"> <b>1c. Construction of CG Radar Station Kalamansig Building:</b> 1 project for a specific building location, with an approved budget of Php9.7 million. Also publicly tendered, the project was awarded to A.G Araja Construction & Development Corporation with a Contract amount of Php9,664,884.08 signed and Notice to Proceed on 13 January 2020.</span></p><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjcfv5h1YF5MaS7GjWS30nn1w8m2mRKWP0Rikp8KNbBWXCURCrImgqTIy6ka5jnsPISZpM7Hyk12oaV9ckk7vPMs4XPClm3B1zPlUERj_osix3JQFVvjCZuFbaeEi1-nQ40nrhgCmLHFLk/s1847/PhilGEPS+AG+Araja.png" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><span style="font-family: arial;"><img border="0" data-original-height="909" data-original-width="1847" height="314" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjcfv5h1YF5MaS7GjWS30nn1w8m2mRKWP0Rikp8KNbBWXCURCrImgqTIy6ka5jnsPISZpM7Hyk12oaV9ckk7vPMs4XPClm3B1zPlUERj_osix3JQFVvjCZuFbaeEi1-nQ40nrhgCmLHFLk/w640-h314/PhilGEPS+AG+Araja.png" width="640" /></span></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial;">PhilGEPS screenshot showing details on Construction of Radar Station Kalamansig Building.</span></td></tr></tbody></table><span style="font-family: arial;"><br /></span><p><span style="font-family: arial;"> <b> 1d. Construction of CG Radar Station Basilan Building:</b> another project specifically for 1 building, with an approved budget of Php21 million. A Notice of Award was given to an unidentified company, with contract signed and Notice to Proceed released on 21 June 2021.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial;"><br /><u><b>2. PCG Radar Station Systems:</b></u> 1 project specifically for the Supply, Delivery and Installation of Radar Systems, with 10 units involved. The project was also publicly tendered and was awarded to Scan Marine Inc. on 11 October 2019, with a contract worth Php196,770,896.00 signed and Notice to Proceed released on 21 October 2019.<br /></span></p><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhFNvgMcuMVChw6OpZQwehcCnVx4rsPllPGwAFjim1-AdLHYs9DnieaZ4wOvxCaSdrQM-tPyiid88Cx3N0Q2uF0iXwj2QCVviaPIhMhdu3SV69cLtYl88facYo0NWTmP4ewFUCR9TCll_o/s1633/PhilGEPS+scan+marine.png" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><span style="font-family: arial;"><img border="0" data-original-height="909" data-original-width="1633" height="356" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhFNvgMcuMVChw6OpZQwehcCnVx4rsPllPGwAFjim1-AdLHYs9DnieaZ4wOvxCaSdrQM-tPyiid88Cx3N0Q2uF0iXwj2QCVviaPIhMhdu3SV69cLtYl88facYo0NWTmP4ewFUCR9TCll_o/w640-h356/PhilGEPS+scan+marine.png" width="640" /></span></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial;">PhilGEPS record showing details on the Supply, Deliver and Installation of Radar Systems. Photo from Herbie, taken from PhilGEPS.</span></td></tr></tbody></table><span style="font-family: arial;"><br /></span><p><span style="font-family: arial;"><b><u>3. Japan Grant Aid Radar Systems: </u></b>this involves a JICA grant to the Philippines' Department of Transportation for the Philippine Coast Guard, involving the grant of 11 radar systems. <br /><br /><br /><b><u><span style="color: red;">21 Radar Station Locations:</span></u></b></span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial;">The Philippine Coast Guard Radar Project locations have been identified in previous publications. The following lists down the location of the radar stations under the Phase 1 projects:<br /><b><br />PCG Radar Project Locations:</b></span></p><ol><li><p style="line-height: 17.28px; margin-bottom: 0.28cm;"><span style="font-family: arial;">Mapun, Tawi-Tawi</span></p></li><li><p style="line-height: 17.28px; margin-bottom: 0.28cm;"><span style="font-family: arial;">Bayawan City, Negros Oriental</span></p></li><li><p style="line-height: 17.28px; margin-bottom: 0.28cm;"><span style="font-family: arial;">Bredco Port, Bacolod City, Negros Occidental</span></p></li><li><p style="line-height: 17.28px; margin-bottom: 0.28cm;"><span style="font-family: arial;">Boracay Island, Malay, Aklan</span></p></li><li><p style="line-height: 17.28px; margin-bottom: 0.28cm;"><span style="font-family: arial;">Balicasag Island, Panglao, Bohol</span></p></li><li><p style="line-height: 17.28px; margin-bottom: 0.28cm;"><span style="font-family: arial;">Dapitan City, Zamboanga Del Norte</span></p></li><li><p style="line-height: 17.28px; margin-bottom: 0.28cm;"><span style="font-family: arial;">Taganak, Turtle Islands, Tawi-Tawi</span></p></li><li><p style="line-height: 17.28px; margin-bottom: 0.28cm;"><span style="font-family: arial;">Sibutu, Tawi-Tawi</span></p></li><li><p style="line-height: 17.28px; margin-bottom: 0.28cm;"><span style="font-family: arial;">Pearl Bank, Tawi-Tawi</span></p></li><li><p style="line-height: 17.28px; margin-bottom: 0.28cm;"><span style="font-family: arial;">Sarangani, Davao Occidental</span></p></li></ol><p style="line-height: 17.28px; margin-bottom: 0.28cm;"><span style="font-family: arial;"><br /><b>Japan Grant Aid Radar Project Locations:</b></span></p><ol><li><p align="justify" style="line-height: 16px; margin-bottom: 0.04cm;"><span style="font-family: arial;">Brgy Talisayan, Zamboanga City</span></p></li><li><p align="justify" style="line-height: 16px; margin-bottom: 0.04cm;"><span style="font-family: arial;">Brgy Rio Hondo, Zamboanga City</span></p></li><li><p align="justify" style="line-height: 16px; margin-bottom: 0.04cm;"><span style="font-family: arial;">Brgy Siraway, Zamboanga City</span></p></li><li><p align="justify" style="line-height: 16px; margin-bottom: 0.04cm;"><span style="font-family: arial;">Olutanga, Zamboanga Sibugay</span></p></li><li><p align="justify" style="line-height: 16px; margin-bottom: 0.04cm;"><span style="font-family: arial;">Brgy Baganian, Tabina, Zamboanga del Sur</span></p></li><li><p align="justify" style="line-height: 16px; margin-bottom: 0.04cm;"><span style="font-family: arial;">Kalamansig, Sultan Kudarat</span></p></li><li><p align="justify" style="line-height: 16px; margin-bottom: 0.04cm;"><span style="font-family: arial;">Pangutaran, Sulu</span></p></li><li><p align="justify" style="line-height: 16px; margin-bottom: 0.04cm;"><span style="font-family: arial;">Kawayan, Lugus Sulu</span></p></li><li><p align="justify" style="line-height: 16px; margin-bottom: 0.04cm;"><span style="font-family: arial;">Bongao, Tawi-tawi</span></p></li><li><p style="line-height: 16px; margin-bottom: 0.04cm;"><span style="font-family: arial;">Basilan</span></p></li><li><p style="line-height: 16px; margin-bottom: 0.04cm;"><span style="font-family: arial;">Port Area, Sulu</span></p></li></ol><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="942" data-original-width="1214" height="496" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhq9dFaTxukx63dIQB5HfLfDBvXfo9xTCT7gFivpdyTmFEeQv3DIdMaPedynyELV66cutSbrVObuqLDcJYrr8KupOxI-jF3HNdIiFMVmyspTgToPWmrPoeE5sNwhLHuinpgyTYHO-3XVIY/w640-h496/PCG+Radar+Locations.png" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" width="640" /></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial;">A map showing the location of radar stations to be installed under this phase, separating PH funded and Japan funded radars. Photo credits to DOTr.</span></td></tr></tbody></table><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhq9dFaTxukx63dIQB5HfLfDBvXfo9xTCT7gFivpdyTmFEeQv3DIdMaPedynyELV66cutSbrVObuqLDcJYrr8KupOxI-jF3HNdIiFMVmyspTgToPWmrPoeE5sNwhLHuinpgyTYHO-3XVIY/s1214/PCG+Radar+Locations.png" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: arial;"></span></a></div><span style="font-family: arial;"><br /></span><p style="line-height: 17.28px; margin-bottom: 0.28cm;"><span style="font-family: arial;"><br /><b><u><span style="color: red;">Radar System Technical Specifications:</span></u></b></span></p>
<p style="line-height: 108%; margin-bottom: 0.28cm;"><span style="font-family: arial;">The systems
purchased by the PCG includes a Radar, AIS Base Receiver, Coastal
Camera with Day/Night capability, towers (at least 21 meters high),
various Base and Marine-band radios, hardware, software, CCTV systems
and power sources for each radar station. <br /><br />It is surprising to see the
Technical Specifications have a specific radar brand (FURUNO) and
model in mind perhaps to match the radar systems donated by JICA.
FURUNO and ICOM are the brands used for the various surveillance
equipment.<br /><br /><b><u><span style="color: red;"><br />Status of the Project:</span></u></b></span></p><p style="line-height: 108%; margin-bottom: 0.28cm;"><span style="font-family: arial;">Based on photos and information from the Philippine Coast Guard and our sources, several of the radar station buildings have already been completed, although several are still scheduled for construction as of early 2021.<br /><br />Photos of some of the radar station buildings can be seen below.<br /></span></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi2aVFiKVcZnAZaJjP0MdSkhm7-kbrFZS1cX9SUFV0NjpuFZNTpY0R4N9vPZNLfvkgcNwF69Kf_hfCuvStYWucp8AbtFaSOV0k7VyczoX_FXHpdWuEsmAqAhqQarmufys9Yjdrvnm_3iBY/s655/Sibutu+Radar+Station.png" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: arial;"><img border="0" data-original-height="655" data-original-width="617" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi2aVFiKVcZnAZaJjP0MdSkhm7-kbrFZS1cX9SUFV0NjpuFZNTpY0R4N9vPZNLfvkgcNwF69Kf_hfCuvStYWucp8AbtFaSOV0k7VyczoX_FXHpdWuEsmAqAhqQarmufys9Yjdrvnm_3iBY/w602-h640/Sibutu+Radar+Station.png" width="602" /></span></a></div><span style="font-family: arial;"><br /></span><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhYELaDwXWPjg4Piq8cbA-5MlnsWdtIV85bSwFeBmhsiuDgabZ_ddmdGgU6FYIIcU9Nq7jkB33n3h-oIEgvMKASN3nus_H_KAqvtf-NRaONQVVydFepcnUzh_GxdKKvFq6myXUzwkZjt60/s903/CG+Radar+Station+Utolanga.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: arial;"><img border="0" data-original-height="302" data-original-width="903" height="214" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhYELaDwXWPjg4Piq8cbA-5MlnsWdtIV85bSwFeBmhsiuDgabZ_ddmdGgU6FYIIcU9Nq7jkB33n3h-oIEgvMKASN3nus_H_KAqvtf-NRaONQVVydFepcnUzh_GxdKKvFq6myXUzwkZjt60/w640-h214/CG+Radar+Station+Utolanga.jpg" width="640" /></span></a></div><span style="font-family: arial;"><br /></span><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiZHwyOdL_xIl0t0Iy08ghvayCV5q6gdrNHFn3mbWEa4MJHW72TpgRN4kspgNR2xr0494dxwrjIcTQs_rAkxCf6DOlX2ypGFLWXARKiMte3LzBoUlvvnz2jI-hdbCjPUSiS_Wzbbp3G0ug/s903/CG+Radar+Station+Bayawan+and+Balicasag.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><span style="font-family: arial;"><img border="0" data-original-height="302" data-original-width="903" height="214" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiZHwyOdL_xIl0t0Iy08ghvayCV5q6gdrNHFn3mbWEa4MJHW72TpgRN4kspgNR2xr0494dxwrjIcTQs_rAkxCf6DOlX2ypGFLWXARKiMte3LzBoUlvvnz2jI-hdbCjPUSiS_Wzbbp3G0ug/w640-h214/CG+Radar+Station+Bayawan+and+Balicasag.jpg" width="640" /></span></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial;">Top: Coast Guard Radar Station Sibutu, Tawi-Tawi. Middle: Coast Guard Radar Station Olutanga, Zamboanga Sibugay. Bottom: Coast Guard Radar Stations Bayawan, Negros Oriental, and Coast Guard Radar Station Balicasag, Bohol. Photo credits to DOTr.</span></td></tr></tbody></table><span style="font-family: arial;"><br /><br /></span><div><span style="font-family: arial;">Meanwhile, Scan Marine Inc. has deliver the radar systems to the Philippine Coast Guard. Installation will also be part of their scope of works, including making sure that the system works.<br /><br />It remains to be seen though if their scope also includes making the radars connected to the National Coast Watch System, which is also operated by the Philippine Coast Guard together with other government agencies.<br /><br /><b><u><span style="color: red;">Other PCG Radar-Related Proposals</span></u></b></span></div><div><p style="line-height: 108%; margin-bottom: 0.28cm;"><span style="font-family: arial;">With the PCG
stating that they have identified 140 radar stations in order to come
up with the whole picture of the country’s maritime domain, here
are some PCG projects proposed last 2019 for the 2020 budget but not
funded yet by the National Government:</span></p>
<ol>
<li><p style="line-height: 108%; margin-bottom: 0.28cm;"><span style="font-family: arial;">Construction
of Coast Guard Radar Stations – Php1.62 billion. This would allow the PCG to construct more radar stations to eventually meet the 140 radar stations needed to cover the entire country.</span></p>
</li><li><p style="line-height: 108%; margin-bottom: 0.28cm;"><span style="font-family: arial;">Procurement
of Coast Guard Radar Equipment – Php2.7 billion. This is related to the construction of radar stations.<br /></span></p>
</li><li><p style="line-height: 108%; margin-bottom: 0.28cm;"><span style="font-family: arial;">Beyond the
Horizon Radar – Php400 million. This system is far more capable than standard coastal radars due to its wider and longer detection range, which would allow to see beyond the country's territorial waters and into its Exclusive Economic Zone, together with other assets like aircraft, ships and satellites.</span></p>
</li><li><p style="line-height: 108%; margin-bottom: 0.28cm;"><span style="font-family: arial;">Inter-agency
harmonized and enhanced surveillance, enforcement, and development
capabilities for the West Philippine Sea and Philippine Rise – Php5.614 billion. This is something that could help enhance interoperability with other agencies including the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP), the Philippine National Police Maritime Group (PNP-MARIG), the Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources (BFAR), and other agencies involved in monitoring the West and East Philippine Sea including the Philippine Rise.</span></p></li></ol><p style="line-height: 108%; margin-bottom: 0.28cm;"><span style="font-family: arial;"><br />===============</span></p><p style="line-height: 108%; margin-bottom: 0.28cm;"><span style="font-family: arial;"><span>There are many more interesting and exciting new projects coming with the Philippine Coast Guard, as they are given much more support financially and politically. This is as the service becomes the foremost agency in enforcing maritime laws, conducting search and rescue, and protecting our country's maritime territories and interest without creating tension considering its civilian nature.<br /><br />With the slowdown in defense projects, MaxDefense Philippines is expected to provide more reports from the Philippine Coast Guard's modernization, especially with commitments to improve it further than ever before.<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhhTzEP9n2RUniq2p_SEpshotszqF9XJdDDk5FO6xT2zKlBYDXePQTeYZZUsHjJrtcZmQAt9cjlAwnSusAQ47nzO4odshQPfzoPdiJtezhF33MfbqAv1N9Zf4XY7Ncoe-syQcaQ4IkxTcQ/s770/Philippine-Coast-Guard-MRRV-Japan-770x410.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="410" data-original-width="770" height="340" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhhTzEP9n2RUniq2p_SEpshotszqF9XJdDDk5FO6xT2zKlBYDXePQTeYZZUsHjJrtcZmQAt9cjlAwnSusAQ47nzO4odshQPfzoPdiJtezhF33MfbqAv1N9Zf4XY7Ncoe-syQcaQ4IkxTcQ/w640-h340/Philippine-Coast-Guard-MRRV-Japan-770x410.jpg" width="640" /></a><br /></span><br /></span></p><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhsM17yDnpSqXEJxwrLZMKXVySwjZ8nIYdGFDPSLpCZFNsrMRgE7N_kFBLb1oHs-RyR_Xa546ARhrSxpdg-d0TEY4egmcbEJstKMGBBDZSQCdemj2lcypNSlhH-qZD3Yuja4M3VWVtFBjQ/s753/brp-gabriela-silang-ocea.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><span style="font-family: arial;"><img border="0" data-original-height="502" data-original-width="753" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhsM17yDnpSqXEJxwrLZMKXVySwjZ8nIYdGFDPSLpCZFNsrMRgE7N_kFBLb1oHs-RyR_Xa546ARhrSxpdg-d0TEY4egmcbEJstKMGBBDZSQCdemj2lcypNSlhH-qZD3Yuja4M3VWVtFBjQ/w640-h426/brp-gabriela-silang-ocea.jpg" width="640" /></span></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial;">More and larger patrol vessels are underway to beef up the PCG's surface fleet. Photo credits to original sources.</span></td></tr></tbody></table><span style="font-family: arial;"><br /><span>===============<br /></span></span><p style="line-height: 108%; margin-bottom: 0.28cm;"><span style="font-family: arial;"><b><u><span style="color: red;">Project Summary: </span></u></b><br /><br /><b><u>Coastal Radar Stations (Phase 1) Projects of the PCG (collection of
several projects)</u></b></span></p>
<p style="line-height: 108%; margin-bottom: 0.28cm;"><span style="font-family: arial;"><i>Note: Edited as of 19 May 2021.</i><br /><br /><b>* End User:</b>
Philippine Coast Guard</span></p>
<p style="line-height: 108%; margin-bottom: 0.28cm;"><span style="font-family: arial;"><b>* Quantity:</b> 21
Radar Stations</span></p>
<p style="line-height: 108%; margin-bottom: 0.28cm;"><span style="font-family: arial;"><b>* Project ABC: <br /></b> - 1a. Php140 million; <br /> - 1b. Php50 million; <br /> - 1c. Php9.7 million (Kalamansig); <br /> - 1d. Php21
million (Basilan); 2<br /> - 2. Php197.059 million; <br /> - 3. JPY 1 billion</span></p>
<p style="line-height: 108%; margin-bottom: 0.28cm;"><span style="font-family: arial;"><b>* Acquisition Mode:
</b><br /> - 1a. Negotiated Procurement; <br /> - 1b. Negotiated Procurement; <br /> - 1c.
Negotiated Procurement; <br /> - 1d. Expected to be through public bidding; <br /> - 2. Public Bidding;
<br /> - 3. Grant Aid (Japan radar systems)</span></p>
<p style="line-height: 108%; margin-bottom: 0.28cm;"><span style="font-family: arial;">* <b>Source of
Funding:</b> GAA Funds, and Japan Grant Aid</span></p>
<p style="line-height: 108%; margin-bottom: 0.28cm;"><span style="font-family: arial;"><b>* SARO Release:</b> TBA</span></p>
<p style="line-height: 108%; margin-bottom: 0.28cm;"><span style="font-family: arial;"><b>* Winning
Proponent: </b><br /> - 1a. Fabmik Construction and Equipment Co. Inc.; <br /> - 1b.
Protech Construction and Development Corporation; <br /> - 1c. A.G. Araja
Construction & Development Corporation; <br /> - 1d. TBC; <br /> - 2.
Scan Marine Inc.; <br /> - 3. TBC</span></p>
<p style="line-height: 108%; margin-bottom: 0.28cm;"><span style="font-family: arial;"><b>* Product for
Delivery: </b><br /> - 1a. 15 radar station buildings.; <br /> - 1b. 4 radar station
buildings;<br /> - 1c. 1 radar station building; <br /> - 1d. 1 radar station
building; <br /> - 2. 10 Radar Station Systems; <br /> - 3. 11 Radar Station
Systems.</span></p>
<p style="line-height: 108%; margin-bottom: 0.28cm;"><span style="font-family: arial;"><b>* Contract Price/s:
</b><br /> - 1a..Php139,528,339.02; <br /> - 1b. Php49,820,360.67; <br /> - 1c. Php9,664,884.08<br /> - 1d. Not
bidded out yet; <br /> - 2. Php196,770,896.00<br /> - 3a. TBA</span></p>
<p style="line-height: 108%; margin-bottom: 0.28cm;"><span style="font-family: arial;"><b>* First post by
MaxDefense:</b> TBA</span></p>
<p style="line-height: 108%; margin-bottom: 0.28cm;"><span style="font-family: arial;"><b>* MaxDefense
Searching Hashtag</b>: #PCGCoastalRadarStationsP1Acquisition </span></p>
<p style="line-height: 108%; margin-bottom: 0.28cm;"><span style="font-family: arial;"><b>* Project Status: </b> Items 1a to 1c are under construction, with some already completed. Item 1d. is scheduled for tender. Delivery of Item 2 are ongoing, and will be dependent on the completion of the Coast
Guard Station buildings. Item 3a was reported to have already been delivered to the PCG.</span></p><span style="font-family: arial;">===============<br />===============<br /></span><span style="font-family: arial;">First edit and release: 18 May 2021<br />Copyright MaxDefense Philippines & Herbie<br /></span><span style="font-family: arial;"><span style="clear: left; display: inline; font-family: arial; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiYWXCNgEKjy9PvhyXm0jmw-UnztULhhX9_GTnNx_JypEfRUOe07Cmiy5RovWdombNpNjDgXqOLGsfr3ebf42GCzvvv9mgDCJupEGN2BfPWB07rMXH1PWyeHsOmXJDQ-oAMnohCrulGckI/s1600/20160919_073729.jpg" style="clear: left; display: inline; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="227" data-original-width="961" height="75" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiYWXCNgEKjy9PvhyXm0jmw-UnztULhhX9_GTnNx_JypEfRUOe07Cmiy5RovWdombNpNjDgXqOLGsfr3ebf42GCzvvv9mgDCJupEGN2BfPWB07rMXH1PWyeHsOmXJDQ-oAMnohCrulGckI/s320/20160919_073729.jpg" width="320" /></a></span></span>
<p></p>
</div>max monterohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16217644456257635987noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3838050795464426329.post-66161126167395832592021-05-05T22:44:00.000+10:002021-05-05T22:44:06.361+10:00Philippine Navy starts acquisition of 1st batch of new Harbor and Oceangoing Tugboats<p><span style="font-family: arial;"> The Philippine Navy has embarked on the acquisition of a harbor tugboat as well as an ocean-capable tugboat to assist larger naval vessels during entering to and leaving from their designated berthing and anchoring stations, aid vessels in manoeuvring in restricted waterways, and other harbor and towing duties.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial;">With the Horizon 2 Priority Projects already approved in 2018, the Philippine Navy has decided to make use of the 2nd List of Horizon 2 phase to include this project.<br /><br />The Harbor and Ocean-Going Tugboats Acquisition Project of the Philippine Navy was born out of need for new tugboats, with an initial 2 units eyed for acquisition through public bidding starting 2021.<br /></span></p><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEihktLkui0lwHZjXCxSuj04LeVC1g5_z2LCLzkL2_24CSDg_7gzb7fvGTZ1fW49Hf4DTwYhzhKAryrLKwq5ZiAw-6RCmPNqzQtooBOmw2d9TzlnRB89y6fLO6_AVe_HN8F1FW26QIvElr0/s1024/2017-02-02_15-49-34-1024x593.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><span style="font-family: arial;"><img border="0" data-original-height="593" data-original-width="1024" height="370" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEihktLkui0lwHZjXCxSuj04LeVC1g5_z2LCLzkL2_24CSDg_7gzb7fvGTZ1fW49Hf4DTwYhzhKAryrLKwq5ZiAw-6RCmPNqzQtooBOmw2d9TzlnRB89y6fLO6_AVe_HN8F1FW26QIvElr0/w640-h370/2017-02-02_15-49-34-1024x593.jpg" width="640" /></span></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: x-small;">A new naval harbor tugboat built in Thailand for the Royal Thai Navy.Photo credits to Marine Link.</span></td></tr></tbody></table><p><span style="font-family: arial;"><b><u><span style="color: red;">Overview:<br /></span></u></b><br />The Philippine Navy has started modernizing its surface assets as most of its current assets are already beyond their expected lifespan. This includes the tugboats being operated by the service to service ships at port.<br /><br />Not only are most of the PN's tugboats too old, but also lacking in numbers and are small in size. These tugboats are only capable of operating within port areas and in littoral areas.<br /></span></p><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj8TudFrzL_cH9w0UPM4qTq1WnlKmzDdSEt_ml_nMkGl3f9WE7rYpVnKUcvLRSsYPioAV78-3ubzNTnR1X_YxHA4D8_LmvRS7Up2t319PgMq6hbyR19CT5htbS3kgDujbMS1N7BuBpQMBs/s600/NAVY-SHIPS.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><span style="font-family: arial;"><img border="0" data-original-height="380" data-original-width="600" height="404" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj8TudFrzL_cH9w0UPM4qTq1WnlKmzDdSEt_ml_nMkGl3f9WE7rYpVnKUcvLRSsYPioAV78-3ubzNTnR1X_YxHA4D8_LmvRS7Up2t319PgMq6hbyR19CT5htbS3kgDujbMS1N7BuBpQMBs/w640-h404/NAVY-SHIPS.jpg" width="640" /></span></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: x-small;">Most, if not all of the PN's tugboats are not ocean-going and are old, hand-me-downs from the US, like the BRP YT-273 (above). Photo credits to UNTV Radio.</span></td></tr></tbody></table><p><span style="font-family: arial;">The accidental grounding of the patrol frigate BRP <i>Gregorio del Pilar</i> (PS-15) in the Hasa-Hasa Shoal in August 2018, and the lack of sufficient tugboats to pull the ship out of the shoal and tow it to safety was an eye-opener for Philippine Navy officials.<br /><br />The Philippine Navy have to get the services of commercial tugboat operators to do the job as the service does not have any tugboats capable of such job. On top of that, the cost of the tugboat service from Hasa-Hasa Shoal to Subic Bay apparently costed the Philippine Navy a huge sum, which could have been enough for the service to buy a slightly-used tugboat in the international market.<br /></span></p><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjIinDNmrYzirvd-86Osspe3brgfSl5SHS-noxs0_yNwMKGz3a5cG4KDp19B6ts8gFrRD5AHrDGM-Rru2FsXXeHU3XtL23nh3UtqJ7KHWNocmG1zzGv8CHVNUBBcIHaiSt76Ssni31d9MY/s960/20180907_02.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><span style="font-family: arial;"><img border="0" data-original-height="600" data-original-width="960" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjIinDNmrYzirvd-86Osspe3brgfSl5SHS-noxs0_yNwMKGz3a5cG4KDp19B6ts8gFrRD5AHrDGM-Rru2FsXXeHU3XtL23nh3UtqJ7KHWNocmG1zzGv8CHVNUBBcIHaiSt76Ssni31d9MY/w640-h400/20180907_02.jpg" width="640" /></span></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: x-small;">The BRP <i>Gregorio del Pilar</i> (PS-15) stranded at Hasa-Hasa Shoal. Photo credits to Philippine Navy.</span></td></tr></tbody></table><span style="font-family: arial;"><br />It was also reported then that China offered to help pull out the stranded BRP <i>Gregorio del Pilar</i> (PS-15) out as they know the Philippine Navy did not have the capacity to do it on its own, and out of fear that the Philippines might let the ship remain in the shoal as a temporary base.<br /><br /></span><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEibv7nn9sVD8v5De6safe33OU7k5a096fkwRDeTOisbv_eZ8k5ewIXFAcWVq0LDh69QF0KDwmKcdzfONRzav7O1ynrnYUD4646DMStgkhWmL5hF0bDIUhwfeFl1lpmosRpRoAiKqoX-sO8/s1280/cnc_ed_cartoon.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><span style="font-family: arial;"><img border="0" data-original-height="880" data-original-width="1280" height="440" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEibv7nn9sVD8v5De6safe33OU7k5a096fkwRDeTOisbv_eZ8k5ewIXFAcWVq0LDh69QF0KDwmKcdzfONRzav7O1ynrnYUD4646DMStgkhWmL5hF0bDIUhwfeFl1lpmosRpRoAiKqoX-sO8/w640-h440/cnc_ed_cartoon.jpg" width="640" /></span></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: x-small;">Credits to original source.</span></td></tr></tbody></table><p><b><u><span style="color: red; font-family: arial;">Tugboat Procurement Plans:</span></u></b></p><p><span style="font-family: arial;">In 2020, MaxDefense Philippines received information from sources that the Philippine Navy has started the pre-procurement process to acquire 2 tugboats with a budget of Php600 million. These tugboats would also have firefighting capability to assist other ships or shore facilities on fire.<br /></span></p><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi6sOJodsY_17rwG9K_yjRPUSNI9Be-OdJv-wDtJRlYY5UjkWtoJ5paewoxedpL0tikuCMRt8VxOwPpy6WEWa3KXjh6JWdLbYJdX3uIh6jCsBNxiASrn7_JEATLX5pPZoT387KlQmHaFKY/s720/pn-ship.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><span style="font-family: arial;"><img border="0" data-original-height="377" data-original-width="720" height="336" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi6sOJodsY_17rwG9K_yjRPUSNI9Be-OdJv-wDtJRlYY5UjkWtoJ5paewoxedpL0tikuCMRt8VxOwPpy6WEWa3KXjh6JWdLbYJdX3uIh6jCsBNxiASrn7_JEATLX5pPZoT387KlQmHaFKY/w640-h336/pn-ship.jpg" width="640" /></span></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: x-small;">2 commercial tugboats assisted BRP <i>Ramon Alcaraz</i> (PS-16) as it leaves the Sri Lanka's East Container Terminal in early 2020. Photo credits to Philippine Navy.</span></td></tr></tbody></table><p></p><p><span style="font-family: arial;">The ships are not expected to be armed by external-mounted weapons, but its crew can be equipped with small arms, as the boats will have its own armory.<br /><br />The Invitation to Bid (ITB) for the project was released on 03 May 2021, with the Submission of Bids deadline and Bid Opening Date set on 25 May 2021, although this could change depending on outcome of the Pre-Bid Meeting on 11 May 2021.<br /><br />Aside from these 2 boats being acquired in this project, MaxDefense Philippines expects that additional tugboats would be acquired in the following years, as the Philippine Navy is hoping to have at least 6 new tugboats to be assigned in major Philippine Navy facilities in Cavite, Subic, and Cebu.</span></p><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEguQNeHlZd8i_We_MtBQRivW3LdQvzLVM5DeC9-Trqtm2fRpEjRqf-5S7M7uC1pExWNqL5EO6wxoJmdoEFLICtZm3DrDbKR1gr9-T9zMODwkwSxlwAIo_87IesJOoegPuQfjr6rvkU4Y6E/s2048/RT_Raven_-_small.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><span style="font-family: arial;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1365" data-original-width="2048" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEguQNeHlZd8i_We_MtBQRivW3LdQvzLVM5DeC9-Trqtm2fRpEjRqf-5S7M7uC1pExWNqL5EO6wxoJmdoEFLICtZm3DrDbKR1gr9-T9zMODwkwSxlwAIo_87IesJOoegPuQfjr6rvkU4Y6E/w640-h426/RT_Raven_-_small.jpg" width="640" /></span></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: x-small;">An ocean-going tugboat, in which the PN wants to have 1 in this project. Photo credits to Kotug.</span></td></tr></tbody></table><p></p><p><span style="font-family: arial;">It remains to be seen if the PN could get the funds needed for another batch of tugboats, which is said to be for acquisition starting 2022, and another batch of 2 tugboats funded by 2023.<br /><br />No information has been provided though if the Philippine Navy would retire its older tugboats, although it appears that they will remain for several years more.<br /><br /><b><u><span style="color: red;">Basic Requirements:</span></u></b></span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial;"><span>Delivery date is expected in 540 calendar days from release of Notice to Proceed (NTP). It is expected that should the tender be successful in its first attempt, the NTP could potentially be released before yearend. And 540 calendar days would be around 2023.<br /><br />The Harbor Tugboat is expected to be at least 26 meters long, displaces at least 400 tons, a crew of 10 personnel, a maximum range of 900 nautical miles, a Bollard Pull capacity of at least 40 tons, and be able to operate up to Sea State 6.<br /><br />Meanwhile, the Ocean-going Tugboat will be at least 30 meters long, displaces at least 600 tons, a crew of 10 personnel, </span>a maximum range of 1,500 nautical miles, a Bollard Pull capacity of at least 60 tons, and be able to operate up to Sea State 6.</span></p><p><b><span style="color: red; font-family: arial; text-decoration-line: underline;">Project Summary:</span></b></p><p><span style="font-family: arial;"><span face=""arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif"><b><u>Harbor and Ocean-Going Tugboats Acquisition Project:</u></b></span><br /><span face=""arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif"><span face=""arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif"><b><u><br /></u></b><i>Note: Edited as of 04 May 2021.</i><br /><b><u><br /></u></b></span><span face=""arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif"><b>* End User:</b> Philippine Navy <br /><br />* <b>Quantity:</b> 1 Harbor Tugboat, and 1 Oceangoing Tugboat, including Integrated Logistics Support</span></span><br /><span face=""arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif"><b><br />* Modernization Phase:</b> 2nd List of Horizon 2 Phase of RAFPMP</span><br /><span face=""arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif"><span face=""arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif"><b><br />* Project ABC:</b> Php600,000,000.00</span><span face=""arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif"><br /><br />* </span><b>Acquisition Mode</b><span face=""arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif">: Public Bidding<br /><br /><b>* Source of Funding:</b> GAA Funds through AFP Modernization Program Trust Fund</span></span><br /><span face=""arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif"><b><br />* SARO Release/s: </b>TBA</span><br /><span face=""arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif"><b><br /></b><b>* Winning Proponent:</b><span face=""arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif"> TBA</span></span><br /><span face=""arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif"><br />* <b>Product for Delivery: </b>TBA</span><br /><span face=""arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif"><br /><b>* Contract Price:</b> TBA</span><br /><span face=""arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif"><b><br /></b><b>* First post by MaxDefense: </b>04 May 2021</span><br /><span face=""arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif"><b><br /></b><b>* MaxDefense Searching Hashtag:</b><span face=""arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif"> #PNTugboatsAcquisition </span></span><br /><span face=""arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif"><span face=""arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif"><b><br /></b></span><span face=""arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif"><b>* Status:</b> Invitation to Bid released by the DND on May 2021, for Public Bidding. Submission of bids scheduled on 25 May 2021.<br /><br /></span><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjK2rlXednx5pHU7EGBeevWNxSaQEFWSextlRvoObbmxy3RjleZeKvxm74YIW2HzQSidHS5ARkh7aLxXWWvZ1fFHQAvYweqCAptg0B-xs3UZ4udC2y2JsHD43-pBN0WGCt_XBW3Qo9PKO0/s666/photo-robert-allan-ltd-74373.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="500" data-original-width="666" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjK2rlXednx5pHU7EGBeevWNxSaQEFWSextlRvoObbmxy3RjleZeKvxm74YIW2HzQSidHS5ARkh7aLxXWWvZ1fFHQAvYweqCAptg0B-xs3UZ4udC2y2JsHD43-pBN0WGCt_XBW3Qo9PKO0/w640-h480/photo-robert-allan-ltd-74373.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: x-small;">Tugboats can also provide firefighting assistance to ships or shore facilities. Photo credits to Marine Link.</span></td></tr></tbody></table></span></span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial;">===============<br /></span><span style="font-family: arial;">===============<br /></span><span style="font-family: arial;">First edit and release: 04 May 2021<br />Copyright MaxDefense Philippines<br /></span><span style="font-family: arial;"><span style="clear: left; display: inline; font-family: arial; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiYWXCNgEKjy9PvhyXm0jmw-UnztULhhX9_GTnNx_JypEfRUOe07Cmiy5RovWdombNpNjDgXqOLGsfr3ebf42GCzvvv9mgDCJupEGN2BfPWB07rMXH1PWyeHsOmXJDQ-oAMnohCrulGckI/s1600/20160919_073729.jpg" style="clear: left; display: inline; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="227" data-original-width="961" height="75" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiYWXCNgEKjy9PvhyXm0jmw-UnztULhhX9_GTnNx_JypEfRUOe07Cmiy5RovWdombNpNjDgXqOLGsfr3ebf42GCzvvv9mgDCJupEGN2BfPWB07rMXH1PWyeHsOmXJDQ-oAMnohCrulGckI/s320/20160919_073729.jpg" width="320" /></a></span></span></p>max monterohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16217644456257635987noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3838050795464426329.post-27356193850121658792021-04-30T11:19:00.007+10:002021-04-30T15:06:01.481+10:00Philippine Navy interested in acquiring another Hamilton-class cutter as stop gap measure<div><a href="https://www.facebook.com/MaxDefense/posts/1503034583200527"><span style="color: #2b00fe;">Back in March 2021, we mentioned in one of our social media posts</span></a> that the Philippine Navy is was offered by the US to transfer ships and boats as part of its Military Assistance to the Philippines. </div><div><br /></div><div>These offers were among those said to be listed in the US document sent to the Philippine Ambassador to the US Babes Romualdez, which in turn was sent to President Rodrigo Duterte as proof of US commitment to assist the improvement of the Philippines’ defense capabilities.</div><div><br /></div><div>We previously said that we would not provide further details as requested by sources, but <a href="http://maxdefense.blogspot.com/2021/04/additional-cyclone-class-littoral.html"><span style="color: #2b00fe;">we confirmed in our blog entry released last 05 April 2021</span></a> that the Philippine Navy has been offered the <i>Cyclone</i>-class large patrol boats of the US Navy, some of which were already decommissioned by the US Navy recently.</div><div><br /></div><div><a href="https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1136252"><span style="color: #2b00fe;">This was later on confirmed by the Philippine Navy’s Flag Officer in Command, Vice Adm. Giovanni Bacordo</span></a>.</div><div><br /></div><div>But so far, we have not confirmed the “ships” portion of the offer. These <i>Cyclone</i>-class are covered by the “boats” offer.</div><div><br /></div><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhgx69SNvoVbt0EhwwZtifSjMF7gwxpxeVVpBt_IkyHzKxBEN8RZS1F_cSMdo-zsDOCSPl8QuXfrzeMruFnLOrogO_-2NCkKwpnhibStPKjyUpBpvRDn53AQ7127rBgw2NP4C71bFLjmew/s1599/received_254985129658702.jpeg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1066" data-original-width="1599" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhgx69SNvoVbt0EhwwZtifSjMF7gwxpxeVVpBt_IkyHzKxBEN8RZS1F_cSMdo-zsDOCSPl8QuXfrzeMruFnLOrogO_-2NCkKwpnhibStPKjyUpBpvRDn53AQ7127rBgw2NP4C71bFLjmew/w640-h426/received_254985129658702.jpeg" width="640" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Photo credits to Wikipedia.</td></tr></tbody></table><div><br /></div><div><div><b><u><span style="color: red;">Ship on offer to the Philippine Navy:</span></u></b></div><div><br /></div><div>With the Philippine Navy announcing its intent to acquire the <i>Cyclone</i>-class patrol boats, it would be also worth noting that the service actually has an impending scheduled Joint Visual Inspection (JVI) of a larger ship in the US mainland, with the invitation released as early as 2020.</div><div><br /></div><div>But the inspection was not conducted yet by the Philippine Navy Technical Working Group (TWG) due to the COVID-19 pandemic affecting both countries.</div><div><br /></div><div>The offer was actually for another <i>Hamilton</i>-class high endurance cutter of the US Coast Guard, the former USCGC <i>Mellon</i> (WHEC-717)</div><div><br /></div><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh_RvPHSZNNnJxm0aKQkeI8ZcsSiNf398wNkpT9kBGDCkPJ1D6X-8j0wamBpJfjQHnh5SWFvD95Mha8qscvXUgM4Xxaop4Pr_7aJ5Ps-K8oA1Lfyx5R-jaqlE4Cw3FHt5byyLAogdDRK4M/s2580/received_747171262621362.webp" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1219" data-original-width="2580" height="302" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh_RvPHSZNNnJxm0aKQkeI8ZcsSiNf398wNkpT9kBGDCkPJ1D6X-8j0wamBpJfjQHnh5SWFvD95Mha8qscvXUgM4Xxaop4Pr_7aJ5Ps-K8oA1Lfyx5R-jaqlE4Cw3FHt5byyLAogdDRK4M/w640-h302/received_747171262621362.webp" width="640" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The USCGC <i>Mellon</i> (WHEC-717). Photo credits to Wikipedia.</td></tr></tbody></table><div><br /></div><div>The former USCG <i>Mellon</i> is the sistership of the Philippine Navy’s three <i>Del Pila</i>r-class patrol frigates, and was decommissioned from the USCGC on 20 August 2020.</div><div><br /></div><div>It remains the only <i>Hamilton</i>-class ship still with the US government that has not been taken by a new enduser. Previously, it was believed that the ship was offered to the Royal Bahrain Naval Force, but it appears that even as early as 2019, the Bahraini government has already shown less interest in the ship.</div><div><br /></div><div><b><u><span style="color: red;">The USCGC <i>Mellon</i> (WHEC-717):</span></u></b></div><div><br /></div><div>The USCGC <i>Mellon</i> is the 3rd <i>Hamilton</i>-class high endurance cutter of the US Coast Guard, completed in February 1967, and commissioned with the US Coast Guard on January 1968.</div></div><div><br /></div><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjWXxkVq68pYorxrWltgDJ110wkqmPEGbfieab3e-D7k2yqIJAcMrXJ_Tkbtl2hGdRmpb-KqT8mGREkRtyzeTOmsCk7PXk5wolnWLT2jzhL6v-vmu0uW6ur3i1L2hAuuTUZp3e_i2bcG-U/s960/received_321482716211798.jpeg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="602" data-original-width="960" height="402" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjWXxkVq68pYorxrWltgDJ110wkqmPEGbfieab3e-D7k2yqIJAcMrXJ_Tkbtl2hGdRmpb-KqT8mGREkRtyzeTOmsCk7PXk5wolnWLT2jzhL6v-vmu0uW6ur3i1L2hAuuTUZp3e_i2bcG-U/w640-h402/received_321482716211798.jpeg" width="640" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The USCGC <i>Mellon</i> (WHEC-717) firing a Harpoon anti-ship missile during exercises. Photo credits to Wikipedia.</td></tr></tbody></table><div><br /></div><div><div>While it is true that the ship is already old at more than 50 years old, the Philippine Navy itself can attest the capabilities of the ship, with the type remaining as one of the fleet’s most capable ships despite the arrival of new frigates lately.</div><div><br /></div><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg-zhxzfENI3KhDpTuJfdPhorOmG4FUiQ3-7TgpyYATRVWNOF_qYCp7P1ZzdwWamV-RLw1zo4VKqKDQLo9CzbIkVcK4Z-F876Ah0MI4VZczh9B3O27zghTpgyJi2X7lAKqY8I5qPKTDlOc/s1171/received_470666084048020.jpeg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="914" data-original-width="1171" height="500" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg-zhxzfENI3KhDpTuJfdPhorOmG4FUiQ3-7TgpyYATRVWNOF_qYCp7P1ZzdwWamV-RLw1zo4VKqKDQLo9CzbIkVcK4Z-F876Ah0MI4VZczh9B3O27zghTpgyJi2X7lAKqY8I5qPKTDlOc/w640-h500/received_470666084048020.jpeg" width="640" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The USCGC <i>Mellon</i> showing its high sea state capability as it overcomes a swell. Photo credits to original source.</td></tr></tbody></table><br /><div>The Philippine Navy requested for a 4th <i>Hamilton</i>-class ship as early as late 2018, after realizing that the BRP <i>Gregorio del Pilar </i>(PS-15) will only be ready for service by 2020 after damaging its propellers and propeller shaft assembly in an accident in the West Philippine Sea.</div><div><br /></div><div>The US made an official offer to the Philippines by 2019, although an invitation was only made to inspect the ship in 2020.</div><div><br /></div><div>Being an existing operator of the ship class since 2011, it was only logical for the Philippine Navy to take in another ship of the class, which could benefit from the service’s existing supply and maintenance chain for the ships.</div><div><br /></div><div><b><u><span style="color: red;">Stop Gap Measure:</span></u></b></div><div> </div><div>The Philippine Navy believes that the ship would still be good to use for another 10 years, long enough for the service to be able to obtain a replacement for it as part of its Capability Upgrade Program (CUP).</div><div><br /></div><div>This means the former USCGC <i>Mellon</i> would only serve as a stop-gap measure while the Philippine Navy tries to build up its fleet after decommissioning World War 2-era ships and delays in its Horizon 2 acquisition plans.</div><div><br /></div><div>It is also noted that the addition of the former USCGC <i>Mellon</i> would help the Philippine Navy sustain naval operations while its sisterships undergo the Del Pilar-class Upgrade Project which is slated to start later this year.</div><div><br /></div><div>It should be noted that BRP <i>Gregorio del Pilar</i> (PS-15) and BRP <i>Andres Bonifacio</i> (PS-17) are both in dry dock for different reasons, thus affecting fleet availability.</div></div><div><br /></div><div>In the longer term and if the Philippine Navy decides to retain the ship despite new ships already available, the platform becomes a force multiplier for the service, as it can still conduct patrol missions or even be used for training purposes similar to how other navies make use of older ships for training cadets and new seamen.</div><div><br /></div><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhK8wNn4vQiTS6g3gLDrrzBlBW-dL5X2Z3NdPUR-eFjkdt6wX6sRtwNaZmy8NqjPYawsosi25Cqb4GrfyBTdTMv_wy3mBaWxYNgTDfwEqk_I6sp8SHJFbPlGHVPvIReiH8asOhm1yWiZvc/s1643/received_164055828969295.jpeg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1172" data-original-width="1643" height="456" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhK8wNn4vQiTS6g3gLDrrzBlBW-dL5X2Z3NdPUR-eFjkdt6wX6sRtwNaZmy8NqjPYawsosi25Cqb4GrfyBTdTMv_wy3mBaWxYNgTDfwEqk_I6sp8SHJFbPlGHVPvIReiH8asOhm1yWiZvc/w640-h456/received_164055828969295.jpeg" width="640" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">BRP <i>Andres Bonifacio</i> (L) and BRP <i>Gregorio del Pilar</i> (R) on drydock for repairs and maintenance works. Photo credits to community member sharing to MaxDefense PH.</td></tr></tbody></table><br /><div><b><u><span style="color: red;">Why Old Hamilton-class ships again?:</span></u></b></div><div><div><br /></div><div>To those asking, so why not get something much younger, much modern warships like the <i>Oliver Hazard Perry</i>-class or the Littoral Combat Ships (LCS), rather than old <i>Hamilton</i>-class ships with not much firepower and combat capability?</div><div><br /></div><div>First of, the US has been offering the <i>Oliver Hazard Perry</i>-class frigates to the Philippine Navy for more than 20 years now since the late 1990s, with MaxDefense PH even reporting that the US made its offer again during the RIMPAC 2020 exercises in Hawaii. </div><div><br /></div><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhN7g7wwhsmVJmb4CvxbOSWzlGxG2e1nP9z1UU7gnRXM-WT3T7OsQ5YIo33JpPWOe3QHUkUTCyk8BfbYWponsl543YKiz3tZ-iFM3H-yamFqh-0HqCTqy0FWCRKfX_4U_G5TFKGLEyYM4s/s2048/received_1842627312553782.jpeg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1135" data-original-width="2048" height="355" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhN7g7wwhsmVJmb4CvxbOSWzlGxG2e1nP9z1UU7gnRXM-WT3T7OsQ5YIo33JpPWOe3QHUkUTCyk8BfbYWponsl543YKiz3tZ-iFM3H-yamFqh-0HqCTqy0FWCRKfX_4U_G5TFKGLEyYM4s/w640-h355/received_1842627312553782.jpeg" width="640" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">USCGC <i>Mellon</i> (WHEC-717) with <i>Oliver Hazard Perry</i>-class frigate USS <i>Robert G. Bradley</i> (FFG-49) during an exercise in Indonesia in 2010. Photo credits to DVIDS.<br /></td></tr></tbody></table><div><br /></div><div>But it appears that the Philippine Navy is uninterested in the ships due to its lack of a diesel engine and its utilization of gas turbine engines which are most costly to operate than diesel engine-powered ships.</div><div><br /></div><div>In short, it was PN's decision to skip on <i>Oliver Hazard Perry</i>-class frigates.</div><div><br /></div><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgel3dvcyXOIDagJsY7Pt1zaIvmS4BVZz766VUBMqAy28Rga2xncGgGoN9O3tYwvYPMuzAXXK1wwZXf3rVXfXke9W3ssR63SU25VbrKzwBqDmhWz54Gs3roT1z5XBLpo9ysHVGaSV1fCTY/s1024/received_167294095280318.jpeg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="683" data-original-width="1024" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgel3dvcyXOIDagJsY7Pt1zaIvmS4BVZz766VUBMqAy28Rga2xncGgGoN9O3tYwvYPMuzAXXK1wwZXf3rVXfXke9W3ssR63SU25VbrKzwBqDmhWz54Gs3roT1z5XBLpo9ysHVGaSV1fCTY/w640-h426/received_167294095280318.jpeg" width="640" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">A GE LM2500 marine gas turbine engine. Despite the PN having this type of engine, ships without diesel engines remain as the PN's "kryptonite" up to this day. Photo credits to original source.</td></tr></tbody></table><br /><div>Secondly, while the US Navy is planning to retire the first batches of the <i>Freedom</i>-class and <i>Independence</i>-class Littoral Combat Ships, it has not done so yet.</div><div><br /></div><div>Also, there are fears from the Philippine Navy leaders and planners that they would cost a lot not just to acquire (despite expected to be offer for cheap), but could be expensive to sustain and maintain due to its complicated systems.</div></div><div><br /></div><div>But based on previous information we received from sources, the Philippine Navy is indeed expected to receive an offer for either of the LCS classes under US Foreign Military Sales (FMS) of Excess Defense Articles.</div><div><br /></div><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh7wUbqVRwpNFmoF_UQsJyJFDe8jovStruKovUuqT7PW1g6dDB7-fS-cofGlbwbnYEdBZs4ZEJerUcKoZP-P1vpBqX2yu33lhOnEKPt_JjRrf3N4h_KDk_4xVTYKF36BZfjBC4Gamhdcm0/s1900/received_148854623849468.jpeg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1426" data-original-width="1900" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh7wUbqVRwpNFmoF_UQsJyJFDe8jovStruKovUuqT7PW1g6dDB7-fS-cofGlbwbnYEdBZs4ZEJerUcKoZP-P1vpBqX2yu33lhOnEKPt_JjRrf3N4h_KDk_4xVTYKF36BZfjBC4Gamhdcm0/w640-h480/received_148854623849468.jpeg" width="640" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The <i>Freedom</i>-class LCS. Photo credits to Wikipedia.</td></tr></tbody></table><div><br /></div><div><div><b><u><span style="color: red;"><i>Cyclone</i>-class littoral patrol vessels:</span></u></b></div><div><br /></div><div>In the meantime, the Philippine Navy appears to be gunning to acquire several <i>Cyclone</i>-class littoral patrol vessels from the US Navy, with PN FOIC Vice Adm. Bacordo even confirming that there is an outstanding offer from the US government under its Excess Defense Article (EDA) program, and that they are waiting for the official approval from the State Department on the authority to transfer the ships to the Philippines.</div><div><br /></div><div>Also being waited are the approval on the PN’s request for Price & Availability (P&A) which would allow the PN to prepare for the planning and programming of the acquisition, including preparing the costs for its transfer.</div><div><br /></div><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjO3fYGqYS0gO86vLV3oDckrMze_Y7SilLFnXBjPQbAS5NdiWYkZgmjYcxtIIYU9daqTrb7TjrULBtXx8C6qwnPAvMC-CO0jVyqSAf5hLAy8OIcnKUQf2Jj6JMHscrCkqdBC6YRu6XDzAA/s2048/received_457819415301894.jpeg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1362" data-original-width="2048" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjO3fYGqYS0gO86vLV3oDckrMze_Y7SilLFnXBjPQbAS5NdiWYkZgmjYcxtIIYU9daqTrb7TjrULBtXx8C6qwnPAvMC-CO0jVyqSAf5hLAy8OIcnKUQf2Jj6JMHscrCkqdBC6YRu6XDzAA/w640-h426/received_457819415301894.jpeg" width="640" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i>Cyclone</i>-class littoral patrol vessels of the US Navy. Photo credits to Wikipedia.</td></tr></tbody></table><br /><div>The FOIC has mentioned at least twice that the PN wanted to get at least 5 units, which will allow them to have a total of 6 including the BRP <i>Gen. Mariano Alvarez</i> (PS-38) already with them since 2004. </div><div><br /></div><div>But there is also possibility that the PN may get more, but that would depend on the avaiaibility of ships for transfer from the US government, as well as results of inspections that make it acceptable for the PN to receive them, as well as financial capability of the Philippine government to pay for them.</div></div><div><br /></div><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjuTGps9FqlHbAFjv59ZaGaZC08tlvbO2VgLKrSWlUSFCGu5ffB28tcRO9MTmkcBpz3XXlT6kL2B-tpiSIZVsh2XIcSqN9uaxsgxRhcnUxWxcujW8KMVXV0AUkI9KEzLWVVZnOTpMzZSK8/s960/received_309032047490901.jpeg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="640" data-original-width="960" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjuTGps9FqlHbAFjv59ZaGaZC08tlvbO2VgLKrSWlUSFCGu5ffB28tcRO9MTmkcBpz3XXlT6kL2B-tpiSIZVsh2XIcSqN9uaxsgxRhcnUxWxcujW8KMVXV0AUkI9KEzLWVVZnOTpMzZSK8/w640-h426/received_309032047490901.jpeg" width="640" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The Philippine Navy's sole <i>Cyclone</i>-class patrol vessel BRP <i>Gen. Mariano Alvarez</i>. Photo credits to Peter @ Flickr.</td></tr></tbody></table><br /><div>The acquisition of these additional ships would also allow the Philippine Navy to bridge the gap left by retiring older littoral patrol ships like the <i>Gen. Emilio Aguinaldo</i>-class, and also allow them to retire old remaining ships like the <i>Kagitingan</i>-class.</div><div><br /></div><div>=========================</div><div><br /></div><div>In the end, while the Philippine Navy goes for old ships again, they are replacing much older ships that were retired or in need for immediate retirement. </div><div><br /></div><div>Also, these are only stop gap measures considering the PN already has a program to acquire new combat and patrol vessels as part of their modernization efforts.</div><div><br /></div><div>These old ships may stay with the PN fleet beyond the arrival of new ships, but that is not something bad especially if the PN can afford their sustainment.</div><div><br /></div><div><div><span style="font-family: arial;"><span>===============<br /><span>===============</span><br /><span>First release: 30 April 2021<br /></span></span><span>Copyright MaxDefense Philippines<br /><div><span style="clear: left; display: inline; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiYWXCNgEKjy9PvhyXm0jmw-UnztULhhX9_GTnNx_JypEfRUOe07Cmiy5RovWdombNpNjDgXqOLGsfr3ebf42GCzvvv9mgDCJupEGN2BfPWB07rMXH1PWyeHsOmXJDQ-oAMnohCrulGckI/s1600/20160919_073729.jpg" style="clear: left; display: inline; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="227" data-original-width="961" height="75" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiYWXCNgEKjy9PvhyXm0jmw-UnztULhhX9_GTnNx_JypEfRUOe07Cmiy5RovWdombNpNjDgXqOLGsfr3ebf42GCzvvv9mgDCJupEGN2BfPWB07rMXH1PWyeHsOmXJDQ-oAMnohCrulGckI/s320/20160919_073729.jpg" width="320" /></a></span></div></span></span></div></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div>max monterohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16217644456257635987noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3838050795464426329.post-37392046045686117022021-04-20T19:37:00.002+10:002021-04-20T19:37:20.335+10:00Japan sends Lifesaving Equipment Systems as Official Development Assistance for the Philippine Army<p><span style="font-family: arial;"> <br />Japan is sending its goodwill to the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP), which is unprecedented considering the Japanese government only lifting the ban on transfer of defense equipment to foreign countries lately.<br /><br />The Japanese government has sent over 4 sets of Japan Self Defense Force (JSDF) Lifesaving Systems through Official Development Assistance (ODA) to the Philippine government.<br /><br />Apparently, this is the first time Japan is sending defense equipment to other countries through ODA, although the equipment being granted to the Philippines are more related to Search and Rescue (SAR) and Humanitarian Assistance and Disaster Relief (HADR) rather than warfighting.<br /><br />According to Japanese sources, the Philippine Army (PA) will be the recipient of these grants of Self-Defense Forces equipment.</span></p><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj7KVTFaZ0DONNqDPrIg8Gj2Z1ht3JV_CN4dNjUGPghj9j4NB66q4AvYUDeBhB7RzLG0Qz0clxDV7JafIT9ylNvIPX3AXgubMP_KUFl6kc12TQCBI7YB51ldTr-sUOd32hqtil3UqXGCD8/s2048/174001963_298547941713203_8428975408592931963_n.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><span style="font-family: arial;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1536" data-original-width="2048" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj7KVTFaZ0DONNqDPrIg8Gj2Z1ht3JV_CN4dNjUGPghj9j4NB66q4AvYUDeBhB7RzLG0Qz0clxDV7JafIT9ylNvIPX3AXgubMP_KUFl6kc12TQCBI7YB51ldTr-sUOd32hqtil3UqXGCD8/w640-h480/174001963_298547941713203_8428975408592931963_n.jpg" width="640" /></span></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: x-small;">The JSDF Lifesaving System Type I container shown here with a JGSDF truck towing it. Photo credits to <a href="https://mobile.twitter.com/objec1/status/1383767948100128778"><b><span style="color: #2b00fe;">Objec1's Twitter account</span></b></a>.</span></td></tr></tbody></table><span style="font-family: arial;"><br /></span><div><span style="font-family: arial;"><br /></span></div><div><b><span style="color: red; font-family: arial;"><u>The JSDF Lifesaving System Type I:</u></span></b></div><div><span style="font-family: arial;"><br /><a href="https://www.sankei.com/smp/politics/news/210418/plt2104180014-s1.html?fbclid=IwAR1CTkwcdj5HewT1PR_VY9P-5a92_QW3Mz-iNXKu6qRbCRAbuJIe05eYfLQ"><b><span style="color: #2b00fe;">According to Japanese reports</span></b></a>, the equipment being transferred to the Philippine Army are called JSDF Lifesaving System Type I. <br /><br />These comprise several equipment used in disaster response including motorized cutters, floodlights, jacks, acoustic sensors, rock drillers, lifeboats, and other equipment.<br /><br /></span></div><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjw30UQ-EIyq1QBYO9uWxXGWRTnX39gQkRlMGRMPC27JySR05cHASzAwjXRWIL54JE0jGz9g671DZdFd5ViXNaL6R7IM8knCqIirS-HkoBWw3ZsioSEwguGdvx1rEhPzwfHrIgAYvFjjq0/s6000/JGSDF_Lifesaving_System%2528container_trailer_unit%252C_72-4517%2529_left_rear_view_at_Camp_Shinodayama_April_16%252C_2017_01.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><span style="font-family: arial;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3376" data-original-width="6000" height="360" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjw30UQ-EIyq1QBYO9uWxXGWRTnX39gQkRlMGRMPC27JySR05cHASzAwjXRWIL54JE0jGz9g671DZdFd5ViXNaL6R7IM8knCqIirS-HkoBWw3ZsioSEwguGdvx1rEhPzwfHrIgAYvFjjq0/w640-h360/JGSDF_Lifesaving_System%2528container_trailer_unit%252C_72-4517%2529_left_rear_view_at_Camp_Shinodayama_April_16%252C_2017_01.jpg" width="640" /></span></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial;">A JSDF Lifesaving System shelter deployed. Photo credits to Wikipedia.</span></td></tr></tbody></table><div><span style="font-family: arial;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-family: arial;">The system can be transported by trucks or helicopters as the system is containerized for easy transport.<br /><br />These equipment could be used during search and rescue operations right after major disasters or catastrophes as it could help save lives and recover trapped victims, and transport them to safety.<br /><br />Four sets of the JSDF Lifesaveing System Type I were said to have been shipped to the Philippines starting last February 2021, and have arrived in the Philippines as of March 2021.<br /><br />MaxDefense Philippines is still trying to identify the totality of the system as it is difficult to find open-source information about JSDF equipment.</span></div><span style="font-family: arial;"><br /></span><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgBAg5P_UP7LFzqvf1gUh4LdDMMpJlDFNr5uzkyT0lDgdoZiAtOjgcsK1o6f7dO9Ls7HU5hO9CEtlDKL5iJh6s83oEF_wJnKOIDL5cRl_0MmPmrgCPaC-ZKdqsTf7pZgsCIoY1zovc7SQ4/s2048/7S6jOGX.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><span style="font-family: arial;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2048" data-original-width="1151" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgBAg5P_UP7LFzqvf1gUh4LdDMMpJlDFNr5uzkyT0lDgdoZiAtOjgcsK1o6f7dO9Ls7HU5hO9CEtlDKL5iJh6s83oEF_wJnKOIDL5cRl_0MmPmrgCPaC-ZKdqsTf7pZgsCIoY1zovc7SQ4/w360-h640/7S6jOGX.jpg" width="360" /></span></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial;">We expect the Lifesaving System Type I to include rescue equipment similar to those shown above. Photo of SAR equipment of Philippine Army from DRP Forum.</span></td></tr></tbody></table><span style="font-family: arial;"><br /></span><div><b><u><span style="color: red; font-family: arial;"><br /></span></u></b></div><div><span style="font-family: arial;"><b><u><span style="color: red;">Japan's Growing Interests to Assist Security Partners:<br /></span></u></b><br />It is expected that an official handover may happen during Japan's Golden Week holiday from 29 April to 05 May 2021, as Japanese Prime Minister Yoshihide Suga will visit the Philippines and meet President Rodrigo Duterte. It would be remembered that Prime Minister Suga replaced partymate and former Prime Minister Shinzo Abe, who is said to have close relations with Pres. Duterte, after he resigned due to illness.<br /><br />It is also expected that the meeting between Pres. Duterte and Prime Minister Suga would discuss security issues in the region including China's aggressive behavior in Indo-Pacific Region, and probably discuss Japan's role in countering this.<br /><br />The Official Development Assistance of JSDF to the Philippine government represents Japan's commitment to support for capacity building and contribution to improving the security capabilities of the Philippines. <br /><br />The value may not be huge, as it is said that the JSDF Lifesaving System Type I costs around JPY120 million, but these equipment are often overlooked by the AFP's acquisition programs that are focused more on kinetic and surveillance equipment.<br /><br />This assistance is also very timely as Japan tries to help like-minded countries and gain influence against a growing Chinese threat in the region.<br /><br />While unconfirmed, it is possible that this grant may also be related to the recent contract signed between the Philippines' Department of National Defense (DND) and Japan's Mitsubishi Electric Corp. (MELCO) with backing from the Japanese Ministry of Defense (MOD) for 4 air-defense radars for the Philippine Air Force (PAF).<br /><br /></span></div><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEimZE40Zbwfe-VsrcgzrwOD7E3h-E70zMlUHeXboNB-lfIWxVdIKrojwekLU0V6Hny6Css2r33NxD_Tr5I5b-vJQOBmdNnFJ-Cffs8qiigACnx-ykENyIFG163naSyQsFyFdq3_s2hWczM/s701/118352207_120664303083191_4516521856238900888_n.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><span style="font-family: arial;"><img border="0" data-original-height="701" data-original-width="526" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEimZE40Zbwfe-VsrcgzrwOD7E3h-E70zMlUHeXboNB-lfIWxVdIKrojwekLU0V6Hny6Css2r33NxD_Tr5I5b-vJQOBmdNnFJ-Cffs8qiigACnx-ykENyIFG163naSyQsFyFdq3_s2hWczM/w480-h640/118352207_120664303083191_4516521856238900888_n.jpg" width="480" /></span></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial;">PAF personnel in Japan to inspect the J/FPS-3ME fixed radar (top) and J/TPS-P14ME mobile radar (above) during technical inspections. Photo credits to DND.</span></td></tr></tbody></table><span style="font-family: arial;"><br /></span><div><span style="font-family: arial;"><b><u><span style="color: red;">More Japanese Grants to the AFP:<br /></span></u></b><br />MaxDefense Philippines expects Japan to provide more grants and defense assistance to the AFP, although this would be done more discreetly compared to grants from other security partners of the Philippines like the US, South Korea and Australia.<br /><br />We are expecting the Japan Air Self Defense Force (JASDF) to also provide communications equipment, electronic warfare training and information, and air defense training and doctrine development for the Philippine Air Force although we would not provide more information on this for security reasons.<br /><br />As part of the Air Surveillance Radar Phase 2 Acquisition Project of the PAF, we are also expecting Japan to have an <a href="http://alert5.com/2020/07/13/japan-to-consider-sharing-air-defense-radar-information-with-philippines-in-order-to-track-chinese-aircraft/"><b>arrangement for information sharing with the PAF for air defense radar tracking</b></a> especially in the shared boundaries between Japan and the Philippines were Chinese aircraft operate and use as access to the Western Pacific region.<br /><br />Some of the new Japanese-made radars are expected to be deployed in the Northern Philippines, right smack where Japan's blind spots are covered.</span></div><div><span style="font-family: arial;"><br /></span></div><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjFFL0huJuemIsGPnsWTZEAIXZ-iKf-KtH5aeSPg4i-zd6WqTQmxU33gMXkvBBv7snBPkZX9nUerj1fQ448yfR9r9VaVcRZOrcaPTBkXSvAGi2sHfOMiZ1mw7bRO3onGDQ8CgQgRDV6Q7M/s632/taiwan-manila-okinawa-map.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><span style="font-family: arial;"><img border="0" data-original-height="632" data-original-width="574" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjFFL0huJuemIsGPnsWTZEAIXZ-iKf-KtH5aeSPg4i-zd6WqTQmxU33gMXkvBBv7snBPkZX9nUerj1fQ448yfR9r9VaVcRZOrcaPTBkXSvAGi2sHfOMiZ1mw7bRO3onGDQ8CgQgRDV6Q7M/w582-h640/taiwan-manila-okinawa-map.jpg" width="582" /></span></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial;">Map above shows shared border between Japan, the Philippines and Taiwan, as Japanese islands as part of Okinawa Archipelago stretches close to the Batanes and Babuyan Islands of the Philippines. Japan is negotiating for air defense radar info sharing in this region to track Chinese aircraft movement. Credits to original source of map.</span></td></tr></tbody></table><div><span style="font-family: arial;"><br /><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-family: arial;">These are welcoming developments and signs of strengthening defense cooperation and relations between Japan and the Philippines to support common interests. Despite its past atrocities against the Philippines and other Asian countries, Japan has showed in the past 75 years that it can change for the better.</span></div><div><span style="font-family: arial;"><br />The grant for HADR equipment is something that would be very helpful especially for a disaster-riddled country like the Philippines. These are equally important items, and are expected to be even used more often compared to warfighting equipment.<br /><br /></span></div><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgo7O8pC0UiRl-aQ2GgjoO-FOyWRjKE3Q5HlJ5aQmntv4J9L_qExGvGy_8t4hCqkzG6iV3TWR5OEHl8Zqkp1_GDZeMiCFjgw1oTMPQTRtbpNvO94oGPGsbq44SBxEZeiMQkubh0OEPUglo/s1000/1000w_q95.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><span style="font-family: arial;"><img border="0" data-original-height="667" data-original-width="1000" height="428" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgo7O8pC0UiRl-aQ2GgjoO-FOyWRjKE3Q5HlJ5aQmntv4J9L_qExGvGy_8t4hCqkzG6iV3TWR5OEHl8Zqkp1_GDZeMiCFjgw1oTMPQTRtbpNvO94oGPGsbq44SBxEZeiMQkubh0OEPUglo/w640-h428/1000w_q95.jpg" width="640" /></span></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial;">JSDF personnel conducting HADR training with the US military in Japan. Photo credits to DVIDS.</span></td></tr></tbody></table><div><span style="font-family: arial;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-family: arial;"><span>===============<br /><span>===============</span><br /><span>First release: 20 April 2021<br /></span></span><span>Copyright MaxDefense Philippines<br /><div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiYWXCNgEKjy9PvhyXm0jmw-UnztULhhX9_GTnNx_JypEfRUOe07Cmiy5RovWdombNpNjDgXqOLGsfr3ebf42GCzvvv9mgDCJupEGN2BfPWB07rMXH1PWyeHsOmXJDQ-oAMnohCrulGckI/s1600/20160919_073729.jpg" style="clear: left; display: inline; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><span><img border="0" data-original-height="227" data-original-width="961" height="75" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiYWXCNgEKjy9PvhyXm0jmw-UnztULhhX9_GTnNx_JypEfRUOe07Cmiy5RovWdombNpNjDgXqOLGsfr3ebf42GCzvvv9mgDCJupEGN2BfPWB07rMXH1PWyeHsOmXJDQ-oAMnohCrulGckI/s320/20160919_073729.jpg" width="320" /></span></a></div></span></span></div><div><span style="font-family: arial;"><br /></span></div><div><br /></div>max monterohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16217644456257635987noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3838050795464426329.post-61266498698069249722021-04-05T09:43:00.004+10:002021-04-05T09:43:36.493+10:00Additional Cyclone-class littoral patrol vessels to bridge the gap with the Philippine Navy's Littoral Combat Force<p><span style="font-family: arial;"> The Philippine Navy (PN) has been moving away from older, less capable naval assets and has planned to acquire newer, more capable and better performing naval assets for the service to improve its overall capability, make use of new technology to improve its overall performance, while also trying to move away from obsolescence of equipment, technology, and doctrine.<br /><br />Lately, there is a reason for the Philippine Navy to start acquiring additional assets, especially when they can acquired for cheap and would actually be beneficial in maintaining and sustaining one of its most capable asset.<br /></span></p><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjYe3Q_RNbHFOn5k8M7onKCeEXnJjonaDG6GbWdDiDFImpy0OlojfgTUoGi18ERiKF4mqx2UeWuKd3_2leY5Dt9WAHTFDuLfh-yOxOgjUGrYVILmeTaq06fTLIhWjcPoTINXUnMidqMyrk/s1200/DDpQ__QXcAEv8Ua.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><span style="font-family: arial;"><img border="0" data-original-height="799" data-original-width="1200" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjYe3Q_RNbHFOn5k8M7onKCeEXnJjonaDG6GbWdDiDFImpy0OlojfgTUoGi18ERiKF4mqx2UeWuKd3_2leY5Dt9WAHTFDuLfh-yOxOgjUGrYVILmeTaq06fTLIhWjcPoTINXUnMidqMyrk/w640-h426/DDpQ__QXcAEv8Ua.jpg" width="640" /></span></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial;"><i>Cyclone</i>-class patrol vessels of the US Navy, 5 ships of the class seen here during maneuvers. Photo credits to US Navy through Naval Analyses website.</span></td></tr></tbody></table><p><b><u><span style="color: red; font-family: arial;"><br />Reduction of Fleet Numbers due to Retirement:</span></u></b></p><p><span style="font-family: arial;">In the past few months, the Philippine Navy's Littoral Combat Force (LCF) has eradicated several older classes of patrol crafts and patrol boats from its inventory in a bid to make way for newer equipment, while retraining its personnel in preparation of these upcoming assets.<br /><br />Among those recently removed from service were the Swift Mk. 3 and De Havilland 9209 patrol boats, both of which have been in service with the Philippine Navy since the 1970s. Also retired were the larger <i>Tomas Batilo</i>-class fast attack crafts, which were donated to the Philippine Navy from the early to late 1990s, but has been in service with the Republic of Korea Navy (ROKN) as the <i>Chamsuri</i>-class since the 1970s.<br /></span></p><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjHEFjuMrSerOFCOVNUCDOvJzF3Jt5ggLMVdflaemCdMWQ_yJL2tJvyJvzrivVGXc_k7uF4ZI9kJHVqBtYId1XxqIjDtLz4n6KnKtLLFkhZ8VE8mC4EqEfTbRJtDDX4DhfF45s23r9z_lM/s854/154702635_10158250333272956_1589277271982753606_n.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><span style="font-family: arial;"><img border="0" data-original-height="492" data-original-width="854" height="368" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjHEFjuMrSerOFCOVNUCDOvJzF3Jt5ggLMVdflaemCdMWQ_yJL2tJvyJvzrivVGXc_k7uF4ZI9kJHVqBtYId1XxqIjDtLz4n6KnKtLLFkhZ8VE8mC4EqEfTbRJtDDX4DhfF45s23r9z_lM/w640-h368/154702635_10158250333272956_1589277271982753606_n.jpg" width="640" /></span></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial;">Decommissioning ceremonies of the Philippine Navy's last two <i>Tomas Batilo</i>-class fast attack crafts (two rightmost boats) last 01 March 2021. Photo credits to the Philippine Navy.</span></td></tr></tbody></table><span style="font-family: arial;"><br /></span><p><span style="font-family: arial;">Prior to that, the Philippine Navy decommissioned its two <i>Gen. Emilio Aguinaldo</i>-class large patrol crafts, which performed poorly throughout its service despite only coming into service in the 1990s.<br /><br />MaxDefense PH previously questioned the move of the Philippine Navy to retire several of its assets without getting any immediate replacement for them. It would be remembered that no replacements have been made for the <i>Gen. Emilio Aguinaldo</i>-class, while replacements for the <i>Tomas Batilo</i>-class are still in the process of procurement and would only start arriving by late 2022.<br /><br />But recently, MaxDefense PH received confirmation from sources that a plan has been hatched for the acquisition of large patrol crafts to finally fill in for the loss of the two <i>Gen. Emilio Aguinaldo</i>-class patrol crafts.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial;"><b><u><span style="color: red;">The Plan - Acquire More Ships:<br /></span></u></b><br />As part of the Philippine Navy's Capability Upgrade Program under the Horizon 1 to 3 Modernization Phases, a requirement for at least 14 Littoral Patrol Interdiction Craft has been raised. Not much information has been made available, but curiously, a photo of a <i>Cyclone</i>-class inshore patrol vessel has been used to identify such requirement.</span></p><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEii3Agl3TVgcCFuMNa99Z8CZ4Sh0C8dkhPhGOtmRTeRExe5FeODB4U0x6EWpF_eeb6_7tAgOd7Kwp810jTGGmkbxRQplnMF1kt7jmj6E_4NECxnT9obztY_xhd_RrCPaQ4ANaDG4x6q81c/s949/PN+CUP+2016-04.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><span style="font-family: arial;"><img border="0" data-original-height="720" data-original-width="949" height="486" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEii3Agl3TVgcCFuMNa99Z8CZ4Sh0C8dkhPhGOtmRTeRExe5FeODB4U0x6EWpF_eeb6_7tAgOd7Kwp810jTGGmkbxRQplnMF1kt7jmj6E_4NECxnT9obztY_xhd_RrCPaQ4ANaDG4x6q81c/w640-h486/PN+CUP+2016-04.jpg" width="640" /></span></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial;">PN CUP shows 14 Littoral Patrol Interdiction Craft (LPIC) under the Littoral Combat Force's future needs. Photo credits to the Philippine Navy.</span></td></tr></tbody></table><span style="font-family: arial;"><br /></span><p><span style="font-family: arial;">Currently, the Philippine Navy operates a single <i>Cyclone</i>-class patrol vessel, named BRP <i>Gen. Mariano Alvarez</i> (PS-38), which has been with the Philippine Navy since 2004. It is currently the largest asset of the Littoral Combat Force, and has performed well during its service.<br /><br />This becomes even more apparent if compared to the Philippine Navy's other larger patrol crafts like the retired <i>Gen. Emilio Aguinaldo</i>-class, and the <i>Kagitingan</i>-class which are still in service.</span></p><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhWAFVV05U9qjvnMGdu7JSbY1neSRWalx-OQPyXeBQHpknYKH4VGJuem6T-jQmwg0fCBhRblSqGTT8wEjLbmDterswpvQTJyUa15_jBRMDWpXnsbE4NcmuJIWZSCtPqjMcVzQj3XPQ4HBw/s745/PG-140+2011.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><span style="font-family: arial;"><img border="0" data-original-height="496" data-original-width="745" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhWAFVV05U9qjvnMGdu7JSbY1neSRWalx-OQPyXeBQHpknYKH4VGJuem6T-jQmwg0fCBhRblSqGTT8wEjLbmDterswpvQTJyUa15_jBRMDWpXnsbE4NcmuJIWZSCtPqjMcVzQj3XPQ4HBw/w640-h426/PG-140+2011.jpg" width="640" /></span></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial;">The BRP <i>Gen. Emilio Aguinaldo</i> (PG-140), the lead ship of the class. The design was unsuccessful and the ships were retired earlier than planned. Photo credits to <a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/45182780@N04/6114039389"><b><span style="color: #2b00fe;">James Gabriel Verallo</span></b></a>.</span></td></tr></tbody></table><span style="font-family: arial;"><br /></span><p><span style="font-family: arial;">But despite this, the Philippine Navy has failed to bring in additional units from the United States, because the US Navy and US Coast Guard has found the ships very useful for littoral operations especially in the Persian Gulf and the Caribbean.<br /><br />In late 2019, <a href="https://newsinfo.inquirer.net/1188867/dnd-korean-shipbuilder-sign-mou-ahead-of-corvette-deal"><b><span style="color: #2b00fe;">then Philippine Navy Flag Officer in Command (FOIC) Vice Adm. Robert Empedrad announced plans for the potential retirement of the BRP <i>Gen. Mariano Alvarez </i>(PS-38)</span></b></a>, due to it being costly to maintain and operate. This is in part that its supply chain has been inefficient being the only ship of its class in service, and uses different parts from other PN assets.<br /><br />In fairness to Vice Adm. Empedrad (ret), he did say that this plan applies only if no additional ships of the class would be acquired by the Philippine Navy. Meaning, he is open to getting additional units if the chance is there.<br /></span></p><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjr8eaMJuWMADQMvzXdRiJJVw6FnJfSv0-Jl0HTPzKrzEh6VhMtjQ3YNanfrvpE1jjhTv2NwtMjk40JMQarUArnOvhZWAIOI7lrbTCn2wWxHSEuRlXEnuCdey2e2XOFFXSnehT8eT2kh3k/s537/28497d167f8c73708c92da28a63afb3a.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><span style="font-family: arial;"><img border="0" data-original-height="537" data-original-width="518" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjr8eaMJuWMADQMvzXdRiJJVw6FnJfSv0-Jl0HTPzKrzEh6VhMtjQ3YNanfrvpE1jjhTv2NwtMjk40JMQarUArnOvhZWAIOI7lrbTCn2wWxHSEuRlXEnuCdey2e2XOFFXSnehT8eT2kh3k/w618-h640/28497d167f8c73708c92da28a63afb3a.jpg" width="618" /></span></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial;">The BRP <i>Gen. Mariano Alvarez</i> (PS-38) seen here during exercises. Photo credits to Philippine Navy.</span></td></tr></tbody></table><span style="font-family: arial;"><br /></span><p><span style="font-family: arial;">MaxDefense PH was among those who disagreed with such plan since we believe it is better to keep the ship, improve and modernize it, and ask the United States government to allow the transfer of additional <i>Cyclone</i>-class ships to make the logistics train more logical and reasonable. This is considering the Philippine Navy is depleted of naval assets and has shrunk to its smallest ever size since its founding in the late 1940s.<br /><br />Now this appears to become a reality, as the US Navy has started to retire some of its <i>Cyclone</i>-class ships, starting with <a href="https://www.navy.mil/Press-Office/News-Stories/Article/2505585/patrol-coastal-ships-uss-shamal-uss-tornado-and-uss-zephyr-decommissioning-cere/"><b><span style="color: #2b00fe;">USS <i>Zephyr</i> (PC-8), USS <i>Shamal</i> (PC-13), and USS <i>Tornado</i> (PC-14) last February 2021</span></b></a>.<br /></span></p><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiuLOb7L1hnMwhDYK6EwnfbaDakCAmbCLfJNchBUTF7Mj7o88QmSRrthLVuwkJGFq9Or1mOXt1oTroPWUoo99oAkmnNJ9YNLnyzXeQSSQv3JqDO-fMVnB9SxiDxwQf7rYTez8gjXdo0aB0/s2048/210216-N-KY668-1037.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><span style="font-family: arial;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1387" data-original-width="2048" height="434" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiuLOb7L1hnMwhDYK6EwnfbaDakCAmbCLfJNchBUTF7Mj7o88QmSRrthLVuwkJGFq9Or1mOXt1oTroPWUoo99oAkmnNJ9YNLnyzXeQSSQv3JqDO-fMVnB9SxiDxwQf7rYTez8gjXdo0aB0/w640-h434/210216-N-KY668-1037.jpg" width="640" /></span></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial;">The USS <i>Shamal</i> (PC-13) seen during decommissioning ceremonies last February 2021. Photo credits to US Navy.</span></td></tr></tbody></table><span style="font-family: arial;"><br /></span><p><span style="font-family: arial;"><a href="https://news.usni.org/2021/02/18/navy-decommissions-3-cyclone-patrol-craft-looking-to-shelve-mark-vi-patrol-boat"><b><span style="color: #2b00fe;">The Pentagon announced that it will offer the former USS <i>Tornado</i> (PC-14) for sale or transfer to allies or friendly countries</span></b></a>. While the US earlier announced that it intends to scrap the former USS <i>Zephyr</i> and USS <i>Shamal</i>, this can change anytime depending on the situation.<br /><br /><b><u><span style="color: red;">Additional <i>Cyclone</i>-class littoral patrol vessels:</span></u></b></span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial;">The retirement of <i>Cyclone</i>-class littoral patrol vessels from the US Navy is a good sign for the Philippine Navy, as this opens a door for the service to acquire more units to join the BRP <i>Gen. Mariano Alvarez</i> (PS-38).<br /><br />And according to our Philippine and American sources, it appears that the former USS<i> Tornado</i> (PC-14) is eyed by the US government for sale or transfer to the Philippine Navy, being the most logical recipient due to its experience with operating the type. But that would be dependent on the agreement that would be reached by the Philippine and American governments.<br /><br />This is actually a complete turn-around from the 2019 plan of retiring the BRP Gen. Mariano Alvarez, and the Philippine Navy under the new leadership of its current FOIC Vice Adm. Giovanni Bacordo, is actually in line with what we believe is a better solution.<br /><br />Also, Philippine Navy sources confirmed that they are actually eyeing the potential acquisition of more <i>Cyclone</i>-class vessels, as a replacement for the retired <i>Gen. Emilio Aguinaldo</i>-class, and to also replace the <i>Kagitingan</i>-class which they intend to retire by 2021-2022 timeframe.</span></p><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgSc9TtZSWZV3Q0utSul2bGTRKFIDqFtNK4Zpzb7lyf-ryz_NoEwgoVgWLm_jF3Kr_Fqd1KKTtckGUJ64CM93spSKBt3I1u0nGGv6MMzYUkO3PMH7FiGEAljNJdMEv1c44kNnovaST3Y4k/s2048/158600460_1501812919989360_1202119649902666140_n.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><span style="font-family: arial;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1280" data-original-width="2048" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgSc9TtZSWZV3Q0utSul2bGTRKFIDqFtNK4Zpzb7lyf-ryz_NoEwgoVgWLm_jF3Kr_Fqd1KKTtckGUJ64CM93spSKBt3I1u0nGGv6MMzYUkO3PMH7FiGEAljNJdMEv1c44kNnovaST3Y4k/w640-h400/158600460_1501812919989360_1202119649902666140_n.jpg" width="640" /></span></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial;">The Littoral Combat Force's cover photo does not show the <i>Kagitingan</i>-class anymore, which confirms its planned retirement soon. Meanwhile, the <i>Cyclone</i>-class remains in the photo, despite previous plans to retire the ship. Photo credits to the Philippine Navy.</span></td></tr></tbody></table><span style="font-family: arial;"><br /></span><div><span style="font-family: arial;">If following a 1:1 replacement, that means the PN may need at least 3 <i>Cyclone</i>-class vessels.</span></div><div><span style="font-family: arial;"><br />But it appears that there are even plans within the Littoral Combat Force pushing for the acquisition of not just 3, but for more <i>Cyclone</i>-class patrol vessels, especially if these could be acquired from the US government as grants. This means the vessels are free, and the Philippine Navy would only need to spend for repair and refurbishing, training, delivery, and logistics support.<br /><br />It remains to been though if the former USS <i>Zephyr</i> and USS <i>Shamal</i> will be among those the Philippine Navy would be requesting for transfer. <br /><br />Several other Cyclone-class patrol vessels are scheduled for retirement from the US Navy soon, and this is where the Philippine Navy is expected to take a look at what can be possibly acquired based on the ship's overall condition.</span></div><div><span style="font-family: arial;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-family: arial;"><b><u><span style="color: red;">Why the <i>Cyclone</i>-class Patrol Vessel?:<br /></span></u></b><br />So why are we suggesting the acquisition of additional Cyclone-class littoral patrol vessels?<br /><br /><b><span style="color: #ffa400;">1. Readily Available</span></b> - the US Navy has started retiring these ships from service, and these can be acquired faster by the Philippine Navy, compared to ordering new ships. One has to consider the slow pace of starting an acquisition program, obtaining funds, procurement process, and construction - all of which may take at least 4-5 years.<br /><br /><b><span style="color: #ffa400;">2. Experience in Operating</span> - </b>the Philippine Navy already has one, with the Littoral Combat Force has been operating a Cyclone-class patrol vessel for more than 15 years, and it is practical for the Philippine Navy to have additional units to continue operating the type.<br /><br /><b><span style="color: #ffa400;">3. Cheap Acquisition Cost</span></b> - since the US government already has plans to assist the Philippines in its military upgrade program, the Cyclone-class appears to be available for transfer as military aid or grant, The PN will only need to pay for repairs and refurbishing, delivery and logistics support, which isn't too expensive.<br /><br /><b><span style="color: #ffa400;">4. Design</span></b> - despite being 20 years old, the Cyclone-class has design features that is futureproof. This includes the use of Mk. 38 25mm gun which can be upgraded to 30mm using remote weapon stations like the Mk. 38 Mod. 2 or Mod. 3 that are installed on the <i>Del Pilar</i>-class frigates, the quick entry/exit ramp for Rigid Hull Inflatable Boats without requiring cranes, and compatibility to short-range surface-to-surface and surface-to-air missiles.</span></div><div><span style="font-family: arial;"><br /></span></div><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi2lPCiUhu2dF8X9ZSZ6xkkhZDykvBnPFfb7z0qaEprhOJiw029vo0gc4rPTZSnBo4yjUNDWAw28xSgFpbrND_-XjaGpZ_WXsfn7GmGkt6ebIu06pMrmZOkfZs1nhds1ctChcqEbvfPinI/s2048/US_Navy_070307-N-0448N-077_Sailors_assigned_aboard_Cyclone-class_patrol_craft_USS_Firebolt_%2528PC_10%2529_reload_a_rigid_hull_inflatable_boat_%2528RHIB%2529_after_the_patrol_craft%2527s_boarding_team_visited_a_vessel_in_the_Persian_Gul.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><span style="font-family: arial;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1463" data-original-width="2048" height="458" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi2lPCiUhu2dF8X9ZSZ6xkkhZDykvBnPFfb7z0qaEprhOJiw029vo0gc4rPTZSnBo4yjUNDWAw28xSgFpbrND_-XjaGpZ_WXsfn7GmGkt6ebIu06pMrmZOkfZs1nhds1ctChcqEbvfPinI/w640-h458/US_Navy_070307-N-0448N-077_Sailors_assigned_aboard_Cyclone-class_patrol_craft_USS_Firebolt_%2528PC_10%2529_reload_a_rigid_hull_inflatable_boat_%2528RHIB%2529_after_the_patrol_craft%2527s_boarding_team_visited_a_vessel_in_the_Persian_Gul.jpg" width="640" /></span></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial;">The <i>Cyclone</i>-class' rear ramp for quick entry/exit of RHIB. Photo credits to US Navy through Wikipedia.</span></td></tr></tbody></table><span style="font-family: arial;"><br /></span><div><span style="font-family: arial;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-family: arial;"><span style="color: #ffa400;"><b>5. Size and Endurance</b></span> - the ship is large enough for long endurance patrols, without needing to return to port immediately. Sources confirmed that it can stay offshore for more than a week, with a range of more than 2,000 nautical miles at cruising speed.</span></div><div><span style="font-family: arial;"><br /><b><u><span style="color: red;">Bright Future for BRP <i>Gen. Mariano Alvarez</i> (PS-38):<br /></span></u></b><br />With these developments, it looks like the future of BRP <i>Gen. Mariano Alvarez</i> (PS-38) with the Philippine Navy looks positive, and the Littoral Combat Force might be able to start to beef up its force according to its requirements could be done without breaking the bank.<br /><br /></span></div><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj9tL-rrYpEiZunAzFWR9gFeBd1fSIp3dhrxbm6PIS21ZMAzHygci_KLOkbWVOJYP6QWCnPmg92RBpQt9OY0WiVFxlxOHrSc0xQnlC46X4dEuFocwv0LZg7CFAc4SRELQmoJcgzCBC0W8E/s960/8356470855_bab129a6c5_b.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><span style="font-family: arial;"><img border="0" data-original-height="640" data-original-width="960" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj9tL-rrYpEiZunAzFWR9gFeBd1fSIp3dhrxbm6PIS21ZMAzHygci_KLOkbWVOJYP6QWCnPmg92RBpQt9OY0WiVFxlxOHrSc0xQnlC46X4dEuFocwv0LZg7CFAc4SRELQmoJcgzCBC0W8E/w640-h426/8356470855_bab129a6c5_b.jpg" width="640" /></span></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial;">The BRP <i>Gen. Mariano Alvarez</i> (PS-38). Photo credits to <a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/94089980@N00/8356470855/in/photostream/"><b><span style="color: #2b00fe;">Peter</span></b></a>.</span></td></tr></tbody></table><span style="font-family: arial;"><br /></span><div><span style="font-family: arial;">Take note, this is just a short to medium term solution, while the Philippine Navy tries to get more funding to allow it to acquire newer ships. But until then, additional <i>Cyclone</i>-class patrol vessels would be helpful to allow the Philippine Navy conduct its mandated task of securing our waters.</span></div><div><span style="font-family: arial;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-family: arial;">Further problems may arise in the near future, as the ships become older and will eventually need replacement in the next 10-15 years. Among the issues MaxDefense PH sees will be on the engines, as its Paxman Valenta diesel engines are said to be getting more difficult to maintain. A re-engining program may be needed in the coming years if the PN fails to secure support for the engine model.<br /><br /><span>===============<br /><span>===============</span><br /><span>First release: 05 April 2021<br /></span></span><span>Copyright MaxDefense Philippines<br /><div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiYWXCNgEKjy9PvhyXm0jmw-UnztULhhX9_GTnNx_JypEfRUOe07Cmiy5RovWdombNpNjDgXqOLGsfr3ebf42GCzvvv9mgDCJupEGN2BfPWB07rMXH1PWyeHsOmXJDQ-oAMnohCrulGckI/s1600/20160919_073729.jpg" style="clear: left; display: inline; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><span><img border="0" data-original-height="227" data-original-width="961" height="75" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiYWXCNgEKjy9PvhyXm0jmw-UnztULhhX9_GTnNx_JypEfRUOe07Cmiy5RovWdombNpNjDgXqOLGsfr3ebf42GCzvvv9mgDCJupEGN2BfPWB07rMXH1PWyeHsOmXJDQ-oAMnohCrulGckI/s320/20160919_073729.jpg" width="320" /></span></a></div></span></span></div>max monterohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16217644456257635987noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3838050795464426329.post-74228647790335991382021-03-20T14:54:00.009+11:002021-03-20T15:52:56.696+11:00Is Philippine Army leaning on Thailand's Chaiseri First Win 2 MRAP for its Light Tactical Vehicle requirements?<p><span style="font-family: arial;"> <br /><br />The recent news regarding the <a href="https://www.facebook.com/MaxDefense/posts/1499702413533744"><b>signing of a Defense Industry Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) between the Philippines and Thailand</b></a> was an important milestone for the two neighbouring countries, as Thailand's local defense industry takes off and is looking for partnership with other countries to allow the export of its products, while also allowing potential joint ventures to improve its own technology and industrial capabilities.<br /><br />This is definitely good news for both countries, considering the Philippines is considered to be Thailand's closest friend in the region. Both countries are expected to gain from this Defense Industry MOU.<br /><br />It would be remembered that the Philippines is pushing hard to restart its Self Reliance Defense Posture (SRDP) program, which used to be the most advanced in Southeast Asia, but failed to take off due to the reduced investment in the Armed Forces of the Philippines over the years from the early 1980s up to 2013.<br /></span></p><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhyvmjWvdIUQ1xQO57-eedGPEKQXjF7Q0V2yL9PpDyDRSQs-eWqffoAetLtpyn49HDfI0ADZrqbeOct84-Yig5pU8sL5ehtG8dSlzXchx5kyxjniIWSxIEYWuZ4w9Qn3ZfNBVYv_LydbQ4/s716/D76C1843-5056-B73B-0D7331E870160D8C-supporting_image_1.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><span style="font-family: arial;"><img border="0" data-original-height="369" data-original-width="716" height="330" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhyvmjWvdIUQ1xQO57-eedGPEKQXjF7Q0V2yL9PpDyDRSQs-eWqffoAetLtpyn49HDfI0ADZrqbeOct84-Yig5pU8sL5ehtG8dSlzXchx5kyxjniIWSxIEYWuZ4w9Qn3ZfNBVYv_LydbQ4/w640-h330/D76C1843-5056-B73B-0D7331E870160D8C-supporting_image_1.jpg" width="640" /></span></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: x-small;">Thailand's Chaiseri First Win is among the Thai products offered to the Philippines. Photo credits to Chaiseri Defence. </span></td></tr></tbody></table><div><span style="font-family: arial;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-family: arial;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-family: arial;"><b><u><span style="color: red;">Benefits of Philippines-Thailand Defense Industry MOU:<br /></span></u></b><br />A Defense Industry MOU between Thailand and the Philippines allows a framework to be made to allow for a more complex agreement between the 2 countries. In the end, this would allow the 2 countries to engage in bilateral defense trade, joint research, development and production of defense equipment and technology.<br /><br />From our point of view, Thailand appears to be in a better position to take advantage in its agreement with the Philippines, being the one with a more advanced local defense industry and technology.<br /><br />It stands to gain by using its capabilities to sell its products to the Philippines, which is currently undertaking a defense modernization program that includes importing defense products that it cannot produce on its own.<br /><br />Thailand definitely wins in an agreement with the Philippines, as it means a higher chance of exporting its defense products to a country that needs them a lot.<br /><br />While at a disadvantage, the Philippines will also benefit as it could take advantage of Thailand's capabilities by using its current acquisition plans to get Thailand to share its knowledge and technology at a price.<br /><br />At a price means the Philippines paying for it as part of acquisition of Thai defense products and materiel. In these cases, technology transfer could be part of a contract to export products, and may even include a requirement for the seller to jointly produce some of the the products in the Philippines.<br /><br />Now that its clear that this agreement paves a way for a defense acquisition by the Philippines from Thailand, what is the Philippines probably after?<br /><br /><b><u><span style="color: red;">Thailand's Major Defense Products:</span></u></b><br /><br />Unlike the Philippines, Thailand has its own government agency overseeing the development of military and defense technology and products. <a href="https://www.facebook.com/dtithailand/?ref=page_internal"><b>Thailand's Defence Technology Institute (DTI)</b></a> is an agency under the Thai Ministry of Defence handling Thailand's own version of our SRDP. </span></div><div><span style="font-family: arial;"><br /></span></div><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEihT_rTIVQdU-j_wgHs6tQc4uFAg-Q1dLgC4J9j_tBTEBZ3p_lQtxWpqWZSkbbCDRC16o_p9Z5vlX2efa38CsT1xBizN1zc_RzD8ENCrRLLwmwXBKzAFD-CSVWlB419ntBbcPohuXHyETs/s1478/145593434_1801027040057288_6479068414595470371_o.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><span style="font-family: arial;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1108" data-original-width="1478" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEihT_rTIVQdU-j_wgHs6tQc4uFAg-Q1dLgC4J9j_tBTEBZ3p_lQtxWpqWZSkbbCDRC16o_p9Z5vlX2efa38CsT1xBizN1zc_RzD8ENCrRLLwmwXBKzAFD-CSVWlB419ntBbcPohuXHyETs/w640-h480/145593434_1801027040057288_6479068414595470371_o.jpg" width="640" /></span></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: x-small;">Thailand DTI's cover photo. Photo credits to DTI.</span></td></tr></tbody></table><span style="font-family: arial;"><br /></span><p><span style="font-family: arial;">While not the same as South Korea's Defense Acquisition Program Administration (DAPA) or Singapore's Defence Science and Technology Agency (DSTA) which have acquisition management oversight in addition to research and development, the Thai DTI is already a good start that the Philippines should have.<br /><br />Thailand's DTI does not directly handle development projects of local private companies, but it helps in pushing for their improvement and development as part of an overall scope covering the Thai defense industry.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial;">The Thai defense industry has quietly been moving forward in developing its own defense materiel and technology, at it also gained technology from transfer agreements it had with other countries.<br /><br />In the naval forefront, Thailand received technology to produce Offshore Patrol Vessels from UK's BAE Systems. This allowed Thailand to locally produce a derivative of the BAE Systems' River-class OPV, which is now called the Krabi-class in the Royal Thai Navy. It was already confirmed that <a href="http://www.bangkokdock.co.th:8080/2563/index.php/th/"><b>Bangkok Dock</b></a> and BAE Systems are jointly offering the Krabi-class design to the Philippine Navy for its Offshore Patrol Vessel requirements.<br /></span></p><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi6-dv6-O8k-e2f0k8bP0qR4wgcVI1OHPVL8ndxcUiQJlZ54n1MYikyq1i3_Qc9ujWr0ofLtCruJsYExGLYb6sC7nHXGtHyQhxn6Ft-tn3I-Y6ZwUXYlftEOt5CIzMLX2DyoAN0JFUWu3Q/s1920/552.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><span style="font-family: arial;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1080" data-original-width="1920" height="360" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi6-dv6-O8k-e2f0k8bP0qR4wgcVI1OHPVL8ndxcUiQJlZ54n1MYikyq1i3_Qc9ujWr0ofLtCruJsYExGLYb6sC7nHXGtHyQhxn6Ft-tn3I-Y6ZwUXYlftEOt5CIzMLX2DyoAN0JFUWu3Q/w640-h360/552.jpg" width="640" /></span></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: x-small;">The Krabi-class OPV is being offered to the Philippine Navy, competing with Australia's Austal for the OPV Acquisition Project. Photo credits to BAE Systems.</span></td></tr></tbody></table><span style="font-family: arial;"><br /></span><p><span style="font-family: arial;">Another company making waves in Thailand is <a href="http://www.marsun.th.com/products.php"><b>Marsun Public Company Limited</b></a>, which is engaged in designing and constructing boats and crafts for defense and security requirements. This includes assault boats similar to the Philippines' own Multi-Purpose Attack Craft (MPAC), patrol boats of different sizes, landing crafts, and other models. MaxDefense PH already received confirmation that Marsun plans to offer its products to the Philippine Navy, Philippine Coast Guard, and other security agencies.</span></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi9Irjquyc2qVBzxn7P5s8FmqA4bfG3CmaUCk74c-kehAq0k15fwmBb7eiNxKUeqSLuzFBqcSAg0xG2EU4Ej10Gmc6aIdI2NMPLjPEInMECP1EBJx-38cbkCcftFR3nnlAxBkJAxYHovTs/s800/4l-image-M36-Class-Patrol-Boat.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: arial;"><img border="0" data-original-height="600" data-original-width="800" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi9Irjquyc2qVBzxn7P5s8FmqA4bfG3CmaUCk74c-kehAq0k15fwmBb7eiNxKUeqSLuzFBqcSAg0xG2EU4Ej10Gmc6aIdI2NMPLjPEInMECP1EBJx-38cbkCcftFR3nnlAxBkJAxYHovTs/w640-h480/4l-image-M36-Class-Patrol-Boat.jpg" width="640" /></span></a></div><span style="font-family: arial;"><br /></span><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi4N1fib1cPblnTTJdLNwhFvh9ibwWHUCz8D6VB0vhhLJUZy9RilCjom4X0-XvMZr35e2vdS42IVAKTwq-WBnWqaMpqKQggD3ppEIXoc1uk9d6hxA4WUyIzZsz_7ysv7yWj9J1r7tRmmOI/s960/e0b8a3e0b8a5-e0b981e0b8abe0b8a5e0b8a1e0b8aae0b8b4e0b887e0b8abe0b98c-e0b897e0b894e0b8a5e0b8ade0b887e0b980e0b8a3e0b8b7e0b8ade0b884e0b8a3.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><span style="font-family: arial;"><img border="0" data-original-height="640" data-original-width="960" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi4N1fib1cPblnTTJdLNwhFvh9ibwWHUCz8D6VB0vhhLJUZy9RilCjom4X0-XvMZr35e2vdS42IVAKTwq-WBnWqaMpqKQggD3ppEIXoc1uk9d6hxA4WUyIzZsz_7ysv7yWj9J1r7tRmmOI/w640-h426/e0b8a3e0b8a5-e0b981e0b8abe0b8a5e0b8a1e0b8aae0b8b4e0b887e0b8abe0b98c-e0b897e0b894e0b8a5e0b8ade0b887e0b980e0b8a3e0b8b7e0b8ade0b884e0b8a3.jpg" width="640" /></span></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: x-small;">Marsun's M36 patrol boat (top) and M58 patrol gun boat (above) are just among their products that could be offered to the Philippine Navy. The M36 patrol boat is larger than the PN's <i>Jose Andrada</i>-class, while the M58 is slightly longer than the PN's <i>Cyclone</i>-class littoral patrol vessel.</span></td></tr></tbody></table><span style="font-family: arial;"><br /></span><p><span style="font-family: arial;">In the rocketry field, Thailand has benefited a lot from technology transfer from China, and recently it has signed agreements with Israel. <br /><br />DTI has been handling most of the development of rocketry programs and this is something that the Philippines' Department of National Defense, Department of Science and Technology (DOST) and the AFP could be interested in partnering with. This is considering the DOST and DND are sponsoring development of rocketry technology, which includes the program supervised by DOST Balik Scientist CDR. Leo Almazan USN (ret) featured previously in MaxDefense Philippines' Facebook page.<br /></span></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjXWJ7vdtqb4k7O0fZyaPj9AbIBOVLSEhaufXefQBXZ5kR9PyaaXpO2EQk87W7Xav_MxdZW1AikklE7bidrRfsw5_uOhzkVkXfXJX8fw0Pf34LDdIBOFlRNkXTP3cHZJUCjLL0LV8pqVTg/s1024/Q011805713082271425.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="768" data-original-width="1024" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjXWJ7vdtqb4k7O0fZyaPj9AbIBOVLSEhaufXefQBXZ5kR9PyaaXpO2EQk87W7Xav_MxdZW1AikklE7bidrRfsw5_uOhzkVkXfXJX8fw0Pf34LDdIBOFlRNkXTP3cHZJUCjLL0LV8pqVTg/w640-h480/Q011805713082271425.jpg" width="640" /></a><br /><br /></span></div><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjYtSPEX8QRokHwqztwMoZYn3jss_5isiJXzODDWReyo9BvsF3lhhnUNpSKmWqcRjN-NY8T_LvTD3Juxs2f69Uwri-1nKFCcYoh7isg2XCPduAxiOug-TpaNHxUAsqv0YMt2gdlZHLzHxI/s1680/DTI-2+122mm+%25E0%25B8%25AA%25E0%25B8%25B2%25E0%25B8%2598%25E0%25B8%25B4%25E0%25B8%2595%25E0%25B9%2580%25E0%25B8%25AB%25E0%25B8%25A5%25E0%25B9%2588%25E0%25B8%25B2%25E0%25B8%2597%25E0%25B8%25AB%25E0%25B8%25B2%25E0%25B8%25A3%25E0%25B8%259B%25E0%25B8%25B7%25E0%25B8%2599%25E0%25B9%2583%25E0%25B8%25AB%25E0%25B8%258D%25E0%25B9%2588+11+NOV+2020-3.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><span style="font-family: arial;"><img border="0" data-original-height="945" data-original-width="1680" height="360" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjYtSPEX8QRokHwqztwMoZYn3jss_5isiJXzODDWReyo9BvsF3lhhnUNpSKmWqcRjN-NY8T_LvTD3Juxs2f69Uwri-1nKFCcYoh7isg2XCPduAxiOug-TpaNHxUAsqv0YMt2gdlZHLzHxI/w640-h360/DTI-2+122mm+%25E0%25B8%25AA%25E0%25B8%25B2%25E0%25B8%2598%25E0%25B8%25B4%25E0%25B8%2595%25E0%25B9%2580%25E0%25B8%25AB%25E0%25B8%25A5%25E0%25B9%2588%25E0%25B8%25B2%25E0%25B8%2597%25E0%25B8%25AB%25E0%25B8%25B2%25E0%25B8%25A3%25E0%25B8%259B%25E0%25B8%25B7%25E0%25B8%2599%25E0%25B9%2583%25E0%25B8%25AB%25E0%25B8%258D%25E0%25B9%2588+11+NOV+2020-3.jpg" width="640" /></span></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: x-small;">The DTI-1 300mm rocket system (top) and the DTI-2 122mm multiple-launch rocket system (MLRS) (above), both developed by the Thai DTI. Photo credits to original sources.</span></td></tr></tbody></table><span style="font-family: arial;"><br /></span><div><span style="font-family: arial;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-family: arial;">In land defense systems development, Thailand has achieved much due to the active participation of private companies like Chaiseri Defence, which started as a repair company for armored and military vehicles. Chaiseri Defence is known for their First Win family of wheeled 4x4 armored vehicles, which includes the First Win and First Win 2 MRAP, the smaller First Win E light armored vehicle, and the First Win amphibious vehicle.<br /><br /></span></div><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEji8tWGSUZjIoi8X9ZZ7Uhhkhh85H8bQfd5jAWkPeZFF8w1N2rZcGwGAKkrdxAmbnCLC0AAv2IrofXlY7rCU7H4xYETsZUlcboIMvxeDImPloHpptWJz5gUw_MaLt5y9dReYLjVkJnIWrs/s2048/EKNkuMYXUAA-1Sa.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><span style="font-family: arial;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1152" data-original-width="2048" height="360" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEji8tWGSUZjIoi8X9ZZ7Uhhkhh85H8bQfd5jAWkPeZFF8w1N2rZcGwGAKkrdxAmbnCLC0AAv2IrofXlY7rCU7H4xYETsZUlcboIMvxeDImPloHpptWJz5gUw_MaLt5y9dReYLjVkJnIWrs/w640-h360/EKNkuMYXUAA-1Sa.jpg" width="640" /></span></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: x-small;">Chaiseri's stand at Defense and Security Thailand 2019 defense expo featuring the First Win family of armored vehicles. Photo credits to Lacroix Defence.</span></td></tr></tbody></table><span style="font-family: arial;"><br /></span><div><span style="font-family: arial;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-family: arial;">Another company, <a href="http://www.panus.co.th/en/aboutus">Panus</a>, is developing the R600 8x8 armored vehicle it intends to market to the Royal Thai Marine Corps and Royal Thai Army, and the Phantom 380X-1 wheeled armored vehicle.<br /><br />Also, DTI is developing its own armored vehicles including the Black Widow Spider 8x8 armored vehicle which is being pushed for the Royal Thai Army.</span></div><div><span style="font-family: arial;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-family: arial;">Of all the products featured above, the two most prominent that are being actively marketed to the Armed Forces of the Philippines and DND are the Krabi-class OPV from Bangkok Dock-BAE Systems, and the Chaiseri First Win armored vehicles.</span></div><div><span style="font-family: arial;"><br />MaxDefense Philippines sources from the DND and Philippine Navy did confirm that the Krabi-class OPV is indeed among those being considered for the Offshore Patrol Vessel Project, but at the moment, Australia's Austal OPV is said to be leading the pact due to its confirmed ability to build the vessels at their Balamban, Cebu shipyard.<br /><br />Even Defense Sec. Delfin Lorenzana, during the commissioning of BRP Antonio Luna (FF-151) last 19 March 2021, confirmed that Austal is currently leading the selection.<br /><br /><b><u><span style="color: red;">The Light Tactical Vehicle Acquisition Project:<br /></span></u></b><br />Which brings us to Chaiseri.<br /><br />Chaiseri is said to be among those leading in the selection for the Philippine Army's Light Tactical Vehicle Acquisition Project.<br /><br />The project, which aims to deliver new 4x4 wheeled armored vehicles with mine resistant ambush protected (MRAP) capabilities, is now being prioritized by the Philippine Army as it already awarded major projects like the Light Tank, Wheeled APC, and Self Propelled Howitzer projects.<br /><br />Based on the original submission made by the DND to Malacanang, at least 200 vehicles are eyed by the Philippine Army. These vehicles would be used for infantry transport and support, convoy escort, base and facility defense, and fire support on checkpoints and other emergency situations. This would also take out the Philippine Army's wheeled armored personnel carriers assigned for such duties and return them for mechanized missions.<br /><br />As indicated in the Technical Specifications of the LTV Acquisition Project which was not made available to the public due to the project being acquired through Government-to-Government (G2G) process rather than public bidding, the basic requirements are the following:<br /><br />* Crew Capacity: 11 crew and dismounts<br />* Engine: diesel with at least 300ps<br />* Drive Mode: 4x4 with Automatic Transmission<br />* Length: maximum of 6,250 meters<br />* Gross Weight: maximum 14 tons<br />* Ballistic Protection: STANAG 4569 Level 2<br />* Mine Protection: STANAG 4569 Level 2<br />* Main Weapon: 7.62mm GPMG on Manned Turret and RCWS (on some vehicles), option for 12.7mm heavy machine gun.<br /><br />MaxDefense Philippines won't be posting all other specifics as requested by sources.<br /><br />Aside from Chaiseri's First Win, MaxDefense Philippines was informed that other competitors for the project are companies from Israel, Turkey, South Korea, Ukraine, India and a few others.<br /><br /></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhsMe3Pp0fb5nOI8rHIPkzE5RMqvb7b5KrxcqbGV1hO7OaAUhZdE5UuioqncoPJ7pNhG1x5e6NxKyAUStdF7eroqXXZTSIt4uSNaz9XKVsZifnF30gDa7uJDN3JA_LYMt_kwoHIzIYfuX0/s700/promoter-vehicle.png" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: arial;"><img border="0" data-original-height="470" data-original-width="700" height="430" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhsMe3Pp0fb5nOI8rHIPkzE5RMqvb7b5KrxcqbGV1hO7OaAUhZdE5UuioqncoPJ7pNhG1x5e6NxKyAUStdF7eroqXXZTSIt4uSNaz9XKVsZifnF30gDa7uJDN3JA_LYMt_kwoHIzIYfuX0/w640-h430/promoter-vehicle.png" width="640" /></span></a></div><span style="font-family: arial;"><br /></span><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEggHLzVkYU_8ZlM8U6JH4wQFk6P4ztLsC00dC9bzG3GSi3TzzHXLNdXGPqgFuvRFy3-358Lx1JZz-bHkUpG5MhLm2s7A9gpTC8u-68SGUiToqxsUVq4va7-bnMDSbeA1H43Uw9eZIier94/s1000/maneuver_barracuda_slide_img_01.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><span style="font-family: arial;"><img border="0" data-original-height="492" data-original-width="1000" height="314" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEggHLzVkYU_8ZlM8U6JH4wQFk6P4ztLsC00dC9bzG3GSi3TzzHXLNdXGPqgFuvRFy3-358Lx1JZz-bHkUpG5MhLm2s7A9gpTC8u-68SGUiToqxsUVq4va7-bnMDSbeA1H43Uw9eZIier94/w640-h314/maneuver_barracuda_slide_img_01.jpg" width="640" /></span></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: x-small;">Both the Daeji DAPC-2 Promoter (top) and the Hanwha Barracuda (above) were said to have been offered by South Korea for the Philippine Army's LTV Acquisition Project. Photo credits to Daeji P&I and Hanwha Defense.</span></td></tr></tbody></table><span style="font-family: arial;"><br /></span><div><span style="font-family: arial;"><br /></span></div><div><u style="color: red; font-weight: bold;"><span style="font-family: arial;">But why Chaiseri First Win could be the preferred model?</span></u></div><div><span style="font-family: arial;"><br />1. The signing of the Defense Industry MOU is actually a clue on its own. <br /><br />So far, the Philippines already have similar agreements with Israel, Turkey and South Korea. Which means that selecting their offered light tactical vehicle / armored vehicle will not require a new agreement to be signed.<br /><br />And since the Krabi-class OPV is currently not the leading choice for the Philippine Navy's OPV requirement, it doesn't warrant the need for a rightly-timed signing of Defense Industry MOU.<br /><br />Meanwhile. the timing of the Defense Industry MOU between the Philippines and Thailand appears to be spot on with the planned push to select a winner for the LTV Acquisition Project.<br /><br /></span></div><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEidbfNLRehPu-P66yHZBly6cZctH_NjKBJCBI5_CfeaQCOQayKhjFVjVWZM1ayuZ8f2yypatjlXWexflfkf4FUYP2CYUeCuhejkyXYdbXMyfZw8eBqjCXBZIsu5rd_2qAJNsx-m184aFQA/s1379/product-gallery-1857-190731-DpKLm92F.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><span style="font-family: arial;"><img border="0" data-original-height="900" data-original-width="1379" height="418" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEidbfNLRehPu-P66yHZBly6cZctH_NjKBJCBI5_CfeaQCOQayKhjFVjVWZM1ayuZ8f2yypatjlXWexflfkf4FUYP2CYUeCuhejkyXYdbXMyfZw8eBqjCXBZIsu5rd_2qAJNsx-m184aFQA/w640-h418/product-gallery-1857-190731-DpKLm92F.jpg" width="640" /></span></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: x-small;">The Chaiseri First Win 2 MRAP. Photo credits to original source.</span></td></tr></tbody></table><span style="font-family: arial;"><br /></span><div><span style="font-family: arial;">2. Aside from that, some sources also confirmed that the Philippine Army is indeed interested in the First Win 2 4x4. The local company appointed by Chaiseri Defence to be its representative in the Philippines has been active in promoting the First Win not just to the Philippine Army, but also to the Philippine Marine Corps (PMC) and Philippine National Police Special Action Force (PNP-SAF).<br /><br /></span><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjVcv8jEIOmgpHl0GQqdypV1Pt2HxYXjieMgFof_2LWpEtfLyZApgOhfVnWmv3M5f_Cj7K4-SxZ2L8mGm9GDs0IYiso7Qr3WaqGwD4-ejEYXC3eJErlflUzFUQB4uEd7mgo994aeU0Mau0/s1000/75564661_10157965316234612_6432532253900800000_o.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="667" data-original-width="1000" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjVcv8jEIOmgpHl0GQqdypV1Pt2HxYXjieMgFof_2LWpEtfLyZApgOhfVnWmv3M5f_Cj7K4-SxZ2L8mGm9GDs0IYiso7Qr3WaqGwD4-ejEYXC3eJErlflUzFUQB4uEd7mgo994aeU0Mau0/w640-h426/75564661_10157965316234612_6432532253900800000_o.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: x-small;">Chaiseri Defense has developed an amphibious-capable version of the First Win, which can be used up to Sea State 2 and can cross rivers and streams without installing additional accessories. This could be a potential product for offer to the Philippine Marines. Photo credits to Thai Armed Force defense page.</span></td></tr></tbody></table><br /></div><div><span style="font-family: arial;">3. There was also a <a href="https://www.facebook.com/WassanaJournalist/posts/3372644672793967"><b>previous report from Thailand</b></a> wherein it was mentioned that the Thai government is nearing a G2G agreement with the Philippines to supply 200 units of First Win 2 wheeled armored vehicles. This obviously pertains to the Philippine Army's requirement which is also at 200 units.<br /><br /><b><u>These are the reasons why MaxDefense Philippines believes that the Philippine Army is leaning more on Chaiseri's First Win 2 for their LTV requirements.</u></b><br /><br />But since the Philippine Army's Technical Working Group for the Light Tactical Vehicle Acquisition Project has not finalized their selection, it remains to be seen of Chaiseri's lead could be maintained. As our sources confirmed, other companies are polishing their offers too.<br /><br />It remains to be seen what model will be finally selected, which MaxDefense Philippines would definitely discuss in a separate blog or in its Facebook page.<br /><br /><b><u><span style="color: red;">Chaiseri Defence in the Philippines:<br /></span></u></b><br />The Philippine Army's Light Tactical Vehicle Acquisition Project is not the first time Chaiseri Defence has tried to enter the Philippine market.<br /><br />Back in 2015, it was reported that Chaiseri's First Win 4x4 was selected for a requirement by the Clark International Airport Authority for airport security. This was later cancelled for still unknown reasons. This could have been Chaiseri's first First Win vehicles in left-hand drive variant.<br /><br />Another attempt was tried, this time with the PNP-SAF as they tendered for a total of 16 vehicles. Chaiseri offered the First Win, which lost to Stoone of David Corporation representing Gaia Automotive of Israel with its Gaia Amir 4x4. The vehicles are currently for delivery as of this writing.<br /><br />The LTV Acquisition Project of the Philippines is the third attempt by Chaiseri, and now it hopes to win the project, considering this is the biggest of the several attempts made with 200 vehicles up for grabs.<br /><br /><br /><b><u><span style="color: red;">What's Delaying the Project?<br /></span></u></b><br />With the selection phase ongoing, the next question is the availability of funding. Is money already there for at least the initial requirement of the project?<br /><br />The Philippine Army's Approved Budget of Contract (ABC) for the project is Php4 billion. 15% of that amount is Php600 million. This is probably the minimum amount the DND should have once it starts awarding the project to the winning manufacturer.<br /><br />But based on the FY2021 AFP Modernization Fund allocation as submitted by the DND to the Senate last year, no amount has been allocated for the Philippine Army LTV Acquisition Project. This means that, either it would be funded by Unappropriated Funds, or it would only be funded in the following year FY2022.<br /><br />If the later is the case, then we can't expect an awarding of the project to anyone within the year. Funding allocation is necessary as this would make sure that the Philippine government can afford to buy the armored vehicles.</span></div><div><span style="font-family: arial;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-family: arial;">x x x x x x x <br /><br />Until then, we could only watch what happens regarding this project. MaxDefense Philippines will continue monitoring the project, especially since 2021 could be an interesting year for this project as we expect other companies and countries to improve their offers while the DND has not signed a contract with anyone.</span></div><div><span style="font-family: arial;"><br /><br /><span><b><u><span style="color: red;">Project Summariy<br /></span></u></b><br /><span><span face=""arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif"><b><u>Light Tactical Vehicle Acquisition Project:</u></b></span><br /><span face=""arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif"><span face=""arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif"><b><u><br /></u></b><i>Note: Edited as of 20 March 2021.</i><br /><b><u><br /></u></b></span><span face=""arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif"><b>* End User:</b> Philippine Army (different frontline units)<br /><br />* <b>Quantity:</b> 200 units</span></span><br /><span face=""arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif"><b><br />* Modernization Phase:</b> Horizon 2 Phase of RAFPMP</span><br /><span face=""arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif"><span face=""arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif"><b><br />* Project ABC:</b> Php4,000,000,000.00</span><span face=""arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif"><br /><br />* </span><b>Acquisition Mode</b><span face=""arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif">: Government-to-Government (G2G) deal between Philippine DND and still undetermined country.<br /><br /></span></span><b>* Source of Funding:</b> Multi-Year Contractual Authority for still unspecified number of years, using General Appropriations Act (GAA) from still undetermined year.<br /><span face=""arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif"><b><br />* SARO Release/s: </b>TBA</span><br /><span face=""arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif"><b><br /></b><b>* Winning Proponent:</b><span face=""arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif"> TBA</span></span><br /><span face=""arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif"><br /><b>* Product for Delivery: </b>TBA</span><br /><span face=""arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif"><br /><b>* Contract Price:</b> TBA</span><br /><span face=""arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif"><b><br /></b><b>* MaxDefense Searching Hashtag:</b><span face=""arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif"> #PALTVAcquisition </span></span><br /><span face=""arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif"><span face=""arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif"><b><br /></b></span><span face=""arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif"><b>* Status:</b> Project pre-procurement process ongoing. Officially, the Philippine Army has no decision yet, although MaxDefense Philippines believes that a decision was already made but not announced.<br /></span></span><br /></span></span><span>===============<br /><span>===============</span><br /><span>First release: 20 March 2021<br /></span></span><span>Copyright MaxDefense Philippines<br /><div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiYWXCNgEKjy9PvhyXm0jmw-UnztULhhX9_GTnNx_JypEfRUOe07Cmiy5RovWdombNpNjDgXqOLGsfr3ebf42GCzvvv9mgDCJupEGN2BfPWB07rMXH1PWyeHsOmXJDQ-oAMnohCrulGckI/s1600/20160919_073729.jpg" style="clear: left; display: inline; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><span><img border="0" data-original-height="227" data-original-width="961" height="75" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiYWXCNgEKjy9PvhyXm0jmw-UnztULhhX9_GTnNx_JypEfRUOe07Cmiy5RovWdombNpNjDgXqOLGsfr3ebf42GCzvvv9mgDCJupEGN2BfPWB07rMXH1PWyeHsOmXJDQ-oAMnohCrulGckI/s320/20160919_073729.jpg" width="320" /></span></a></div></span></span></div>max monterohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16217644456257635987noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3838050795464426329.post-51046664995130770522021-02-14T00:35:00.006+11:002021-06-06T17:35:56.023+10:00How the Philippine Air Force plans to acquire additional Black Hawk helicopters to replace its ageing Huey fleet<p><span style="font-family: arial;"> <br />The recent announcement made by Malacañang on the approval to acquire 15 new combat utility helicopters based on the Sikorsky Black Hawk helicopter, as well as Defense Sec. Delfin Lorenzana's announcement that 32 helicopters were actually being pushed for acquisition, have been good news for the AFP Modernization Program.<br /><br />Both announcements were made in relation to the planned retirement of the Bell UH-1 Huey helicopter family of the Philippine Air Force, which has been in service since 1969 and needs to be replaced soon after being involved in several deadly accidents since July 2020.<br /><br />But questions arise on where the funds would be coming from considering there has been no allocation for additional combat utility helicopters under the FY2021 defense budget, as well as on what the project is really about.<br /><br />This blog entry discusses the Philippine Air Force's plans to acquire additional Black Hawk combat utility helicopters, including details about the project.<br /></span></p><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEggiNnVoaARLBAOSKqmIs9j2GXb4Aa4w4yssOggAeYUDo63ddFrlW9G8GCC9xZNsGxgFYAq41bciIbeX3bIjhlbK7uZpVnOSf2ZlB1lBExZ4MS4gf51qsPmelvF9mj0xOe7VQbsOUEYwWs/s2048/130267860_1337789843260406_2230687105315612939_o.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><span style="font-family: arial;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1536" data-original-width="2048" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEggiNnVoaARLBAOSKqmIs9j2GXb4Aa4w4yssOggAeYUDo63ddFrlW9G8GCC9xZNsGxgFYAq41bciIbeX3bIjhlbK7uZpVnOSf2ZlB1lBExZ4MS4gf51qsPmelvF9mj0xOe7VQbsOUEYwWs/w640-h480/130267860_1337789843260406_2230687105315612939_o.jpg" width="640" /></span></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: x-small;">PAF pilots and crew show their approval on the acquisition of S-70i Black Hawk combat utility helicopters. Photo credits to Frances Mangosing.</span></td></tr></tbody></table><span style="font-family: arial;"><br /></span><div><span style="font-family: arial;"><b><u><span style="color: red;">Dissecting the Plan to Acquire Additional Black Hawk Helicopters:<br /></span></u></b><br />Prior to the announcement made by Cabinet Sec. Karlo Nograles on Pres. Duterte's approval to acquire 15 new S-70i Black Hawk combat utility helicopters, the Philippine Air Force (PAF) was already in discussion with US defense giant Lockheed Martin on the supply of additional Sikorsky Black Hawk helicopters.<br /><br />This move was meant to get replacements for the ageing Bell UH-1D/H Huey which have been in service with the PAF since 1969.<br /><br /></span></div><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg2w_mXsLDMute7fA1-PP1mTjKPO55c5jia3yaVvipL2imMZXBOkEA28WhU2Aulo5zN5yJBJYXNNXUc3p5UCpReJRbsLAYct5oRELwz_9OvopQygf82DrxKpxFrKpyUlyzKPhC54bSLkS4/s880/125263169_10223588985613685_5801660830089041583_n.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><span style="font-family: arial;"><img border="0" data-original-height="498" data-original-width="880" height="362" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg2w_mXsLDMute7fA1-PP1mTjKPO55c5jia3yaVvipL2imMZXBOkEA28WhU2Aulo5zN5yJBJYXNNXUc3p5UCpReJRbsLAYct5oRELwz_9OvopQygf82DrxKpxFrKpyUlyzKPhC54bSLkS4/w640-h362/125263169_10223588985613685_5801660830089041583_n.jpg" width="640" /></span></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: x-small;">A mix fleet of Bell UH-1H and Bell 412EP combat utility helicopters during relief operations in Cagayan province this year. Photo credits to PAF.</span></td></tr></tbody></table><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial;"><br /></span></div><span style="font-family: arial;">It turns out that the US government has already made a proposal to supply more S-70i Black Hawks as early as 2020 when Lockheed Martin became more active in the Philippines due to its other proposals to the PAF including the F-16 Block 70 Viper fighter aircraft and the C-130J Super Hercules tactical transport aircraft, as well as the Sikorsky S-92 medium helicopter for the PAF and Philippine Navy, and S-70i Black Hawk for the Philippine Army.<br /><br />Defense Sec. Delfin Lorenzana mentioned in an interview lately that Pres. Duterte actually approved 32 additional Black Hawks and that they are planning to sign a contract with Sikorsky this year, although he did not give any timeframe on the plan. It is assumed though that it would happen between 2021 and 2022 since that is the only remaining time the Duterte administration is in power.<br /><br />32 helicopters also match the information received by MaxDefense Philippines from industry and PAF sources, citing documents from the PAF and Lockheed Martin's official offer.<br /><br />The question now are, why did Sec. Nograles say that only 15 helicopters were approved for acquisition, when Sec. Lorenzana claims it is actually 32 helicopters? Who has the correct information?<br /><br />It turns out, both cabinet members were correct. It just happen that Sec. Nograles' info was not complete, while Sec. Lorenzana's information was more general.<br /><br />Remember during the induction of the first 6 new S-70i Black Hawk combat utility helicopters last December 2020, Sec. Lorenzana mentioned that they have ways to fund another 16 helicopters, which he did not explain how or where it would be coming from.<br /><br /></span><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjD72kXEol-2_DOEd-mk-exnritzyE2W3oeyYdoK1hPdAofbUeW3V-nHrhvM_j-esyYxTC3_SYdw3P189xHW-vF9Qn7uyRhcKNNcc0OYmwKS_mu2ss1Gc2IeV66Mfh69cz8aF7JBgS1olc/s960/130304606_1067710500341429_1920403850465605152_n.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><span style="font-family: arial;"><img border="0" data-original-height="638" data-original-width="960" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjD72kXEol-2_DOEd-mk-exnritzyE2W3oeyYdoK1hPdAofbUeW3V-nHrhvM_j-esyYxTC3_SYdw3P189xHW-vF9Qn7uyRhcKNNcc0OYmwKS_mu2ss1Gc2IeV66Mfh69cz8aF7JBgS1olc/w640-h426/130304606_1067710500341429_1920403850465605152_n.jpg" width="640" /></span></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: x-small;">Defense Sec. Delfin Lorenzana with one of the PAF's new S-70i Black Hawk during their induction last December 2020. Photo credits to Sec. Delfin Lorenzana's Facebook page.</span></td></tr></tbody></table><span style="font-family: arial;"><br /></span><div><span style="font-family: arial;">The 15 helicopters Sec. Nograles mentioned in his recent press conference was actually a different batch from what Sec. Lorenzana was saying. Adding them together puts it at around 31-32 new helicopters in total.</span></div><div><span style="font-family: arial;"><br /><b><u><span style="color: red;">Funding Problem - Where is the Money?</span></u></b><br /></span><p><span style="font-family: arial;">We at MaxDefense Philippines have always been watching closely on funding of projects for the Armed Forces of the Philippines.<br /><br />And based on the approved Fiscal Year 2021 Defense Budget, there is nothing for the acquisition of even a single Combat Utility Helicopter.<br /></span></p><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiEaf-S0Qd4XGUgNCqwAEKsftMn_4kQpnjiRAD8hTZmmdM-wg6WKnYgtSWMfk-0PGLCUo_QA0HKTW9jOn514_BG_xSs0qEsmTCfFwDHZOZOdO_-1dyqyzF2Qck6cq4IN8br5y802zjFN-U/s693/Proposed+Program+for+2021+GAA+Defined.PNG" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><span style="font-family: arial;"><img border="0" data-original-height="665" data-original-width="693" height="612" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiEaf-S0Qd4XGUgNCqwAEKsftMn_4kQpnjiRAD8hTZmmdM-wg6WKnYgtSWMfk-0PGLCUo_QA0HKTW9jOn514_BG_xSs0qEsmTCfFwDHZOZOdO_-1dyqyzF2Qck6cq4IN8br5y802zjFN-U/w640-h612/Proposed+Program+for+2021+GAA+Defined.PNG" width="640" /></span></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: x-small;">So far, no budget for additional Black Hawks or combat utility helicopters for FY 2021 AFP Modernization Program. This version is the publicly-available one, although MaxDefense Philippines has a more detailed copy which we cannot post publicly. </span></td></tr></tbody></table><div><span style="font-family: arial;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-family: arial;">So where will the money be coming from to acquire the additional Black Hawks?</span></div><span style="font-family: arial;"><br />According to our sources from the DND, the 15 or so helicopters Sec. Nograles mentioned will be funded through the AFP Modernization Program Fund as part of Fiscal Year 2022 GAA allocation. But the DND is looking for ways to make funds available earlier, either through Unprogrammed Fundings or with assistance from Malacañang and DBM.<br /><br />Meanwhile, the 16 or so helicopters Sec. Lorenzana mentioned back in December 2020 will be coming in from a separate funding source.<br /><br />The DND was already in advanced stages with its Heavy Lift Helicopter Acquisition Project, which the DND selection already fixed with the Mil Mi-171 Hip, and plans to award the project to the Russian government soon considering the initial funding was already released by the Department of Budget and Management (DBM) back in November 2020. <br /><br />But according to our sources from the DND and PAF, the Philippine government has not overcome the problem on Countering America's Adversaries Through Sanctions Act (CAATSA) last year, or even up until this blog entry's writing. And the funds need to be used ASAP or it will be returned to the DBM.<br /><br />And because of this, the DND is planning to use the funding for the Mil Mi-171 acquisition to fund the acquisition of additional Black Hawk helicopters. It is highly possible that the DND would defer the Heavy Lift Helicopter Acquisition Project until the CAATSA issue especially transferring payment from the Philippines to Russia can be settled by both sides.</span><div><span style="font-family: arial;"><br /></span><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjFGSS6uhl0kkAP1wBeVUaHNAGix5hMH4YRGg00tQR0CjLMou93K2Cm4hFR-SNFvqLvAF2fmv5dpxVJjDAXuBQUPb-twZ04Pcb5-oH6A07MPfS-v-Qnsom00QElD2UFVkAwYFO3vnsZKoA/s1024/mi171.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><span style="font-family: arial;"><img border="0" data-original-height="683" data-original-width="1024" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjFGSS6uhl0kkAP1wBeVUaHNAGix5hMH4YRGg00tQR0CjLMou93K2Cm4hFR-SNFvqLvAF2fmv5dpxVJjDAXuBQUPb-twZ04Pcb5-oH6A07MPfS-v-Qnsom00QElD2UFVkAwYFO3vnsZKoA/w640-h426/mi171.jpg" width="640" /></span></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: x-small;">The acquisition of Russian-made Mil Mi-171 Hip medium helicopters are said to still have issues regarding CAATSA, especially with regards to funds transfer from the Philippines to Russia. Photo credits to Aviation Times.</span></td></tr></tbody></table><p><span style="font-family: arial;">In short, the Mil Mi-171 would be probably be sacrificed for now in favour of additional Black Hawks, although Russia might continue deliveries of the helicopters even without the Philippines paying them immediately.<br /><br />Based on the information we received from several sources, the DND could order less than 10 new Sikorsky S-70i Black Hawk combat utility helicopters through US Foreign Military Sales (US FMS) Program, including all necessary accessories, spares, training and logistics support.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial;">Apparently, Malacañang is keen to find ways to provide funding to increase the total to 16 units by adding more funds taken from other sources.<br /><br />This is the reason why Defense Sec. Lorenzana was hopeful that a contract may be signed this year.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial;"><b><span style="color: red;"><u>US Foreign Military Sales:<br /></u></span></b><br />Contrary to what most defense and mainstream press reported over the last month, the US government was said to have offered US-made Sikorsky S-70i Black Hawk helicopters, not Polish-built S-70i from Sikorsky's subsidiary PZL Mielec.<br /><br />The American-made S-70i are the basis of the current UH-60M Black Hawk delivered to the US Army, although it does not have the same subsystems installed by the Americans on their UH-60M.<br /></span></p><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgrvm0hmVzEmePM7phumj3SWslXEcX9QsdefsBGg7xXQrWcku5xmlVUZbzh-_nWAdCPn5E2O0WovTYuDEtaPV1jczsj9_Wd2t1W8lZrwtH8S6BE-dzL-6an5yAODBJcEXlzuM7RRM2uOW0/s2013/6131227.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><span style="font-family: arial;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1342" data-original-width="2013" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgrvm0hmVzEmePM7phumj3SWslXEcX9QsdefsBGg7xXQrWcku5xmlVUZbzh-_nWAdCPn5E2O0WovTYuDEtaPV1jczsj9_Wd2t1W8lZrwtH8S6BE-dzL-6an5yAODBJcEXlzuM7RRM2uOW0/w640-h426/6131227.jpg" width="640" /></span></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: x-small;">A US Army UH-60M Black Hawk. Photo credits to Defence Blog.</span></td></tr></tbody></table><div><span style="font-family: arial;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-family: arial;">This, as well as being a US FMS program, are the reasons why the current Black Hawk offering to the PAF are more expensive than the 16 S-70i ordered by the DND in 2019, which were made through Direct Commercial Sales (DCS) program.<br /><br />As discussed previously in MaxDefense articles and social media posts, US FMS are more comprehensive in nature as it is a deal sanctioned and involving the US Department of Defense itself. The US DOD makes sure that the helicopters would be well supported through its life cycle, and would include a compete support package as part of its package.<br /><br />This increases the unit cost of the helicopters as the Philippines is required to acquire more spare parts than usual, and would also pay for US DOD administrative charges for their involvement in the project.<br /><br />The current US FMS program offer for the Black Hawk helicopters were confirmed by DND and PAF sources to be a total of 32 helicopters, which is in line with Sec. Lorenzana's statements. We were asked not to mention the total cost of the offer as negotiations are still ongoing.<br /><br /><b><u><span style="color: red;">Why Go for More Expensive US FMS Program?<br /></span></u></b><br />So if the S-70i Black Hawk helicopters cost more under US FMS Program, why is the DND keen on going to that direction rather than doing another DCS Program with Sikorsky-PZL Mielec?<br /><br />According to DND and industry sources, Lockheed Martin is open to go through DCS Program with the next batch of Black Hawks, but the DND prefers to go with US FMS Program as the Philippine government's way of political manoeuvring with the new Biden administration.</span></div><span style="font-family: arial;"><br /></span><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg6Sz7wUossA8eY439nJXxrgTCcyrAC_4dBngpMZtsVRJzUa41pnjeQick5eTqTAN7vNYaOKZHnjz0RQHQNRAejkt3iYpRQOFlyf-4IVhSb1qA8zEI3FmZ7RV-eBLnJZYwbOsIvHFQPI8o/s625/ba89da940d7007f23944782354aced96.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><span style="font-family: arial;"><img border="0" data-original-height="363" data-original-width="625" height="370" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg6Sz7wUossA8eY439nJXxrgTCcyrAC_4dBngpMZtsVRJzUa41pnjeQick5eTqTAN7vNYaOKZHnjz0RQHQNRAejkt3iYpRQOFlyf-4IVhSb1qA8zEI3FmZ7RV-eBLnJZYwbOsIvHFQPI8o/w640-h370/ba89da940d7007f23944782354aced96.jpg" width="640" /></span></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: x-small;">The US was said to have offered US-made S-70i Black Hawks, similar baseline model to those used by the US Army's latest UH-60M Black Hawks.</span></td></tr></tbody></table><div><span style="font-family: arial;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-family: arial;"><br /></span></div><span style="font-family: arial;">It would also be remembered that the US has several FMS Program negotiations with the Philippines involving Lockheed Martin, including the C-130J Super Hercules and F-16 Block 70 Viper aircraft projects.<br /><br />But in addition, the Polish government has also been lobbying the acquisition of Polish-made S-70i Black Hawks which are said to remain the cheapest option should PAF decide to go with Black Hawks.<br /><br /><b><u><span style="color: red;">Other Helicopters Aside from Sikorsky Black Hawk:<br /></span></u></b><br />We also received confirmation that aside from Lockheed Martin - Sikorsky, other companies are still trying to get the Combat Utility Helicopter Acquisition Project.<br /><br />These include AgustaWestland (Leonardo) and Bell Helicopters.<br /><br />Just to update, AgustaWestland is now being represented by a different group in the Philippines. Its previous local representative was already replaced by Italy's Leonardo after several failures in its dealings in the Philippines involving the support of the AW109E and AW159 helicopters acquired by the Philippine Air Force and Philippine Navy.<br /><br />Leonardo promised to provide better sales and aftersales support to the Armed Forces of the Philippines with this move to have Leonardo's Southeast Asian office handle the Philippine market. But it appears that they are not promising to open facilities in the Philippines should the PAF decide to go with the AW139M.<br /><br />AgustaWestland is said to be offering the AW139M helicopter as an alternative to the S-70i Black Hawk. According to our sources, the AW139M is being offered for less the price of the American-made S-70i Black Hawk, but is a little more expensive than the Polish-made PZL Mielec S-70i.<br /><br /></span></div><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgCskA-BX5JtY_Qd5Y-xwqN0R1T33xCIlH6dww_qK8PE38Ag1TgNKAijVuYW27Z_26FW1T8UMlSJTNUF9FkEXYfwA5-9-ftAcMcHvVhDNFKcdfpglUJO-aRf9LhE_6pvavNpBXKjfuGC-4/s2048/Italian_Helicopter_HH139%252C_Trident_Juncture_15_%2528cropped%2529.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><span style="font-family: arial;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1162" data-original-width="2048" height="364" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgCskA-BX5JtY_Qd5Y-xwqN0R1T33xCIlH6dww_qK8PE38Ag1TgNKAijVuYW27Z_26FW1T8UMlSJTNUF9FkEXYfwA5-9-ftAcMcHvVhDNFKcdfpglUJO-aRf9LhE_6pvavNpBXKjfuGC-4/w640-h364/Italian_Helicopter_HH139%252C_Trident_Juncture_15_%2528cropped%2529.jpg" width="640" /></span></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: x-small;">The AgustaWestland AW139M from Italy's Leonardo. Photo credits to Wikipedia.</span></td></tr></tbody></table><span style="font-family: arial;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-family: arial;">The AW139 is also being offered to the PAF to meet its requirement for new "Command and Control" helicopters to replace its fleet of Bell 412HP and 412EP helicopters that are planned for conversion to Combat Utility Helicopters and transferred to the 250th Tactical Helicopter Wing.<br /><br />Meanwhile, Bell Helicopters is still offering their Bell 412 helicopter, this time using the latest Bell 412EPX variant. </span></div><div><span style="font-family: arial;"><br />To avoid the issues surrounding the involvement of the Canadian government like what happened in 2019, Bell Helicopters have offered to either go for US FMS Program as well with the US DOD being the middleman, or involving Subaru of Japan, which is Bell's partner in the development of the Bell 412EPX to meet the Japan Ground Defense Force's requirement under its UH-X program.<br /><br /></span><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEigFloLgEq39VxSVzl2ZgewF5x6z5KKP_gDm45yWPKxW_8iO37EFWb6eUrTkHpog_mSeCVdxx8GCmTsQpZm5DYzvqlRCo6CzZ-bP4eWcKsRZo9UYJu4jk8p50E6y4wxjY9z9txifNkzI2s/s1455/Subaru+Bell+412EPX.JPG" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><span style="font-family: arial;"><img border="0" data-original-height="813" data-original-width="1455" height="356" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEigFloLgEq39VxSVzl2ZgewF5x6z5KKP_gDm45yWPKxW_8iO37EFWb6eUrTkHpog_mSeCVdxx8GCmTsQpZm5DYzvqlRCo6CzZ-bP4eWcKsRZo9UYJu4jk8p50E6y4wxjY9z9txifNkzI2s/w640-h356/Subaru+Bell+412EPX.JPG" width="640" /></span></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: x-small;">The Subaru Bell 412EPX during demonstrations in Singapore. Photo credits to Sebastian Ng through V1 Images.</span></td></tr></tbody></table><p><span style="font-family: arial;"><br />The Bell 412EPX is said to cost less to procure, and also costs 40% less to operate than the S-70i Black Hawk due to its smaller airframe and smaller engine. The smaller airframe also allows it to be an alternative for missions that do not require larger-sized helicopters like the S-70i. <br /><br />Selecting the Bell 412EPX also allows the PAF to have 2 combat utility helicopter models which would allow the PAF to avoid grounding the entire fleet should an accident happen.</span></p><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhYkMWkczy2Zik3dlw0PRh5XuPqld_wzbygnYW9vOZvChfAyNVCrcpdgdkkofl5JV8WyMRd6_10M2PwCFnFw4RXdlCNyL-WTRIN4dw38yweLkasvN-JhfZlQbiQCe6YzHbHcQVcpYcP6ks/s1600/73766_1595946721.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><span style="font-family: arial;"><img border="0" data-original-height="919" data-original-width="1600" height="368" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhYkMWkczy2Zik3dlw0PRh5XuPqld_wzbygnYW9vOZvChfAyNVCrcpdgdkkofl5JV8WyMRd6_10M2PwCFnFw4RXdlCNyL-WTRIN4dw38yweLkasvN-JhfZlQbiQCe6YzHbHcQVcpYcP6ks/w640-h368/73766_1595946721.jpg" width="640" /></span></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: x-small;">The Bell 412EPX which will replace the Bell UH-1J Huey with the JGSDF under the UH-X Program. Photo credits to Andrei Shmatko through Jetphotos.net.</span></td></tr></tbody></table><span style="font-family: arial;"><br /></span><div><span style="font-family: arial;">The PAF already uses the Bell 412EP and 412HP, and is planning to consolidate all as Combat Utility Helicopters once the PAF's 250th Presidential Airlift Wing receive new helicopters.</span></div><p><span style="font-family: arial;"><span><b><u><span style="color: red;">More Helicopters is always Better:<br /></span></u></b><br />Whatever the decision is, MaxDefense Philippines welcomes plans to replace the UH-1 Huey helicopter as they are really in need of replacement. We hope that the Duterte administration would be serious in hastening the acquisition of new helicopters to allow the PAF to quickly have a replacement for its ageing Hueys.<br /><br />Personally, MaxDefense Philippines believe that a mix fleet of S-70i Black Hawks and smaller Bell 412EP/EPX would be a better combination as it would allow the PAF to have a mix fleet that could complement its requirements. This is since the PAF already has the Bell 412HP/EP in its fleet, and are not expected to be removed from service anytime soon.<br /><br />Should a Bell 412 or Sikorsky S-70i get involved in an accident, ground one model would not ground the PAF's entire CUH fleet.<br /><br />But it would be best if the DND and the Philippine government could have a 1:1 replacement of the UH-1D/H Huey fleet, and even have more helicopters to meet the AFP's total needs for at least 100 available utility & transport helicopters at any given time.<br /><br /><span><b><u><span style="color: red;">Project Summary:<br /></span></u></b><br /><span><span face=""arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif"><b><u>Combat Utility Helicopter Phase 4 Acquisition Project:</u></b></span><br /><span face=""arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif"><span face=""arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif"><b><u><br /></u></b><i>Note: Edited as of 14 February 2021.</i><br /><b><u><br /></u></b></span><span face=""arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif"><b>* End User:</b> Philippine Air Force (205th Tactical Helicopter Wing)<br /><br />* <b>Quantity:</b> between 15 to 32 units, depending on funding availability</span></span><br /><span face=""arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif"><b><br />* Modernization Phase:</b> 2nd List of Horizon 2 Phase of RAFPMP</span><br /><span face=""arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif"><span face=""arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif"><b><br />* Project ABC:</b> TBC, at least Php32 billion</span><span face=""arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif"><br /><br />* </span><b>Acquisition Mode</b><span face=""arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif">: TBC, but US Foreign Military Sales (US FMS) Program is said to be preferred if going with Lockheed Martin.<br /><br /></span></span><b>* Source of Funding:</b> Multi-Year Contractual Authority for still unconfirmed number of years<br /><span face=""arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif"><b><br />* SARO Release/s: </b>TBC</span><br /><span face=""arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif"><b><br /></b><b>* Winning Proponent:</b><span face=""arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif"> TBC</span></span><br /><span face=""arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif"><br /><b>* Product for Delivery: </b>assumed to be Sikorsky S-70i Black Hawk but still depends on final decision</span><br /><span face=""arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif"><br /><b>* Contract Price:</b> TBA</span><br /><span face=""arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif"><b><br /></b><b>* First post by MaxDefense: <a href="https://www.facebook.com/MaxDefense/posts/1437811349722851"><span style="color: #2b00fe;">10 December 2020</span></a></b></span><br /><span face=""arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif"><b><br /></b><b>* MaxDefense Searching Hashtag:</b><span face=""arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif"> #PAFCUHPhase4Acquisition </span></span><br /><span face=""arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif"><span face=""arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif"><b><br /></b></span><span face=""arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif"><b>* Status:</b> </span></span><span face=""arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif"><span face=""arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif"><span face=""arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif"><span face=""arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif">Project still being negotiated between the DND/PAF and Lockheed Martin and the US government. DND hopeful to sign a contract within 2021.</span></span><br /></span></span></span></span></span></span><br /><span>===============<br /><span>===============</span><br /><span>First release: 14 February 2021<br /></span></span><span>Copyright MaxDefense Philippines<br /></span></p><div><span style="clear: left; display: inline; font-family: arial; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiYWXCNgEKjy9PvhyXm0jmw-UnztULhhX9_GTnNx_JypEfRUOe07Cmiy5RovWdombNpNjDgXqOLGsfr3ebf42GCzvvv9mgDCJupEGN2BfPWB07rMXH1PWyeHsOmXJDQ-oAMnohCrulGckI/s1600/20160919_073729.jpg" style="clear: left; display: inline; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="227" data-original-width="961" height="75" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiYWXCNgEKjy9PvhyXm0jmw-UnztULhhX9_GTnNx_JypEfRUOe07Cmiy5RovWdombNpNjDgXqOLGsfr3ebf42GCzvvv9mgDCJupEGN2BfPWB07rMXH1PWyeHsOmXJDQ-oAMnohCrulGckI/s320/20160919_073729.jpg" width="320" /></a></span></div></div><div><br /></div>max monterohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16217644456257635987noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3838050795464426329.post-65067429890257174192021-02-07T00:22:00.006+11:002021-05-30T18:25:54.503+10:00The Philippine Army will have new mine detection and emergency bridging capabilities soon<p><span style="font-family: arial;"> <br />The Philippine Army (PA) is expected to gain a new capability soon as it acquires new assets as part of its modernization program.<br /><br />Mine Clearing Operations have been part of the Philippine Army's capabilities for decades, but has been limited in terms of scale, complexity, and scope. It has not been given enough focus due to the limited cases on uses of mines in the Philippines after World War 2.<br /><br />With the experience in the Battle of Marawi in 2017 against ISIS-inspired terrorists that used IEDs and mines in urban combat operations, the Philippine Army may have realized the importance of having improved battlefield mine clearing capabilities to protect its troops in combat and non-combat / post-combat, and peacetime support operations.<br /><br />Major emergency bridging capabilities is another non-existent capability within the Philippine Army. <br /><br />This was also evident during the Battle of Marawi where the Philippine Army was pinned down in crossing a river as terrorist snipers and machine gunners were position near an existing major concrete bridge, when the Philippine Army could have crossed the river somewhere else and create another front.</span></p><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="405" data-original-width="888" height="290" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgQ-lXgo9C-flBlWutUASzea14zVazce7957zotbF-FeXLSAfWNhS1swTG7UB7cshEGaalDy1OvV5LB73sUoZkQm1EpXFAb807aS2hJXiGHGMxbJtT8tKFRdIE2GQBkDNL4dUdUxyfZ5D0/w640-h290/WFEL-Dry-Support-Bridge-DVD14-03.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" width="640" /></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: x-small;">A WFEL Dry Support Bridge launcher using an Iveco-made platform, with a simplified demonstration unit for the system. Photo credits to original source.</span></td></tr></tbody></table><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgQ-lXgo9C-flBlWutUASzea14zVazce7957zotbF-FeXLSAfWNhS1swTG7UB7cshEGaalDy1OvV5LB73sUoZkQm1EpXFAb807aS2hJXiGHGMxbJtT8tKFRdIE2GQBkDNL4dUdUxyfZ5D0/s888/WFEL-Dry-Support-Bridge-DVD14-03.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: x-small;"></span></a></div><span style="font-family: arial;"><br /></span><p><span style="font-family: arial;"><span style="color: red;"><b><u>Mine Detection Capabilities:<br /></u></b></span><br />The intention to improve mine detection capabilities, as well as emergency bridging capabilities were evident in the acquisition plans the Philippine Army has forwarded for priority implementation under the Horizon 2 phase of the Revised AFP Modernization Program covering years 2018 to 2022.<br /><br />It was included in the Combat Engineering Equipment Acquisition Project, which includes 2 lots for mine detection capabilities, and 3 lots for bridging capabilities.<br /><br />1. First is the Lot 7 - Mini Mine Detector (MMD) Acquisition Project which will provide handheld mine detection systems for small scale and space-restrained environments. The project is currently in the procurement phase but has encountered delays. This project has been discussed in our extension's resource page which can be accessed on the link below:<br /><br />"<a href="https://www.phdefenseresource.com/2019/11/combat-engineering-equipment-mini-mine.html"><b><span style="color: #2b00fe;"><i>Combat Engineering Equipment Lot 7 - Mini Mine Detectors Acquisition Project</i></span></b></a>" - first posted at Philippine Defense Resource on 25 October 2019.<br /><br />2. The second one, which is one of the main topics of this blog entry, is the <b><u><span style="color: red;">Lot 6 - Vehicle Mounted Mine Detector (VMMD) Acquisition Project</span></u></b>, which intends to bring in a mine detection capability to cover larger areas to protect operators.<br /><br />Four (4) vehicle systems are planned, including all necessary accessories, integrated logistics support (ILS), and support for the vehicles, </span><span style="font-family: arial;">with a budget of Php138 million. </span><span style="font-family: arial;">This is very important since the PA does not have experience operating similar or same vehicles or equipment in the past.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial;"><br />According to MaxDefense Philippines sources from the Philippine Army, the Department of National Defense (DND) has awarded the project last month to UK-based Armtrac Ltd under a Philippines - United Kingdom Government-to-Government (G2G) deal supported by the UK's Ministry of Defence.<br /><br />While no specific model was mentioned by our sources, Armtrac actually has four mine detection vehicles in its product offerings, only different from each other in terms of size and overall capability.<br /><br />But based on the technical specifications from the DND and Philippine Army, we believe that the closest product to it is the Armtrac 100-350 Mk. 2 vehicle mounted mine detector.</span></p><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjo2C-A3jrR3781HNg90MCGS3ZNl1J_3iwAqziSJNEgBe3gJT71YvUd3FByQifrncPmnYaIhjJJwgIiKwIuVt5RfNLZXCPhpQcNsXA3Ch1Se1TpnyFEnkvNOSSO78Nr5tRQmZHO9xNtuHI/s1504/36972286_1863261477050618_4248104302242955264_o.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><span style="font-family: arial;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1000" data-original-width="1504" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjo2C-A3jrR3781HNg90MCGS3ZNl1J_3iwAqziSJNEgBe3gJT71YvUd3FByQifrncPmnYaIhjJJwgIiKwIuVt5RfNLZXCPhpQcNsXA3Ch1Se1TpnyFEnkvNOSSO78Nr5tRQmZHO9xNtuHI/w640-h426/36972286_1863261477050618_4248104302242955264_o.jpg" width="640" /></span></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: x-small;">The Armtrac 100-350 Mk.2 (above) is the closest to the specs of the specs of the project provided by PA sources to MaxDefense Philippines. Photo taken from <a href="https://armtrac.net/">Armtrac's website</a>.</span></td></tr></tbody></table><span style="font-family: arial;"><br /></span><div><span style="font-family: arial;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-family: arial;">According to the product information of both equipment, the Armtrac 100-350 Mk. 2 is armored and have protected cabins, can be operated manually or via remote controlled system. It uses a Ground Probing Radar (GPR) for search and detection of IED, mines, and bombs. The GPR is used with a robotic arms, and also includes a vegetation cutter.<br /><br /></span></div><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj_xqHNJDKAikpCMYMBhgCGDqw3eLXmw-0FaO75Ak1LRCniXm005Y2ynY3mDs9aANlbujqOGyg0y8fiDtqcdLljxmSI2oCpdyXCrmMM-OUCIOO93E4yAv4YoNfSzpjzRmVlxGGlcRjKmjo/s275/images.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><span style="font-family: arial;"><img border="0" data-original-height="183" data-original-width="275" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj_xqHNJDKAikpCMYMBhgCGDqw3eLXmw-0FaO75Ak1LRCniXm005Y2ynY3mDs9aANlbujqOGyg0y8fiDtqcdLljxmSI2oCpdyXCrmMM-OUCIOO93E4yAv4YoNfSzpjzRmVlxGGlcRjKmjo/w640-h426/images.jpg" width="640" /></span></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: x-small;">An example of how the Armtrac 100-350 Mk. 2 is utilized for mine detection using 2 robotic arms. Photo taken from Armtrac's website.</span></td></tr></tbody></table><span style="font-family: arial;"><br /></span><div><span style="font-family: arial;">Aside from mine detection, the vehicle can actually be used also for route proving and clearing against mines, IEDs and bombs, and create safe passage ways for combat troops and vehicles. This can be done by installing the system's 3-meter Tiller and Flail header, as well as the Armtrac C-IED mine roller system.</span></div><div><span style="font-family: arial;"><br /><br /><b><u><span style="color: red;">Emergency Bridging Capabilities:<br /></span></u></b><br />1. For emergency bridging capabilities, one of the projects that was previously discussed in our blogs and social media post was the <b><u><span style="color: red;">Lot 1 - Armored Vehicle Launched Bridge (AVLB) Acquisition Project</span></u></b>, which was awarded to the Joint Venture of Elbit Systems and IMI Systems Ltd on 26 December 2019. This project has been discussed in our extension's resource page which can be accessed on the link below:<br /><br />"<a href="https://www.phdefenseresource.com/2019/11/combat-engineering-equipment-armored.html"><b><i><span style="color: #2b00fe;">Combat Engineering Equipment Lot 1 - Armored Vehicle Launched Bridge Acquisition Project</span></i></b></a>" - first posted at Philippine Defense Resource on 24 October 2019.<br /><br /></span></div><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgn_obZZ6XEhyoROiklI3K-SzzSpae-7BVKHcxLL3rODKtP5Vp8Onj-B-3WQekOORR5OUIMuDhNKGxoyBBBP0O2dJWNFl19iOOaO6uQV_8iGMyXMhM9OL8BCBgyVbun2SCEpfXB6GUy4po/s800/Leopard-2-Leguan-bridge-layer.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><span style="font-family: arial;"><img border="0" data-original-height="445" data-original-width="800" height="354" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgn_obZZ6XEhyoROiklI3K-SzzSpae-7BVKHcxLL3rODKtP5Vp8Onj-B-3WQekOORR5OUIMuDhNKGxoyBBBP0O2dJWNFl19iOOaO6uQV_8iGMyXMhM9OL8BCBgyVbun2SCEpfXB6GUy4po/w640-h354/Leopard-2-Leguan-bridge-layer.jpg" width="640" /></span></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: x-small;">An example of an AVLB using a Leopard 2 chassis. Photo taken from Defpost.com.</span></td></tr></tbody></table><span style="font-family: arial;"><br /></span><div><span style="font-family: arial;">The project aims to provide a quick-deployment steel bridge capable of carrying loads up to Military Load Classification MLC 50 (50 tons) and a span of at least 18 meters long. </span></div><div><span style="font-family: arial;"><br />But the product to be delivered by the winning bidder, which is based on the Leonardo DRS-IMI Joint Assault Bridge, would be providing is said to be capable of loads up to MLC 85 (85 tons), which includes main battle tanks and other heavy combat vehicles.<br /><br />The AVLB would be suitable for rapid crossing of rivers and obstacles due to its short deployment and recovery times.</span></div><div><span style="font-family: arial;"><br /></span></div><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg7DObCSuDpvhWo25eLN_t5ZuacanAbj1yx0op2MnvIjwUnVBlMQRgHnzsEhOzar3mnYu4TGoXV6D80V08Z-E0oQ1nBj8OEf_Cp3k6n-d548AQ6FVhgtTuywnSo_uasgKTy-LUfv_jDhtA/s925/US_1st_Infantry_Division_combined-arms_soldiers_test_Joint_Assault_Bridge_4.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><span style="font-family: arial;"><img border="0" data-original-height="623" data-original-width="925" height="430" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg7DObCSuDpvhWo25eLN_t5ZuacanAbj1yx0op2MnvIjwUnVBlMQRgHnzsEhOzar3mnYu4TGoXV6D80V08Z-E0oQ1nBj8OEf_Cp3k6n-d548AQ6FVhgtTuywnSo_uasgKTy-LUfv_jDhtA/w640-h430/US_1st_Infantry_Division_combined-arms_soldiers_test_Joint_Assault_Bridge_4.jpg" width="640" /></span></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: x-small;">The Joint Assault Bridge being deployed across a wide trench during demonstrations. Photo taken from Leonardo DSI's website.</span></td></tr></tbody></table><span style="font-family: arial;"><br /></span><div><span style="font-family: arial;">2. </span><span style="font-family: arial;">The second bridging capability equipment being acquired is the </span><b style="font-family: arial;"><u><span style="color: red;">Lot 2 - Floating Support Bridge (FSB) Acquisition Project</span></u></b><span style="font-family: arial;">, which is still in procurement phase and has not been awarded yet. The system involves a bridging system that can float over water and can also be used like a raft to cross equipment over wider bodies of water.</span></div><div><span style="font-family: arial;"><br />These are capable of carrying main battle tanks and other heavy equipment, although its more suitable for calm bodies of water like rivers or lakes.</span></div><div><span style="font-family: arial;"><br />MaxDefense Philippines believes that the project is being negotiated with the UK Ministry of Defence as it is also planned to be acquired via G2G with the UK government, although there were also indications that DND officials close to the so-called Davao Group composed of close people to Pres. Duterte, are pushing for a Chinese solution which the Philippine Army is said to be against of.<br /><br />According to sources from the Philippine Army who are involved in the project, the Chinese offering is far cheaper, but is believed to be less robust and have issues regarding longevity and quality.<br /><br /></span></div><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEimTscLqcbdLxz1vXR1hBsG7wW2d0grA4N0P9dlii0Cd31yBRkm_gl1azJg-2SvRXQWu9YJDKNXSCrr_gxbqhlrbgzGN9j8pmE7C8qzxJhm1J8sqxtbxJ9gyPlp-RO7HhvcXB9BgmACmuM/s800/contact_magazine_news_ribbon_bridge1-800x445.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><span style="font-family: arial;"><img border="0" data-original-height="445" data-original-width="800" height="354" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEimTscLqcbdLxz1vXR1hBsG7wW2d0grA4N0P9dlii0Cd31yBRkm_gl1azJg-2SvRXQWu9YJDKNXSCrr_gxbqhlrbgzGN9j8pmE7C8qzxJhm1J8sqxtbxJ9gyPlp-RO7HhvcXB9BgmACmuM/w640-h354/contact_magazine_news_ribbon_bridge1-800x445.jpg" width="640" /></span></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: x-small;">A Ribbon Bridge, this example from General Dynamics European Land Systems, is an example of a floating support bridge. Photo taken from Contact Air Land Sea's webiste.</span></td></tr></tbody></table><span style="font-family: arial;"><br /></span><div><span style="font-family: arial;"><br /><br />3. The third project, which is also one of the main topics of this entry is the <b><u><span style="color: red;">Lot 3 - Dry Support Bridge (DSB)</span></u></b>, a tactical military bridging system that allows for use on longer spans, usually at least 45 meters long, at a very short period of time.<br /><br />According to MaxDefense Philippines sources from the Philippine Army, the Department of National Defense (DND) has awarded the project last month to UK-based WFEL Ltd. under a Philippines - United Kingdom Government-to-Government (G2G) deal supported by the UK's Ministry of Defence.<br /><br />Two sets of Dry Support Bridges, complete with the transport trucks, handling systems and all other accessories plus the Integrated Logistics Support (ILS) are part of the deal, which is estimated to be worth Php1.25 billion.<br /><br />The WFEL Dry Support Bridge is an interesting system, which includes a launching system usually using a 10x10 military truck that builds a gantry that would allow the support and slinging of the bridge to the other end of the river or obstacle. It spans at around 49 meters, has a Military Load Classification of MLC 120 (around 120 tons), and can be completely deployed in less than 90 minutes.<br /><br /></span></div><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgNAYhD3l9DzzRTVjTQ3O8RAPXDLZN3YSemV-PzMq-uiiX87tIaPYxBcx0HXy-BUtcwbw7BCf2Cn1A1eNfia64lSc2dRCFKoZjVHkPlMU-CVLqcYldi8qxjG_Pp31AvmNvJqiwbKUf3UgQ/s630/http___yaffa-cdn.s3.amazonaws.com_yaffadsp_images_dmImage_SourceImage_DSB-Build-12.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><span style="font-family: arial;"><img border="0" data-original-height="420" data-original-width="630" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgNAYhD3l9DzzRTVjTQ3O8RAPXDLZN3YSemV-PzMq-uiiX87tIaPYxBcx0HXy-BUtcwbw7BCf2Cn1A1eNfia64lSc2dRCFKoZjVHkPlMU-CVLqcYldi8qxjG_Pp31AvmNvJqiwbKUf3UgQ/w640-h426/http___yaffa-cdn.s3.amazonaws.com_yaffadsp_images_dmImage_SourceImage_DSB-Build-12.jpg" width="640" /></span></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: x-small;">The launching vehicle is being prepared to build the gantry, which is being assembled before expanding. Photo taken from Australian Defence Magazine.</span></td></tr></tbody></table><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial;"><br /></span></div><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhkh5uUvyUPs5YZfofQOqHs-KF2OfdZPi5MWK0ScGS6af2ACMrx8aVDCoSFjwJVns6etH_jFj8bjUManAg_nFeARBo38NWOgzqAnj9ZL6kugW0YKjdzyvMsTHW9PPCeIBzrCSHZNkbvt6g/s1200/D7IE16vXoAAjaVa.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><span style="font-family: arial;"><img border="0" data-original-height="678" data-original-width="1200" height="362" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhkh5uUvyUPs5YZfofQOqHs-KF2OfdZPi5MWK0ScGS6af2ACMrx8aVDCoSFjwJVns6etH_jFj8bjUManAg_nFeARBo38NWOgzqAnj9ZL6kugW0YKjdzyvMsTHW9PPCeIBzrCSHZNkbvt6g/w640-h362/D7IE16vXoAAjaVa.jpg" width="640" /></span></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: x-small;">The gantry has been assembled and extended over the obstacle. Once the gantry is extended, it would be deployed to support and sling the bridge. Photo taken from Australian Army's Twitter account.</span></td></tr></tbody></table><span style="font-family: arial;"><br /></span><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEizZ7hBywcsBkASJrpLPxj5oylkFMV0WsVapHsNajhY5eEMSz5JNhIYsUIVTR0wugjIygBb775_ap-W75fsn7F27OX9Qp-_iMnKiv1ZEDJ3UP3uM7SRbazAjhbxZ5lcDI2fc43MBsWOycc/s1024/DSB.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><span style="font-family: arial;"><img border="0" data-original-height="683" data-original-width="1024" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEizZ7hBywcsBkASJrpLPxj5oylkFMV0WsVapHsNajhY5eEMSz5JNhIYsUIVTR0wugjIygBb775_ap-W75fsn7F27OX9Qp-_iMnKiv1ZEDJ3UP3uM7SRbazAjhbxZ5lcDI2fc43MBsWOycc/w640-h426/DSB.jpg" width="640" /></span></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: x-small;">The bridge components are slinged while supported by the extended gantry. Photo credits to original source.</span></td></tr></tbody></table><div><span style="font-family: arial;"><br /><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-family: arial;"><b><u><span style="color: red;">Status of Projects:<br /></span></u></b><br />The Vehicle Mounted Mine Detector and Dry Support Bridge Acquisition Projects were said to have the Notice of Award (NOA) released only in early January 2021, and it remains to be seen when the contract would be signed and the Notice to Proceed (NTP) released. But it is expected that partial deliveries would be made by 2022, and full delivery can be done by 2023.<br /><br />As for the Floating Support Bridge Acquisition Project, we are expecting the procurement process to proceed this year, although it remains to be seen if it would be acquired through public bidding or negotiated procurement / Government-to-Government process.<br /><br />The Mini Mine Detector Acquisition Project is already in procurement stage, and is expected to restart the bidding process in 2021.<br /><br />So far, the Armored Vehicle Launched Bridge Acquisition Project is the only Combat Engineering Equipment project that has moved beyond NTP release and contract signing, which was made in 2020. <br /><br />Nonetheless, all these new acquisitions would provide the Philippine Army with expanded Combat Engineering capabilities, many of which are capabilities and assets they would be having for the first time.<br /><br />As proven in several cases, these new assets would not just be helpful to support combat operations, but also provide support during emergencies and natural disasters, and in HADR operations during peacetime.<br /><br /><b><u><span style="color: red;">Project Summaries:<br /></span></u></b><br /><span><span face=""arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif"><b><u>Vehicle-Mounted Mine Detector Acquisition Project:</u></b></span><br /><span face=""arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif"><span face=""arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif"><b><u><br /></u></b><i>Note: Edited as of 06 February 2021.</i><br /><b><u><br /></u></b></span><span face=""arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif"><b>* End User:</b> Philippine Army (Combat Engineering units)<br /><br />* <b>Quantity:</b> 4 units</span></span><br /><span face=""arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif"><b><br />* Modernization Phase:</b> Horizon 2 Phase of RAFPMP</span><br /><span face=""arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif"><span face=""arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif"><b><br />* Project ABC:</b> Php138,000,000.00</span><span face=""arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif"><br /><br />* </span><b>Acquisition Mode</b><span face=""arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif">: Government-to-Government (G2G) deal between Philippine DND and UK Ministry of Defence.<br /><br /></span></span><b>* Source of Funding:</b> Multi-Year Contractual Authority for 3 years, using General Appropriations Act (GAA) from FY2020 to FY2022.<br /><span face=""arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif"><b><br />* SARO Release/s: </b>TBA</span><br /><span face=""arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif"><b><br /></b><b>* Winning Proponent:</b><span face=""arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif"> Armtrac Ltd.</span></span><br /><span face=""arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif"><br /><b>* Product for Delivery: </b>assumed to be the Armtrac 100-350 Mk.2 VMMD</span><br /><span face=""arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif"><br /><b>* Contract Price:</b> TBA</span><br /><span face=""arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif"><b><br /></b><b>* First post by MaxDefense: </b><a href="https://maxdefense.blogspot.com/p/the-maxdefenses-afp-modernization_2.html"><b><span style="color: #2b00fe;">2019</span></b></a></span><br /><span face=""arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif"><b><br /></b><b>* MaxDefense Searching Hashtag:</b><span face=""arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif"> #PACEEVMMDAcquisition </span></span><br /><span face=""arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif"><span face=""arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif"><b><br /></b></span><span face=""arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif"><b>* Status:</b> Project was implemented through G2G with UK government. Armtrac Ltd. received NOA on January 2021, contract and NTP release expected by February or March 2021.<br /></span></span><br />X X X X X X X X X X<br /><br /><span face=""arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif"><b><u>Dry Support Bridge Acquisition Project:</u></b></span><br /><span face=""arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif"><span face=""arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif"><b><u><br /></u></b></span></span><span face=""arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif"><span face=""arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif"><span face=""arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif"><span face=""arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif"><i>Note: Edited as of 06 February 2021.</i><br /><b><u><br /></u></b></span><span face=""arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif"><b>* End User:</b> Philippine Army (Combat Engineering units)<br /><br />* <b>Quantity:</b> 2 units</span></span><br /><span face=""arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif"><b><br />* Modernization Phase:</b> Horizon 2 Phase of RAFPMP</span><br /><span face=""arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif"><span face=""arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif"><b><br />* Project ABC:</b> Php1,250,000,000.00</span><span face=""arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif"><br /><br />* </span><b>Acquisition Mode</b><span face=""arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif">: Government-to-Government (G2G) deal between Philippine DND and UK Ministry of Defence.<br /><br /></span></span><b>* Source of Funding:</b> Multi-Year Contractual Authority for 3 years, using General Appropriations Act (GAA) from FY2020 to FY2022.<br /><span face=""arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif"><b><br />* SARO Release/s: </b>TBA</span><br /><span face=""arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif"><b><br /></b><b>* Winning Proponent:</b><span face=""arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif"> WFEL Ltd.</span></span><br /><span face=""arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif"><br /><b>* Product for Delivery: </b>WFEL Dry Support Bridge</span><br /><span face=""arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif"><br /><b>* Contract Price:</b> TBA</span><br /><span face=""arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif"><b><br /></b><b>* First post by MaxDefense: </b><a href="https://maxdefense.blogspot.com/p/the-maxdefenses-afp-modernization_2.html"><b><span style="color: #2b00fe;">2019</span></b></a></span><br /><span face=""arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif"><b><br /></b><b>* MaxDefense Searching Hashtag:</b><span face=""arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif"> #PACEEDSBAcquisition </span></span><br /><span face=""arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif"><span face=""arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif"><b><br /></b></span><span face=""arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif"><b>* Status:</b> Project was implemented through G2G with UK government. WFEL Ltd. received NOA on January 2021, contract and NTP release expected by February or March 2021.</span></span><br /></span></span></span></span><br /><span style="font-family: arial;">===============<br /><span>===============</span><br /><span>First release: 06 February 2021<br /></span></span><span style="font-family: arial;">Copyright MaxDefense Philippines<br /><div style="text-align: left;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiYWXCNgEKjy9PvhyXm0jmw-UnztULhhX9_GTnNx_JypEfRUOe07Cmiy5RovWdombNpNjDgXqOLGsfr3ebf42GCzvvv9mgDCJupEGN2BfPWB07rMXH1PWyeHsOmXJDQ-oAMnohCrulGckI/s1600/20160919_073729.jpg" style="clear: left; display: inline; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial;"><img border="0" data-original-height="227" data-original-width="961" height="75" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiYWXCNgEKjy9PvhyXm0jmw-UnztULhhX9_GTnNx_JypEfRUOe07Cmiy5RovWdombNpNjDgXqOLGsfr3ebf42GCzvvv9mgDCJupEGN2BfPWB07rMXH1PWyeHsOmXJDQ-oAMnohCrulGckI/s320/20160919_073729.jpg" width="320" /></span></a></div></span><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><div><br /></div></div></div>max monterohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16217644456257635987noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3838050795464426329.post-48268531581927734192021-01-06T18:17:00.001+11:002021-02-14T19:51:26.720+11:00Philippine Navy starts procurement of torpedoes and countermeasures for Jose Rizal-class frigates<p><span style="font-family: arial;"> <br />The Philippine Navy (PN) has finally started the acquisition process of torpedoes and countermeasures that will be for use on the service's new <i>Jose Rizal</i>-class frigates that were introduced starting mid 2020.<br /><br />This has been highly anticipated, considering the first frigate of the class, the lead ship BRP <i>Jose Rizal</i> (FF-150) has already entered service with the Philippine Navy since June 2020, while the second ship of the class, the <i>Antonio Luna </i>(FF-151) is on its way for delivery in early 2021.<br /><br />These acquisition would allow the new frigates to gain offensive capabilities against submarines, and defensive capabilities against torpedoes and missiles.</span></p><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjohz__OaA1Dk-l0FVM0TXZp-HBHK8lHgmbhnsHNdRIy9M9MU4PvmkyrrVxs4d8o9H9lx-qJq5LEMdS_WNShWatcG3TN-b-dKyiHt5t_ElBxWtOByWycx97mwOsVdfcQc_pAOvWc_rWR88/s2048/hs5schqstqo41.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><span style="font-family: arial;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1365" data-original-width="2048" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjohz__OaA1Dk-l0FVM0TXZp-HBHK8lHgmbhnsHNdRIy9M9MU4PvmkyrrVxs4d8o9H9lx-qJq5LEMdS_WNShWatcG3TN-b-dKyiHt5t_ElBxWtOByWycx97mwOsVdfcQc_pAOvWc_rWR88/w640-h426/hs5schqstqo41.jpg" width="640" /></span></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: x-small;">A torpedo launched from a US Navy destroyer. Photo credits to US Navy.</span></td></tr></tbody></table><span style="font-family: arial;"><br /></span><p><b><u><span style="color: red; font-family: arial;">Frigate Equipment:</span></u></b></p><p><span style="font-family: arial;">The <i>Jose Rizal</i>-class frigates are equipped with two triple trainable 324mm lightweight anti-submarine torpedo tubes from UK's SEA. , as well as two C-Guard DL-6T chaff dispensers from Denmark's Terma A/S.</span></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh-WrR1yJO0HbLgvc-RrREP8jW0iN04DaExCJxuNo54KpSTU4wp4wmeV1vWNq9oVzfe6S4kzlDCOJ3sfYs6ehWtPUSWMZb22yFROpf097FTM5fl9FPUpOiIPK64EIiZybg_RnazDftqG8E/s640/SEA-torpdeo_launching_system.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: arial;"><img border="0" data-original-height="433" data-original-width="640" height="430" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh-WrR1yJO0HbLgvc-RrREP8jW0iN04DaExCJxuNo54KpSTU4wp4wmeV1vWNq9oVzfe6S4kzlDCOJ3sfYs6ehWtPUSWMZb22yFROpf097FTM5fl9FPUpOiIPK64EIiZybg_RnazDftqG8E/w640-h430/SEA-torpdeo_launching_system.jpg" width="640" /></span></a></div><span style="font-family: arial;"><br /></span><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial;"><br /></span></div><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiIpjBdljTtQdGIN7RdBYAyKYuHd_R22CuCph-K4CAOttCAviYCgDmujkKH2v-6UIOiZ8v1HyAMLt5lkTSYEqPydDTnp1FhrTY-nbaDDLtIMjPlBWgCLVX3tSrjj9ql4pP16n5iUOsVjCc/s245/download.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><span style="font-family: arial;"><img border="0" data-original-height="206" data-original-width="245" height="335" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiIpjBdljTtQdGIN7RdBYAyKYuHd_R22CuCph-K4CAOttCAviYCgDmujkKH2v-6UIOiZ8v1HyAMLt5lkTSYEqPydDTnp1FhrTY-nbaDDLtIMjPlBWgCLVX3tSrjj9ql4pP16n5iUOsVjCc/w400-h335/download.jpg" width="400" /></span></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: x-small;">The SEA triple torpedo tubes (top) and C-Guard countermeasures dispenser (above). Photo credits to original sources.</span></td></tr></tbody></table><span style="font-family: arial;"><br /></span><div><span style="font-family: arial;">The torpedo tubes are meant as the offensive weapon of the frigate against submarines, with three ready to fire tubes located on each side of the frigate. Western frigate designs usually use the lightweight 324mm torpedoes for surface ships, which work as part of the ship's anti-submarine warfare suite.</span></div><div><span style="font-family: arial;"><br />Among common examples of torpedoes that can be used in this tube caliber are the Franco-Italian EuroTorp MU90 Impact, the American Mark 54 from Raytheon, the Italian WASS A244S, the British Stingray from BAE Systems, and the Korean K745 Blue Shark from LIGNex1.<br /><br />Most of these torpedoes have a typical range of less than 15 kilometers, and are guided to their targets with a combination of active and passive acoustic homing systems.</span></div><div><span style="font-family: arial;"><br /></span></div><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjMH8PD0xmGQ3vi93I6KHSa1UEaKmJh05mSZs5Xas4rZDbEUhiZvYB-obu2j3zComw91h7qsydZY91bbNtglSGlsL2Yx1gacjoRO-PXnMAvZ_uiKSvkH_SAZiOlqW1g0XhGdXoZ_LptF_s/s720/61145905_1497382170387016_7548663012815536128_n+%25281%2529.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><span style="font-family: arial;"><img border="0" data-original-height="341" data-original-width="720" height="302" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjMH8PD0xmGQ3vi93I6KHSa1UEaKmJh05mSZs5Xas4rZDbEUhiZvYB-obu2j3zComw91h7qsydZY91bbNtglSGlsL2Yx1gacjoRO-PXnMAvZ_uiKSvkH_SAZiOlqW1g0XhGdXoZ_LptF_s/w640-h302/61145905_1497382170387016_7548663012815536128_n+%25281%2529.jpg" width="640" /></span></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: x-small;">The torpedo tubes found on the BRP <i>Jose Rizal</i>.</span></td></tr></tbody></table><span style="font-family: arial;"><br /></span><div><span style="font-family: arial;">Also, the Jose Rizal-class frigates are equipped with two C-Guard DL-6T chaff dispensers from Denmark's Terma A/S.<br /><br />The C-Guard was designed to provide coverage against threats like small range gate Radio Frequency (RF) guided missiles, imaging infra-red (IR) seeker missiles, and torpedoes. It utilizes the standard 130mm NATO decoys.<br /><br /></span></div><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjF8TpEK9rvRfTqePQs527pE0SDfLVCFAdXV-G0_rHSJrNuhlUCp8ZzwbuVk40Tcn_d0ZsQTKGMGx31mGn388TPTgpK88KBr_FOkOG87OsNZY3ofFXvg5-TXi_tt16LYwdLMkqabywJURg/s992/WireAP_4ab8bc3f082d43ca93043336957de637_16x9_992.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><span style="font-family: arial;"><img border="0" data-original-height="558" data-original-width="992" height="360" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjF8TpEK9rvRfTqePQs527pE0SDfLVCFAdXV-G0_rHSJrNuhlUCp8ZzwbuVk40Tcn_d0ZsQTKGMGx31mGn388TPTgpK88KBr_FOkOG87OsNZY3ofFXvg5-TXi_tt16LYwdLMkqabywJURg/w640-h360/WireAP_4ab8bc3f082d43ca93043336957de637_16x9_992.jpg" width="640" /></span></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: x-small;">Chaffs were fired from naval ships during an exercise by the Republic of China Navy (ROCN). Photo credits to ABC News.</span></td></tr></tbody></table><div><span style="font-family: arial;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-family: arial;">The decoy launcher is part of a system that includes integration with the ship's combat management system (CMS), which are also interfaced with the ship's radar, electronic support measures (ESM), and other sensors.</span></div><div><span style="font-family: arial;"><br /><b><u><span style="color: red;">Procurement of Torpedoes and Countermeasures:<br /></span></u></b><br />Currently, these systems are unused due to lack of munitions and countermeasures, respectively. And this is what the Philippine Navy is trying to cover with their Frigate Lot 3 Acquisition Project. <br /><br />While the Frigates Lot 1 for the platform, and Lot 2 for the gun and missile ammunitions were procured under the Horizon 1 phase of the Revised AFP Modernization Program, this Lot 3 is actually part of the 2nd List of Horizon 2.<br /><br />It was among those proposed in the original Php650 billion 2017 Horizon 2 Phase Shopping List, but was among those that were taken out of the finalized Php300 billion Horizon 2 Phase priority list approved in principle by President Rodrigo Duterte in June 2018.<br /><br />But due to its urgency and the reliance on Multi-Year Contracting Authority (MYCA) procurement process which did not require the full amount of the project to be paid within the year, the Department of National Defense (DND) and the Philippine Navy were able to squeeze this project in as part of its 2nd List.<br /><br />With a total of Php1,700,000,000.00 as its Approved Budget for Contracting (ABC), the Frigate Lot 3 Acquisition Project was divided into 3 sub-lots: the Lot 3A for Torpedoes with a budget of Php900 million, Lot 3B for Chaffs with a budget of Php350 million, and Lot 3C for Acoustic Decoys with a budget of Php450 million.<br /><br />Lot 3A for Torpedoes will be acquired through Negotiated Procurement, which MaxDefense believes is with the South Korean Ministry of National Defense (ROK MND). This means that the procurement would be for the K745 Blue Shark torpedoes from LIGNex1, which is the only Korean-made lightweight torpedo model.</span></div><div><span style="font-family: arial;"><br /></span></div><span style="font-family: arial;"><br /></span><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEghNwsPTdw8hUEIYCU5NNqQM7OebEoW42pYyruE2nqtIDBGVCFzcpe2p2CEGWsCqCq-MNjBTE92ZfS_cOQt5LmaGAm_Jp53JdaZ3PrZLT5ENOywrhnbLJV9oSwj5ArtUhenoBgJNx3bg-g/s996/1-2.png" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><span style="font-family: arial;"><img border="0" data-original-height="339" data-original-width="996" height="216" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEghNwsPTdw8hUEIYCU5NNqQM7OebEoW42pYyruE2nqtIDBGVCFzcpe2p2CEGWsCqCq-MNjBTE92ZfS_cOQt5LmaGAm_Jp53JdaZ3PrZLT5ENOywrhnbLJV9oSwj5ArtUhenoBgJNx3bg-g/w640-h216/1-2.png" width="640" /></span></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: x-small;">The K745 Blue Shark torpedo. Photo credits to LIGNex1 website.</span></td></tr></tbody></table><span style="font-family: arial;"><br /></span><div><span style="font-family: arial;"><br />This could be a practical approach for the Philippine Navy, which already has the K745 Blue Shark torpedoes in its inventory, but are actually air-launched variants that arms its AgustaWestland AW159 Wildcat ASW helicopters. These helicopters are to be deployed on the same frigates, which means commonality between the ship and its complementing helicopter's munitions.<br /><br />MaxDefense PH is still trying to find out what stage of procurement is the Frigate Lot 3A already in, but our sources mentioned that so far, no contract has been signed yet as of this writing.<br /><br /></span></div><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjmv0iXI3wPQrncJbnaQESz1spmiQHdfQab-9n9F4haI_RcLODvFXaNyIxW60ixtRsAysqk2mcqc_cFik3NH_wr4XaA6SXcMD-11ZIvuH1jxRFrFgJWTUdDPduyWsvvGXQNzpABbNhKJHY/s1600/AW-159+PN+K-745+Blue+Shark+-+PDA.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><span style="font-family: arial;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjmv0iXI3wPQrncJbnaQESz1spmiQHdfQab-9n9F4haI_RcLODvFXaNyIxW60ixtRsAysqk2mcqc_cFik3NH_wr4XaA6SXcMD-11ZIvuH1jxRFrFgJWTUdDPduyWsvvGXQNzpABbNhKJHY/w640-h480/AW-159+PN+K-745+Blue+Shark+-+PDA.jpg" width="640" /></span></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: x-small;">The PN's AW159 Wildcat are also armed with the air-dropped K745 Blue Shark torpedoes from LIGNex1. Photo credits to original source.</span></td></tr></tbody></table><span style="font-family: arial;"><br /></span><div><span style="font-family: arial;">For Lot 3B and Lot 3C, both will be procured through Limited Source Bidding. In fact, the DND already posted the Invitation to Bid and Bid Documents at PhilGEPS Government Procurement Website on December 2020, and at the DND website on January 2021.<br /><br />This means it still remains to be seen what brand and model of chaffs and acoustic decoys will be used as this would be dependent on the result of the bidding.<br /><br /></span></div><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh0XinNG-U1xmcTwVkzpN-qpy69aaj_p5b3cB51ZsQCdVOipsx60eBLHu7ihR6Qg01R_e-acbjdcTsDn_dcZY-DPkPL5QxDa2RFbD5QR46DUnFbEC7DAP37akcvdQfarI55g18wQVzpvDA/s1024/loading-decoy.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><span style="font-family: arial;"><img border="0" data-original-height="731" data-original-width="1024" height="454" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh0XinNG-U1xmcTwVkzpN-qpy69aaj_p5b3cB51ZsQCdVOipsx60eBLHu7ihR6Qg01R_e-acbjdcTsDn_dcZY-DPkPL5QxDa2RFbD5QR46DUnFbEC7DAP37akcvdQfarI55g18wQVzpvDA/w640-h454/loading-decoy.jpg" width="640" /></span></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: x-small;">A US Navy serviceman loading chaffs on a countermeasures dispenser. Photo credits to US Navy.</span></td></tr></tbody></table><span style="font-family: arial;"><br /></span><div><span style="font-family: arial;"><br />MaxDefense is still trying to find out who are the invited bidders for the project, but based on the Supplemental Bid Bulletins released by the DND, South Africa's Rhinemetall Denel Munitions is one of the participants on the Lot 3B tender, while France's Naval Group is also participating on the Lot 3C tender.<br /><br />We also found that Chemring Group was also invited to the Lot 3B, while unnamed companies from the US, Israel, and UK were also invited aside from Naval Group for Lot 3C.<br /><br /><a href="https://www.australiandefence.com.au/defence/sea/naval-group-markets-local-torpedo-countermeasures-to-ran">Naval Group has recently been offering the CANTO acoustic torpedo decoy</a> to regional navies like the Royal Australian Navy, which is compatible with the Terma C-Guard, as shown on the photo below.<br /><br /></span></div><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjH5xTROpTCWsVusPyutQ-seiFq4JTXRlysjXSxonAGYKR2m36-wxaXPBql2J5icn8kKyvJfDLZQAK_pNrrs12md_zF4_saONhDef8HTlHBbJkhVTG4vPezP3Eycxc0Nmp9518TgIm9yHw/s630/canto2.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><span style="font-family: arial;"><img border="0" data-original-height="473" data-original-width="630" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjH5xTROpTCWsVusPyutQ-seiFq4JTXRlysjXSxonAGYKR2m36-wxaXPBql2J5icn8kKyvJfDLZQAK_pNrrs12md_zF4_saONhDef8HTlHBbJkhVTG4vPezP3Eycxc0Nmp9518TgIm9yHw/w640-h480/canto2.jpg" width="640" /></span></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: x-small;">The Naval Group's CANTO 130mm torpedo countermeasures as fitted on a Terma C-Guard decoy launcher. Photo credits to Naval Group.</span></td></tr></tbody></table><span style="font-family: arial;"><br /></span><div><span style="font-family: arial;">Bid submission deadline for the Lot 3B Chaffs tender will be on 12 January 2021, while the Lot 3C Acoustic Decoy will be on 16 February 2021.<br /><br />Due to the project being a limited source bidding, tender documents are only provided to invited tenderers, so it is expected that it won't be made available to the public. So far, the PhilGEPS and DND websites has not posted the Bid Documents that includes the technical requirements and specifications.<br /><br />But what we know so far on the Chaffs and Acoustic Decoys is that they are suppose to fit into the Terma C-Guard's mortar launcher which is around 130mm diameter, standard NATO size. </span></div><div><span style="font-family: arial;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-family: arial;">For now, all we can do is wait for the tender results, and see which company will win so we can try to find out what will potentially be ordered for the Philippine Navy.<br /><br /><b><u><span face=""arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif" style="color: red;">Project Summaries:</span></u></b></span></div><div><p><span style="font-family: arial;"><span><span face=""arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif"><b><u>Frigate Lot 3A - Torpedo Acquisition Project:</u></b></span><br /><span face=""arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif"><span face=""arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif"><b><u><br /></u></b><i>Note: Edited as of 06 January 2021.</i><br /><b><u><br /></u></b></span><span face=""arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif"><b>* End User:</b> Philippine Navy (Offshore Combat Force)<br /><br />* <b>Quantity:</b> classified</span></span><br /><span face=""arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif"><b><br />* Modernization Phase:</b> 2nd List of Horizon 2 Phase of RAFPMP</span><br /><span face=""arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif"><span face=""arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif"><b><br />* Project ABC:</b> Php900,000,000.00</span><span face=""arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif"><br /><br />* </span><b>Acquisition Mode</b><span face=""arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif">: Government-to-Government deal with South Korean Ministry of National Defense.<br /><br /><b>* Source of Funding:</b> GAA Funds through AFP Modernization Program Trust Fund</span></span><br /><span face=""arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif"><b><br />* SARO Release/s: </b>TBA</span><br /><span face=""arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif"><b><br /></b><b>* Winning Proponent:</b><span face=""arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif"> LIGNex1 (South Korea) (not yet awarded)</span></span><br /><span face=""arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif"><br />* <b>Product for Delivery: </b>TBA</span><br /><span face=""arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif"><br /><b>* Contract Price:</b> TBA</span><br /><span face=""arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif"><b><br /></b><b>* First post by MaxDefense: </b><span face=""arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif" style="color: #2b00fe;"><a href="https://maxdefense.blogspot.com/2020/12/maxdefense-phs-year-ender-for-2020.html"><b>31 December 2020</b></a></span></span><br /><span face=""arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif"><b><br /></b><b>* MaxDefense Searching Hashtag:</b><span face=""arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif"> #PNFrigateLot3ATorpedoAcquisition </span></span><br /><span face=""arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif"><span face=""arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif"><b><br /></b></span><span face=""arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif"><b>* Status:</b> Project is being undertaken through G2G with South Korean MND. Product of interest is K745 Blue Shark lightweight torpedo from LIGNex1. No contract has been signed although it is expected to be done before mid 2021.<br /></span></span><br />X X X X X X X X X X<br /><br /><span face=""arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif"><b><u>Frigate Lot 3B - Chaff Acquisition Project:</u></b></span><br /><span face=""arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif"><span face=""arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif"><b><u><br /></u></b><i>Note: Edited as of 06 January 2021.</i><br /><b><u><br /></u></b></span><span face=""arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif"><b>* End User:</b> Philippine Navy (Offshore Combat Force)<br /><br />* <b>Quantity:</b> classified</span></span><br /><span face=""arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif"><b><br />* Modernization Phase:</b> 2nd List of Horizon 2 Phase of RAFPMP</span><br /><span face=""arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif"><span face=""arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif"><b><br />* Project ABC:</b> Php350,000,000.00</span><span face=""arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif"><br /><br />* </span><b>Acquisition Mode</b><span face=""arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif">: Limited Source Bidding<br /><br /><b>* Source of Funding:</b> GAA Funds through AFP Modernization Program Trust Fund</span></span><br /><span face=""arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif"><b><br />* SARO Release/s: </b>TBA</span><br /><span face=""arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif"><b><br /></b><b>* Winning Proponent:</b><span face=""arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif"> TBA</span></span><br /><span face=""arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif"><br />* <b>Product for Delivery: </b>TBA</span><br /><span face=""arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif"><br /><b>* Contract Price:</b> TBA</span><br /><span face=""arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif"><b><br /></b><b>* First post by MaxDefense: </b><span face=""arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif" style="color: #2b00fe;"><a href="https://maxdefense.blogspot.com/2020/12/maxdefense-phs-year-ender-for-2020.html"><b>31 December 2020</b></a></span></span><br /><span face=""arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif"><b><br /></b><b>* MaxDefense Searching Hashtag:</b><span face=""arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif"> #PNFrigateLot3BChaffAcquisition </span></span><br /><span face=""arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif"><span face=""arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif"><b><br /></b></span><span face=""arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif"><b>* Status:</b> Project is being undertaken through Limited Source Bidding. Bid submission and opening scheduled on 12 January 2021.<br /></span></span><br />X X X X X X X X X X<br /><br /><span face=""arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif"><b><u>Frigate Lot 3C - Acoustic Decoy Acquisition Project:</u></b></span><br /><span face=""arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif"><span face=""arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif"><b><u><br /></u></b><i>Note: Edited as of 06 January 2021.</i><br /><b><u><br /></u></b></span><span face=""arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif"><b>* End User:</b> Philippine Navy (Offshore Combat Force)<br /><br />* <b>Quantity:</b> classified</span></span><br /><span face=""arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif"><b><br />* Modernization Phase:</b> 2nd List of Horizon 2 Phase of RAFPMP</span><br /><span face=""arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif"><span face=""arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif"><b><br />* Project ABC:</b> Php450,000,000.00</span><span face=""arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif"><br /><br />* </span><b>Acquisition Mode</b><span face=""arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif">: Limited Source Bidding<br /><br /><b>* Source of Funding:</b> GAA Funds through AFP Modernization Program Trust Fund</span></span><br /><span face=""arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif"><b><br />* SARO Release/s: </b>TBA</span><br /><span face=""arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif"><b><br /></b><b>* Winning Proponent:</b><span face=""arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif"> TBA</span></span><br /><span face=""arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif"><br />* <b>Product for Delivery: </b>TBA</span><br /><span face=""arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif"><br /><b>* Contract Price:</b> TBA</span><br /><span face=""arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif"><b><br /></b><b>* First post by MaxDefense: </b><span face=""arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif" style="color: #2b00fe;"><a href="https://maxdefense.blogspot.com/2020/12/maxdefense-phs-year-ender-for-2020.html"><b>31 December 2020</b></a></span></span><br /><span face=""arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif"><b><br /></b><b>* MaxDefense Searching Hashtag:</b><span face=""arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif"> #PNFrigateLot3CAcousticDecoyAcquisition </span></span><br /><span face=""arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif"><span face=""arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif"><b><br /></b></span><span face=""arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif"><b>* Status:</b> Project is being undertaken through Limited Source Bidding. Bid submission and opening scheduled on 16 February 2021 after requested to be moved by Naval Group.<br /></span></span><br />===============<br /></span>===============<br />First release: 06 January 2021<br />Copyright MaxDefense Philippines</span></p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiYWXCNgEKjy9PvhyXm0jmw-UnztULhhX9_GTnNx_JypEfRUOe07Cmiy5RovWdombNpNjDgXqOLGsfr3ebf42GCzvvv9mgDCJupEGN2BfPWB07rMXH1PWyeHsOmXJDQ-oAMnohCrulGckI/s1600/20160919_073729.jpg" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: arial;"><img border="0" data-original-height="227" data-original-width="961" height="75" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiYWXCNgEKjy9PvhyXm0jmw-UnztULhhX9_GTnNx_JypEfRUOe07Cmiy5RovWdombNpNjDgXqOLGsfr3ebf42GCzvvv9mgDCJupEGN2BfPWB07rMXH1PWyeHsOmXJDQ-oAMnohCrulGckI/s320/20160919_073729.jpg" width="320" /></span></a><div><br /></div></div></div>max monterohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16217644456257635987noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3838050795464426329.post-55917010982785439142020-12-31T21:30:00.065+11:002021-01-01T14:03:21.729+11:00MaxDefense PH's Year-ender for 2020 - A Summary of Project Updates on the Armed Forces of the Philippines Modernization Program<p><span style="font-family: arial;">As part of our year ender for 2020, MaxDefense Philippines has summarized the modernization projects of the Philippine Army, Philippine Navy and Philippine Air Force that have made significant positive AND negative movements in 2020.<br /><br />Another year has passed, yet the COVID-19 pandemic has affected a lot of our expectations for the year, including the accomplishments of the Revised AFP Modernization Program for 2020.<br /><br />But despite this, we still push through forward, including the improvement of the overall defense capability of the country, and provide our military and its men and women with the equipment they need and the state can afford.</span></p><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjmwr1zjSPagkkv8cKWOWmCHu-_M0YNvXZHSpCkrNPuzWX2tWYc5_lLoMNGrIOLIDTqXBehjIVmubN5paAa0KFkfQYg1ynnBgOiT6cwBuZCaO2aXyzPa3PBkLdFTtoUN0iLOziKcu0yZdU/s1606/85th+Anniversary+2.JPG" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><span style="font-family: arial;"><img border="0" data-original-height="816" data-original-width="1606" height="326" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjmwr1zjSPagkkv8cKWOWmCHu-_M0YNvXZHSpCkrNPuzWX2tWYc5_lLoMNGrIOLIDTqXBehjIVmubN5paAa0KFkfQYg1ynnBgOiT6cwBuZCaO2aXyzPa3PBkLdFTtoUN0iLOziKcu0yZdU/w640-h326/85th+Anniversary+2.JPG" width="640" /></span></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: x-small;">PN and PAF assets during the 85th Anniversary of the AFP.</span></td></tr></tbody></table><p><span style="font-family: arial;">We'll try to make this as simple as possible, as many of them have resource pages that our readers can access in case of need for more information, background and updates.</span></p><div><span style="font-family: arial;">Take note that phrases in <b><span style="color: #2b00fe;">BOLD BLUE</span></b> letters can be clicked for links to the resource pages supporting the project.</span></div><p><span style="font-family: arial;"><b><u><span style="color: red;">Philippine Army:<br /></span></u></b><br />For projects covered under the Horizon 1 Phase of the RAFPMP, the following projects were among those that were updated in 2020:<br /><br /><b><a href="https://www.phdefenseresource.com/2020/02/rocket-launcher-light-phase-2.html"><span style="color: #2b00fe;">1. Rocket Launcher Light Phase 2<br /></span></a></b>Deliveries of RPG launchers and ammunition from Russia, the RPG-7V made by NPO Bazalt, were reported to have been made in 2019 and 2020, although exact figures on completion of delivery is still pending. Payment remains an issue due to the Philippine government avoiding getting sanctioned under CAATSA.<br /></span></p><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgo_lcfYElzDiWw9wrDZoORDH1MTcNZyxSpNUKaPj3BVuN46YR2eIuY7SygtmV_racZJAnH_c1_RF-eJED1mf9DGofGub5aOJQM6p9KccWmtYd1DxtQbRIe2G5nviiHcufAsVlH6tfJL4s/s474/OIP.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><span style="font-family: arial;"><img border="0" data-original-height="316" data-original-width="474" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgo_lcfYElzDiWw9wrDZoORDH1MTcNZyxSpNUKaPj3BVuN46YR2eIuY7SygtmV_racZJAnH_c1_RF-eJED1mf9DGofGub5aOJQM6p9KccWmtYd1DxtQbRIe2G5nviiHcufAsVlH6tfJL4s/w640-h426/OIP.jpg" width="640" /></span></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: x-small;">An ATGL-L RPG-7 from Arsenal JSco as displayed on ADAS 2019. Photo exclusively shared to MaxDefense Philippines.</span></td></tr></tbody></table><div><span style="font-family: arial;"><br /></span></div><div><b><span style="font-family: arial;">2. Tactical Engagement Simulation System</span></b></div><div><span style="font-family: arial;">While the V-TESS portion was already delivered by South Korea's SD Systems back in 2018, the I-TESS portion of the system was delivered by an American supplier only in 2020, with the system said to be completed this year.<br /><br /><b>3. Force Protection Equipment - Body Armor<br /></b>Deliveries are said to still be ongoing as of 2020, with 37,744 units of body armor are to be supplied by South Korea's Dae-sung Tech Co. Ltd. We expect completion of the project by 2021.<br /><br /><a href="https://www.phdefenseresource.com/2019/12/762mm-designated-marksman-rifle.html"><b><span style="color: #2b00fe;">4. Designated Marksman Rifle 7.62mm<br /></span></b></a>While the SIG Sauer SIG716G2 designated marksman rifles were delivered in 2019, the rifles were only distributed to Army units in 2020, and are meant to replace the M14 DMRs used by the units receiving the new rifles.</span></div><span style="font-family: arial;"><br /></span><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgDOXNq9DLja_fBCHPWUcySCtT9uGGyQTCNNyDfIUUfB5AzoWgx5IZtkum-W2UpE9AArj9GsuSmcl_erMvkzPtFkjMEpsSLbbx2uyukLmR2GEmf6rv1R6nP7O51JFd-xUye7fDIt4SzZ4Q/s1023/abqpeqyeqno51+%25281%2529.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><span style="font-family: arial;"><img border="0" data-original-height="531" data-original-width="1023" height="332" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgDOXNq9DLja_fBCHPWUcySCtT9uGGyQTCNNyDfIUUfB5AzoWgx5IZtkum-W2UpE9AArj9GsuSmcl_erMvkzPtFkjMEpsSLbbx2uyukLmR2GEmf6rv1R6nP7O51JFd-xUye7fDIt4SzZ4Q/w640-h332/abqpeqyeqno51+%25281%2529.jpg" width="640" /></span></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: x-small;">A SIG716G2 DMR in the hands of a soldier from the 94th Infantry Battalion. Photo credits to 94th IB, PA.</span></td></tr></tbody></table><p><span style="font-family: arial;"><b>5. Forward Support Equipment Phase 1:<br /></b>The SARO for the acquisition of 2.5-ton and 5-ton forklifts were only renewed this year, and it remains to be seen if an award was made to any supplier.<br /><br /><b>6. Long Range Sniper Rifle Weapon System<br /></b>The project has been awarded to American gunmaker Harris Gunworks through their local representative Armscor Global Defense back in 2018, but deliveries are said to still be pending. The rifles are .50 caliber anti-materiel model used for long range engagements.<br /><br /><b>7. Chemical, Biological, Radiological and Nuclear (CBRN) Equipment Lot 2:<br /></b>Funding has been provided for the acquisition of CBRN equipment in November 2019, with the project expected to be tendered in 2020. So far, no known tenders have been made that is related to the project, although MaxDefense PH is still on the lookout for any new updates on this project.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial;"><br />For Horizon 2 and 2nd List of Horizon 2 projects, below are the status of projects that moved in 2020:<br /><br /><b><a href="https://www.phdefenseresource.com/2019/11/light-tank-acquisition-project-of.html"><span style="color: #2b00fe;">1. Light Tanks<br /></span></a></b>The project was awarded to Elbit Systems Land & C4I in 2020, although it remains to be seen if a contract was signed within the year. Elbit will supply the Sabrah Light Tank System, which utilizes the GDELS ASCOD 2 tracked and Excalibur Army Pandur 2 wheeled armored vehicles.<br /></span></p><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhY50yNXQZQKzWogKoCATxfckI5C9QAYkiladq6ErCvqxVxDRbBWTUu8ZW9HSg7k8Fr5bFL3ROZyJDXXXAHukQqmIaLS3hO4O8GEomLAVJB4HVcBuACExQKWqPEKRZDiM5MeeMvLmQFy7w/s645/Sabrah+ASCOD.PNG" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><span style="font-family: arial;"><img border="0" data-original-height="373" data-original-width="645" height="370" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhY50yNXQZQKzWogKoCATxfckI5C9QAYkiladq6ErCvqxVxDRbBWTUu8ZW9HSg7k8Fr5bFL3ROZyJDXXXAHukQqmIaLS3hO4O8GEomLAVJB4HVcBuACExQKWqPEKRZDiM5MeeMvLmQFy7w/w640-h370/Sabrah+ASCOD.PNG" width="640" /></span></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: x-small;">The Sabrah light tank using the GDELS ASCOD 2 platform. Photo credits to Elbit Systems.</span></td></tr></tbody></table><div><span style="font-family: arial;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-family: arial;"><a href="https://www.phdefenseresource.com/2020/10/wheeled-armored-personnel-carrier-apc.html"><b><span style="color: #2b00fe;">2. Wheeled Armored Personnel Carriers:<br /></span></b></a>Another project that was awarded to Elbit Systems Land & C4I within 2020, but the contract appears to be also pending as of end of 2020. Elbit is supplying the Iveco Guarani 6x6 APC with Israeli-made subsystems.</span></div><span style="font-family: arial;"><br /></span><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEit94u1nHUPM11g6qBn0utipZG5lWboQXSpYT1bk7aLLXE7npVK_4ahBFFH_qrhTD6l3FxnMcrtxG5vWaFSF-2bbAv0v0dhMmLcL_WOIp42wP-SgOgbyXnJKYYOCpyE3ooNHPcA3kb8-CA/s640/article.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><span style="font-family: arial;"><img border="0" data-original-height="424" data-original-width="640" height="424" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEit94u1nHUPM11g6qBn0utipZG5lWboQXSpYT1bk7aLLXE7npVK_4ahBFFH_qrhTD6l3FxnMcrtxG5vWaFSF-2bbAv0v0dhMmLcL_WOIp42wP-SgOgbyXnJKYYOCpyE3ooNHPcA3kb8-CA/w640-h424/article.jpg" width="640" /></span></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: x-small;">The Guarani 6x6 APC of the Brazilian Army. Credits to original source of photo.</span></td></tr></tbody></table><p><span style="font-family: arial;"><a href="https://www.phdefenseresource.com/2019/11/155mm-howitzer-self-propelled-system.html"><b><span style="color: #2b00fe;">3. 155mm Howitzer, Self Propelled System<br /></span></b></a>This project had its contract signed with Elbit Systems Land & C4I on January 2020 for the delivery of 2 batteries of Soltam ATMOS 155mm Self Propelled Howitzer System, with production already started and the system scheduled for delivery starting 2021.<br /><br /><a href="https://www.phdefenseresource.com/2020/08/riverine-operations-equipment-lot-1.html"><b><span style="color: #2b00fe;">4. Riverine Assault Boats Lot 1 - Light Boats<br /></span></b></a>The Philippine Army received the first batches of the FRP-hulled Riverine Light Boats made by local company Stoneworks Specialists in 2020. More will be delivered in 2021.<br /></span></p><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgbj1RqJqmzlW5mcfNQqMyz9rdwitcdZsowKBZnLnaDJuv5vOicGq1RaBoJnI6lX095TP5kBfyrOQjXFuv2kImFM7XNgUbw1GwpaAIfWKmvUKr2Ju7BuoMCrM5aEIgPHZy1xfamIMTdF3Q/s900/110316680_2615975878650954_6931955126060772515_n.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><span style="font-family: arial;"><img border="0" data-original-height="600" data-original-width="900" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgbj1RqJqmzlW5mcfNQqMyz9rdwitcdZsowKBZnLnaDJuv5vOicGq1RaBoJnI6lX095TP5kBfyrOQjXFuv2kImFM7XNgUbw1GwpaAIfWKmvUKr2Ju7BuoMCrM5aEIgPHZy1xfamIMTdF3Q/w640-h426/110316680_2615975878650954_6931955126060772515_n.jpg" width="640" /></span></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: x-small;">A Riverine Light Boat from Stoneworks Specialists. Photo credits to PA.</span></td></tr></tbody></table><div><span style="font-family: arial;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-family: arial;"><a href="https://www.phdefenseresource.com/2020/06/40mm-revolver-grenade-launcher.html"><b><span style="color: #2b00fe;">5. 40mm Revolving Grenade Launchers<br /></span></b></a>The project was awarded to Rippel Effect in 2019 for the supply of the XRGL40 multi-shot 40mm grenade launchers, although the contract was signed in 2020. Deliveries are expected to proceed within 2020, but apparently there are some issues regarding this project.<br /><br /><a href="https://www.phdefenseresource.com/2019/11/combat-engineering-equipment-armored.html"><b><span style="color: #2b00fe;">6. Combat Engineering Equipment Lot 1 - Armored Vehicle Launched-Bridge<br /></span></b></a>Delays have been encountered in this project, which was awarded to Elbit Systems Land & C4I in early 2020. Elbit was said to have offered a variant of the Leonardo-IMI Joint Assault Bridge, and would be using a Leopard 2 platform. Delivery is expected in either 2021 or 2022.<br /><br /><a href="https://www.phdefenseresource.com/2020/02/combat-engineering-equipment-armored.html"><b><span style="color: #2b00fe;">7. Combat Engineering Equipment Lot 4 - Amrored Combat Engineering Vehicle<br /></span></b></a>The project was awarded to Turkey's FNSS for their Kunduz Amphibious Armored Combat Engineer vehicle in 2020. While contract signing confirmation is still pending, we are expecting funding delays that will affect the positive movement of this project.</span></div><span style="font-family: arial;"><br /></span><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhelC9m57KmtWjMZIJG6oyf41PD9L0YV-5uq54KYsoJn2jtbLQ5ESYsyAzdZqZj2Fu7FUVOKbJRppBrS2UQoy4fFb3JWIceZvM_5C2cicCohnbjDcJGQtWJtM67j3cG5V-CcPMQMrnLWl4/s1520/5fc7f188ad9e8ed5423390c867070531.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><span style="font-family: arial;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1013" data-original-width="1520" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhelC9m57KmtWjMZIJG6oyf41PD9L0YV-5uq54KYsoJn2jtbLQ5ESYsyAzdZqZj2Fu7FUVOKbJRppBrS2UQoy4fFb3JWIceZvM_5C2cicCohnbjDcJGQtWJtM67j3cG5V-CcPMQMrnLWl4/w640-h426/5fc7f188ad9e8ed5423390c867070531.jpg" width="640" /></span></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: x-small;">The Kunduz AACE from FNSS. Photo credits to Shephard Media.</span></td></tr></tbody></table><span style="font-family: arial;"><br /></span><p><span style="font-family: arial;"><b><a href="https://www.phdefenseresource.com/2019/11/combat-engineering-equipment-mini-mine.html"><span style="color: #2b00fe;">8. Combat Engineering Equipment Lot 7 - Mini Mine Detectors<br /></span></a></b>Another project that has been delayed due to bidding failures. The project was re-tendered in 2020 although it remains to be seen if the tender was successful.<br /><br /><a href="https://www.phdefenseresource.com/2019/11/tank-gunnery-simulator-acquisition.html"><b><span style="color: #2b00fe;">9. Tank Gunnery Simulator<br /></span></b></a>The project was awarded to Singapore's Wolfberry Asia on December 2019, but it appears that no contract has been signed with the DND. This remains a pending project, as MaxDefense previously reported that there were indications the award to Wolfberry Asia was cancelled, and the tender decalred as a failure as of February 2020. <br /><br /><a href="https://www.phdefenseresource.com/2019/11/all-terrain-vehicle-acquisition-project.html"><b><span style="color: #2b00fe;">10. All-Terrain Vehicles:</span></b></a><b><span style="color: #2b00fe;"><br /></span></b>The Philippine Army received the delivery of 15 Can-Am Commander Max all-terrain vehicles on October 2020. So far this is one of the projects of the Philippine Army that was completed this year.<br /><br /><b>11. Army C4ISTAR Lots 1 to 7<br /></b>7 lots of projects related to the Army's C4ISTAR system, including the acquisition of Unmanned Aerial Systems, ground jammers, thermal imagers, radio direction finder systems, combat net MANET radios, and unmanned ground vehicles were contracted to Israeli companies in 2020 under a Government-to-Government deal with the Israeli Ministry of Defense. Production of equipment are all ongoing and for delivery between 2021 and 2022.<br /><br /><br />So far, only 2 projects can be considered completed within year 2020, and these are the Designated Marksman Rifle 7.62mm with the SIG Sauer SIG716G2 which are currently in service with several Philippine Army units; and the All-Terrain Vehicles project with the Can-Am Commander Max ATVs that were already delivered to the Philippine Army for use by special operations units, most likely the Light Reaction Regiment.<br /><br />Other projects that have been continuing negotiations include:<br />* <a href="https://www.phdefenseresource.com/2020/12/m113-apc-firepower-upgrade-of.html"><b><span style="color: #2b00fe;">M113 APC Firepower Upgrade</span></b></a>, which is said to be potentially awarded to Turkey's FNSS; <br />* <b>Combat Engineering Equipment Lots 2, 3, 5, 6 and 8</b> which are almost ready for awarding pending funding allocation; <br />* <b><a href="https://www.phdefenseresource.com/2019/11/land-based-missile-system-acquisition.html"><span style="color: #2b00fe;">Land Based Missile System</span></a></b> which is for final negotiations with India's Brahmos Aerospace, <br />* the still pending <b><a href="https://maxdefense.blogspot.com/2018/05/philippine-army-negotiates-to-acquire.html"><span style="color: #2b00fe;">Multi-Launch Rocket System</span></a></b> donation of K136 Kooryong MLRS from South Korea which the Philippine Army is still trying to comply the conditions set by the South Korean Ministry of National Defense.<br />* <b>Forward Support Equipment Phase 2 Lot 1</b>, which covers the acquisition of two dozens of 10-ton Medium Wrecker Trucks, which the DND confirmed during the Senate hearing on Defense budget for 2021 as planned for inclusion under the Php5 billion Unprogrammed Appropriations.<br />* Negotiations with the US government and some US boat manufacturers are ongoing for the acquisition of <b>Riverine Assault Boats, Scout Boats and Support Boats</b>, which would be acquired through US Foreign Military Sales (US FMS). The US government submitted a proposed sale approval to the US Congress in 2020.<br /><b><u><span style="color: red;"><br /><br />Philippine Air Force:</span></u></b></span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial;">For Horizon 1, the following projects have some significant movement within 2020:<br /><br /><b><a href="https://www.phdefenseresource.com/2020/01/close-air-support-aircraft-horizon-1.html"><span style="color: #2b00fe;">1. Close Air Support Aircraft<br /></span></a></b>One of the biggest projects completed in 2020, the delivery of 6 Embraer A-29B Super Tucano light attack aircraft was completed in late 2020. While the contract includes training of PAF personnel in the Philippines remains to be complied, the delivery is the most important part of the contract.<br /></span></p><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhC00CPuDZutQaeLDrVnjoytPKwHof0GT8cPbcF9GAtct2_C3oaYoMZ2DtjbWCn96js-FA5IovhvHGmZAIDJTangFaPZcw3LXy1jSGwWnhyphenhyphenDntMDwl9kb2O0iRpBxJyYDboKRWFMD_bTi0/s1485/121264258_1386247201545933_3683693728587708456_o.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><span style="font-family: arial;"><img border="0" data-original-height="782" data-original-width="1485" height="338" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhC00CPuDZutQaeLDrVnjoytPKwHof0GT8cPbcF9GAtct2_C3oaYoMZ2DtjbWCn96js-FA5IovhvHGmZAIDJTangFaPZcw3LXy1jSGwWnhyphenhyphenDntMDwl9kb2O0iRpBxJyYDboKRWFMD_bTi0/w640-h338/121264258_1386247201545933_3683693728587708456_o.jpg" width="640" /></span></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: x-small;">Three of the six A-29B Super Tucano light attack aircraft delivered to the PAF in 2020. Photo credits to PAF.</span></td></tr></tbody></table><div><span style="font-family: arial;"><br /></span></div><div><b><span style="font-family: arial;">2. Radar Basing Support System</span></b></div><span style="font-family: arial;">This project is in support of the radars acquired from Israel under the Air Surveillance Radar Phase 1 project. As of 2020, works related to the project are still ongoing, although it is expected to be completed by 2021. The radar stations are located in Gozar Air Station in Lubang Island, the Paredes Air Station in Ilocos Norte, and Mt. Salacot Station in Palawan.<br /><br /><b><a href="https://www.phdefenseresource.com/2019/11/fighter-short-range-air-to-air-missile.html"><span style="color: #2b00fe;">3. Fighter/Surface Attack Aircraft/Lead-in Fighter Trainer Munitions Lots 1 to 3<br /></span></a></b>So far, Lots 1 to 3 appear to still be ongoing, with Lot 1 to supply the AIM-9L/I-1 Sidewinder short range air-to-air missile and Lot 2 to supply the AGM-65G2 Maverick air-to-ground missiles are still pending complete delivery, while Lot 3 to supply countermeasures is still unresolved. Lot 4 involving the supply of 20mm ammunition were already completed at an earlier date.<br /><br /><b>4. Flight Simulator for Bell 412 and AW109<br /></b>After a massive delay on the project due to the cancellation of contract with an American company a few years ago, the PAF and DND decided to give the project another go, with modifications on the project's requirements. But still, the tender was declared a failure as of October 2020, and no further plan was made for 2020.<br /><br /><br />For Horizon 2 projects:<br /></span><p><span style="font-family: arial;"><a href="https://www.phdefenseresource.com/2020/01/air-surveillance-radar-phase-2.html"><b><span style="color: #2b00fe;">1. Air Surveillance Radar Phase 2:<br /></span></b></a>The project has been given to Japan's Mitsubishi Electric Corp. in August 2020 as part of a Government-to-Government deal with the Japanese Ministry of Defense. Delivery is expected to proceed only in late 2021 or 2022. MELCO is expected to deliver the J/FPS-3ME fixed and J/TPS-14ME mobile radars.<br /><br /><a href="https://www.phdefenseresource.com/2020/03/attack-helicopter-horizon-2-acquisition.html"><b><span style="color: #2b00fe;">2. Attack Helicopter Phase 2:<br /></span></b></a>After a long drama due to issues not directly related to the Philippines, the DND has signed a contract with Turkish Aerospace Industries through a Government-to-Government deal with the Turkish government in late 2020. The PAF is still pushing for the delivery of the first batch of helicopters by 2021, although this seems to be a difficult task for TAI considering the political issues and timeframe.<br /></span></p><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhsZfgu9ahLt0oOYIJ2PYR1WJ6EPBDru5XMqS1x1jgGeTH_0v04DZ-NKYLW_JhU2BC3qCYPMdIXjIfZI_t-YC2bWiP8XSSMxRB7NRqFd5yUsetSpSS626OKuoh1WW0Vxm1Kax4NfLgx7nY/s2048/Gt129-index.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><span style="font-family: arial;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1286" data-original-width="2048" height="402" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhsZfgu9ahLt0oOYIJ2PYR1WJ6EPBDru5XMqS1x1jgGeTH_0v04DZ-NKYLW_JhU2BC3qCYPMdIXjIfZI_t-YC2bWiP8XSSMxRB7NRqFd5yUsetSpSS626OKuoh1WW0Vxm1Kax4NfLgx7nY/w640-h402/Gt129-index.jpg" width="640" /></span></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: x-small;">The T129B ATAK attack helicopter. Photo credits to original source.</span></td></tr></tbody></table><div><span style="font-family: arial;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-family: arial;"><a href="https://www.phdefenseresource.com/2020/06/combat-utility-helicopter-phase-3.html"><b><span style="color: #2b00fe;">3. Combat Utility Helicopter Phase 3:<br /></span></b></a>The delivery of 6 new Sikorsky S-70i Black Hawk combat utility helicopters on November 2020 is also another major milestone for the PAF, although this is just a partial delivery considering 10 more are expected for delivery in 2021.</span></div><span style="font-family: arial;"><br /></span><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEje-TUJRMkXab8G6Uf8p1inMFGU01OJ2GUNqEAiLMy7euVZTZ5qkilBvolc7v4HL0jb05apxwS85u7_XPgIVY4AObQGpuC4LbyvpxxvjWJ9x_wpNv-GilwqhznznE0_9b7oNihWIIhLyZQ/s960/130739445_1437769883060331_2148979697717158190_n.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><span style="font-family: arial;"><img border="0" data-original-height="540" data-original-width="960" height="360" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEje-TUJRMkXab8G6Uf8p1inMFGU01OJ2GUNqEAiLMy7euVZTZ5qkilBvolc7v4HL0jb05apxwS85u7_XPgIVY4AObQGpuC4LbyvpxxvjWJ9x_wpNv-GilwqhznznE0_9b7oNihWIIhLyZQ/w640-h360/130739445_1437769883060331_2148979697717158190_n.jpg" width="640" /></span></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: x-small;">Some of the S-70i Black Hawk CUH delivered to PAF in 2020. Photo credits to Inquirer.net.</span></td></tr></tbody></table><div><span style="font-family: arial;"><br /></span></div><div><a href="https://www.phdefenseresource.com/2019/11/gulfstream-g280-command-and-control.html"><b><span style="color: #2b00fe; font-family: arial;">4. Command and Control Jet Aircraft:</span></b></a></div><div><span style="font-family: arial;">The PAF saw the delivery of a Gulfstream G280 business jet, which is said to be for use as a "Command and Control" aircraft despite its obvious use as a VIP jet due to lack of C2 subsystems. The aircraft was delivered on September 2020, which makes this another completed project for 2020.<br /><br /><a href="https://www.phdefenseresource.com/2019/11/the-elbit-hermes-900-male-uas-of.html"><b><span style="color: #2b00fe;">5. Unmanned Aerial Systems Level 3:<br /></span></b></a>The project involves the delivery of the Elbit Systems Hermes 450 and Hermes 900 UAVs to the PAF, which were completed as of mid-2020. This is another project which can be considered completed as of 2020.<br /><br /><a href="https://www.phdefenseresource.com/2020/12/c-130-hercules-with-avionics-upgrade.html"><b><span style="color: #2b00fe;">6. C-130 Hercules with Avionics Upgrade and ILS<br /></span></b></a>A project involving US Foreign Military Financing (US FMF) and US Foreign Military Sales (US FMS) programs, the PAF was suppose to receive 2 refurbished C-130 Hercules from the US, with one of them for delivery by December 2020. So far, no delivery has been reported as of the last day of 2020.<br /><br /><a href="https://www.phdefenseresource.com/2020/01/aviation-engineering-equipment-lots-1.html"><b><span style="color: #2b00fe;">7. PAF Aviation Engineering Equipment<br /></span></b></a>This project comprises 32 individual lots of construction-related equipment and services, with majority of the lots already awarded to respective contractors as of 2020. Several lots were already delivered in 2020 although there are still some that are still unresolved, and other lots are still for delivery by 2021.<br /><br /><a href="https://www.phdefenseresource.com/2020/10/kia-km250-6x6-trucks-acquisition.html"><b><span style="color: #2b00fe;">8. Kia KM-250 6x6 Trucks<br /></span></b></a>Another project completed in 2020, the PAF received 50 new Kia KM-250 trucks from South Korea and inducted into service on October 2020. These trucks will help improve logistics support of the PAF.<br /><br /><b>9. Basing Support System Phases 2 to 4 at Pag-Asa Island:<br /></b>This project is dependent on the completion of the beaching ramp and pier at Pag-asa Island. With both projects completed by the civilian government agencies in 2020, the military-side of the project is expected to proceed only in 2021.<br /><br /><a href="https://maxdefense.blogspot.com/2020/11/discussing-philippine-air-forces-heavy.html"><b><span style="color: #2b00fe;">10. Heavy Lift Helicopters:<br /></span></b></a>An award was said to have been provided to Russia for the supply of Mil Mi-171 Hip medium helicopters. But we received confirmation that CAATSA remains to be an issue, and could even be the reason for the PAF and DND to potentially cancel this in favor of additional S-70i Black Hawk helicopters.</span></div><span style="font-family: arial;"><br /></span><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjCiMuVAV7oPNf47vza9E004ZXqTMwvX21SnO7REbREk5rdBMkYE0m5WHgQznX8o3EcWS0aMUc4FwO5A_KkCnKjJiPJAnpXHhgKyIIkFjIab0-yVdhQv5HTiq2LiDSP55XmqQ11BL21ekE/s753/130735223_1437769903060329_8285412510497609088_n.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><span style="font-family: arial;"><img border="0" data-original-height="407" data-original-width="753" height="346" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjCiMuVAV7oPNf47vza9E004ZXqTMwvX21SnO7REbREk5rdBMkYE0m5WHgQznX8o3EcWS0aMUc4FwO5A_KkCnKjJiPJAnpXHhgKyIIkFjIab0-yVdhQv5HTiq2LiDSP55XmqQ11BL21ekE/w640-h346/130735223_1437769903060329_8285412510497609088_n.jpg" width="640" /></span></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: x-small;">The Mil Mi-171 Hip medium helicopter.</span></td></tr></tbody></table><p><b><span style="font-family: arial;">11. Brand New Additional Transport Aircraft:</span></b></p><p><span style="font-family: arial;">In case you are all wondering, this is the OFFICIAL name of the project involving the acquisition of brand new C-130J-30 Super Hercules transport aircraft. So far, negotiations are ongoing with Lockheed Martin as of 2020, and budget for the initial payment is expected to be released only by 2021.<br /><br /><br />To summarize, the PAF completed 4 projects in 2020, namely the Close Air Support Aircraft, the Command and Control Jet Aircraft, the Unmanned Aerial Systems Level 3 and the Kia KM-250 6x6 Trucks Acquisition Projects. While significant due to the introduction of several new air assets, the number of projects completed remain dismal considering the number of projects ongoing.<br /><br />Other projects that have been in the negotiation stages include:<br />* <a href="https://www.phdefenseresource.com/2020/01/multi-role-fighter-aircraft-horizon-2.html"><b><span style="color: #2b00fe;">Multi-Role Fighter</span></b></a> and Munition System, which has been going through a lot due to conflicts in decision between the PAF and DND, and other factors including price changes and political issues; <br />* <a href="https://www.phdefenseresource.com/2020/06/medium-lift-aircraft-acquisition.html"><b><span style="color: #2b00fe;">Medium Lift Aircraft</span></b></a> which is under negotiations with Airbus-CASA for additional C-295 aircraft;<br />* Trainer Aircraft which is the pre-planning stages and negotiations ongoing with several aircraft manufacturers including KAI, TAI, Aero Vodochody, and others; <br />* <b>PAF C4ISTAR Lots 1 to 4</b> which are in different stages of delivery phase; <br />* <b>Kia KM-450 4x4 Trucks</b> which are expected for delivery to the PAF soon;<br />* <b>Additional Light Lift Aircraft project</b> which is being negotiated with Indonesia's PT Dirgantara Indonesia for the potential sale of 6 NC-212i aircraft.<br />* While negotiations were already completed, the PAF is awaiting the delivery of the <b><a href="https://www.phdefenseresource.com/2020/03/ground-based-air-defense-system-gbads.html"><span style="color: #2b00fe;">Ground Based Air Defense System (GBADS)</span></a></b>, which includes 3 batteries of the Rafael SPYDER-ER short-mid range air defense missile system, which are scheduled for delivery in 2021. Funding for its Multi-Year allocations have been continuous for 2020, and is already approved for its last funding allocation in 2021.<br /><br /></span></p><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjJXHQeqz-BLSj7yKcVY3myOlZIZZje_dIDf5YpdZttsSUxuAsfzaPqH6AeH1oqRoAmJVBRDKVVZ_robuGofakHHlBX0AUlUmV-UlzvBqbMLClYi7RHzYDQE-Y4rGzSQO1Wl_BfHlw_TT4/s2048/Aviano-August-21-2011-OUP113-F-16CM-91-0359-77thFS-20thFW-Shaw-AFB-SC-night-mix.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><span style="font-family: arial;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1365" data-original-width="2048" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjJXHQeqz-BLSj7yKcVY3myOlZIZZje_dIDf5YpdZttsSUxuAsfzaPqH6AeH1oqRoAmJVBRDKVVZ_robuGofakHHlBX0AUlUmV-UlzvBqbMLClYi7RHzYDQE-Y4rGzSQO1Wl_BfHlw_TT4/w640-h426/Aviano-August-21-2011-OUP113-F-16CM-91-0359-77thFS-20thFW-Shaw-AFB-SC-night-mix.jpg" width="640" /></span></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: x-small;">An F-16 fighter of the USAF. Photo credits to Fightersweep.com.</span></td></tr></tbody></table><span style="font-family: arial;"><br /></span><p><b><u><span style="color: red; font-family: arial;">Philippine Navy (including Philippine Marine Corps):</span></u></b></p><p><span style="font-family: arial;">For Horizon 1, the following projects have some significant movement within 2020:<br /><br /><a href="https://www.phdefenseresource.com/2019/11/the-hyundai-hdf-2600-jose-rizal-class.html"><b><span style="color: #2b00fe;">1. Frigates Lot 1 - Platform<br /></span></b></a>The Philippine Navy received its first <i>Jose Rizal</i>-class frigate on May 2020, and was commissioned as BRP <i>Jose Rizal</i> (FF-150) on June 2020. Delays were encountered on the delivery of the 2nd ship, which was suppose to be for delivery by 4th quarter of 2020, but was moved to 1st quarter of 2021.<br /></span></p><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhviKcaFK-Yqru8eQH5yfi9TIiuI1iTDl-UjthCFREeNzRHy8GxBdHf4HzLfpLfK3euB79gqN_XJkzbMgr9qMSLFdryP4ZoEc0mI4YrLQ4JA8lMZ2J4QTBqyeZU0ihPyU_HM0jMkLPBNCI/s1734/131642707_3595168410505497_149675756029888790_o.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><span style="font-family: arial;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1080" data-original-width="1734" height="398" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhviKcaFK-Yqru8eQH5yfi9TIiuI1iTDl-UjthCFREeNzRHy8GxBdHf4HzLfpLfK3euB79gqN_XJkzbMgr9qMSLFdryP4ZoEc0mI4YrLQ4JA8lMZ2J4QTBqyeZU0ihPyU_HM0jMkLPBNCI/w640-h398/131642707_3595168410505497_149675756029888790_o.jpg" width="640" /></span></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: x-small;">The PN frigate BRP <i>Jose Rizal</i> with three of the recently delivered S-70i Black Hawk combat utility helicopters of the PAF. Credits to original source of photo.</span></td></tr></tbody></table><p><span style="font-family: arial;"><a href="https://www.phdefenseresource.com/2020/12/frigate-lot-2a-anti-ship-missiles.html"><b><span style="color: #2b00fe;">2. Frigates Lot 2 - Munitions:<br /></span></b></a>The partial delivery of Mistral short range surface-to-air missiles were made in 2020, and these already equip the BRP <i>Jose Rizal</i>, although full delivery is expected to be completed only by October 2021. The contract for the supply of SSM-700K C-Star anti-ship missiles was made in 2020, and delivery is expected only by 2022. We received confirmation as well that the 76mm ammunition were already delivered to the PN in 2020, and the same is true for the 30mm ammunition for the ship's guns.<br /><br /><a href="https://www.phdefenseresource.com/2020/01/bases-support-and-logistics-system.html"><b><span style="color: #2b00fe;">3. Base Support and Logistics Phase 1 for Naval Base Rafael Ramos (Cebu):<br /></span></b></a>Works appear to be ongoing on the construction of Phase 1 at Naval Base Rafael Ramos in Cebu, although we are not familiar with the percentage completion of the construction project works.<br /><br /><a href="https://www.phdefenseresource.com/2020/09/fast-boats-acquisition-project-of.html"><b><span style="color: #2b00fe;">4. Fast Boats for NAVSOCOM:<br /></span></b></a>The Philippine Navy received a partial delivery of 7 new RHIBs as part of the project in 2020, with 3 other units expected to be delivered by 2021. These boats are to be used by the Boat Unit of the Naval Special Operations Command.<br /><br /><br />For Horizon 2 Phase:<br /><br /><a href="https://www.phdefenseresource.com/2019/11/landing-docks-acquisition-project-of.html"><b><span style="color: #2b00fe;">1. Landing Docks:<br /></span></b></a>The project has been tendered in 2019, and although post-qualification inspections were made in 2020, the DND and PN has not made a decision yet to award the project to Indonesia's PT PAL (Persero), which offered a revised and improved version of the Tarlac-class Landing Platform Dock. Two ships are for acquisition under this project.<br /><br /><a href="https://www.phdefenseresource.com/2020/01/del-pilar-class-frigate-upgrade-project.html"><b><span style="color: #2b00fe;">2. <i>Del Pilar</i>-class (Frigate) Upgrade:<br /></span></b></a>Despite Hanwha Systems bagging the project in 2019, nothing much has been made in 2020. Hanwha is scheduled to inspect all 3 ships of the class by early 2021, with inspection dates already marked and provided to MaxDefense. The upgrades only involves sensors and combat systems, but no weapon upgrades.<br /></span></p><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgEq7zC5fGRScQfDAR1WFCXrA3I7F_JSmbD90BZSjp5wXxAGie3YHffuPMbKoiKomzyjRzz0JMKLupA2QSG06EkKRowErJOLv3-BpSKPCJdaK2Doz3Am4plIJ-5Nj7_Rrtnzu0I5HscZ6w/s1600/131462186_1442292732608046_5405001550538072041_o.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><span style="font-family: arial;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgEq7zC5fGRScQfDAR1WFCXrA3I7F_JSmbD90BZSjp5wXxAGie3YHffuPMbKoiKomzyjRzz0JMKLupA2QSG06EkKRowErJOLv3-BpSKPCJdaK2Doz3Am4plIJ-5Nj7_Rrtnzu0I5HscZ6w/w640-h480/131462186_1442292732608046_5405001550538072041_o.jpg" width="640" /></span></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: x-small;">The BRP <i>Ramon Alcaraz</i> (PS-16), a <i>Del Pilar</i>-class ship of the PN. Photo credits to PN.</span></td></tr></tbody></table><span style="font-family: arial;"><br /></span><div><b><span style="font-family: arial;">3. Marine Engineering Upgrades for BRP <i>Artemio Ricarte </i>(PS-37):</span></b></div><div><span style="font-family: arial;">Another long delayed project that has been passed to the Horizon 2 phase after failing to start during the Horizon 1 phase. So far, drydocking works has been awarded to Herma Shipyard on January 2020, although it remains to be seen if the actual repowering works are included in their contract.<br /><br /><a href="https://www.phdefenseresource.com/2019/11/mpac-batch-4-combat-system-and.html"><b><span style="color: #2b00fe;">4. MPAC (Batch 4) Combat Systems and Capability Upgrade:<br /></span></b></a>This project, which comprises 2 lots for the supply of weapon systems by Rafael Advance Systems and installation works by Propmech Corporation, has been delayed for a year, considering the original schedule of delivery and installation of these weapon systems and upgrades were suppose to have been done by 2020. The delivery of weapon systems were moved to 2021.<br /><br /><a href="https://www.phdefenseresource.com/2019/11/squad-rocket-launcher-light-acquisition.html"><b><span style="color: #2b00fe;">5. Squad Rocket Launcher Light:<br /></span></b></a>A requirement for 702 units of RPG-7s from Bulgaria's Arsenal JSCo has been finalized in 2020, although delivery is only expected to be made by 2021. These RPGs will be used by the Philippine Marines, as they start improving squad firepower and replacing older recoilless rifles.<br /><br /><a href="https://www.phdefenseresource.com/2019/11/force-protection-equipment-body-armor.html"><b><span style="color: #2b00fe;">6. Force Protection Equipment (Helmets and Body Armor):<br /></span></b></a>Israel's Marom Dolphin Tactical Equipment bagged the project, and was awarded the project on August 2020. So far, no indication was found on a contract signed with DND, which means this is still potentially another pending project. The project involves the supply of 8,860 sets of body armor vests and helmets for the Philippine Marine Corps.<br /><br /><a href="https://www.phdefenseresource.com/2019/11/mortar-acquisition-project-lot-2-81mm.html"><b><span style="color: #2b00fe;">7. Mortars Lot 2 - 81mm Mortars:<br /></span></b></a>Another project that seems to be pending, we expected a contract to be signed with EXPAL Systems by early 2020, but this remains to be confirmed. The project was awarded to EXPAL in late 2019, which aims to supply <br /><br /><a href="https://www.phdefenseresource.com/2019/11/fast-attack-interdiction-craft-missile.html"><b><span style="color: #2b00fe;">8. Fast Attack Interdiction Craft with Missiles:<br /></span></b></a>The project is also considered a delayed one, with the funding for the project only released on December 2020. This means an award for the project, which is expected to be for Israeli Shipyards Ltd, is only expected to happen in 2021. The PN hopes to receive the first Shaldag Mk. V fast attack craft by 2022.</span></div><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjzYR0DCz3gnAAnNBMenFuTm10igTWtqFUBY1-b8dj9NjngCfMCdnpTBPu7bYurEhjox3024NW0U76E28d84drhsQ35dw5Er_FaF9d-K00HV3rPXTSgEFPvwa08v9OLmtxUjbUJSt2vq04/s800/naval-shaldagmk5.png" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><span style="font-family: arial;"><img border="0" data-original-height="400" data-original-width="800" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjzYR0DCz3gnAAnNBMenFuTm10igTWtqFUBY1-b8dj9NjngCfMCdnpTBPu7bYurEhjox3024NW0U76E28d84drhsQ35dw5Er_FaF9d-K00HV3rPXTSgEFPvwa08v9OLmtxUjbUJSt2vq04/w640-h320/naval-shaldagmk5.png" width="640" /></span></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: x-small;">A CGI of the Shaldag Mk. V FAC which the PN is currently negotiating. Photo credits to Israel Shipyards.</span></td></tr></tbody></table><span style="font-family: arial;"><br /></span><div><span style="font-family: arial;">To summarize, the PN has not completed any RAFPMP project in 2020, despite several projects reaching major milestones and partial delivery and completion. This is dismal considering the number of projects ongoing, even if many projects take years to complete.<br /><br />But to give credit, the PN received 8 new ScanEagle 2 UAVs from the US government, which is a major milestone for the service as it received its first fixed wing tactical UAV. Despite not being part of the PN's own modernization program, this is still an important accomplishment in 2020.<br /><br /></span></div><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhm3w3mmrrzaMaRQgiiEnjBRQh_PfyseGUovvsI_mNrgWnbVEn6oG4aYDFNSqj5KjRXnKaZnYkya7B_UG57L7PeryA9dEmYKTbcTeAhBksmzQF5NrEdik0vI9wFX6ib87yDUUpJeZd2Mxo/s960/126807010_1425891107581542_737843941795438687_n.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><span style="font-family: arial;"><img border="0" data-original-height="638" data-original-width="960" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhm3w3mmrrzaMaRQgiiEnjBRQh_PfyseGUovvsI_mNrgWnbVEn6oG4aYDFNSqj5KjRXnKaZnYkya7B_UG57L7PeryA9dEmYKTbcTeAhBksmzQF5NrEdik0vI9wFX6ib87yDUUpJeZd2Mxo/w640-h426/126807010_1425891107581542_737843941795438687_n.jpg" width="640" /></span></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: x-small;">A ScanEagle 2 UAV of the PN. Photo credits to PN.</span></td></tr></tbody></table><span style="font-family: arial;"><br /></span><div><span style="font-family: arial;">Other projects that have been in the negotiation stages include:</span></div><div><span style="font-family: arial;">* <a href="https://www.phdefenseresource.com/2019/11/corvette-acquisition-project-lots-1-and.html"><b><span style="color: #2b00fe;">Corvette project</span></b></a> which is said to be undergoing final negotiations with South Korea's Hyundai Heavy Industries for a potential Jose Rizal-class Flight II;<br />* <a href="https://www.phdefenseresource.com/2020/01/offshore-patrol-vessel-acquisition.html"><b><span style="color: #2b00fe;">Offshore Patrol Vessel project</span></b></a>, which is still under negotiations with other shipbuilders from South Korea and Thailand despite an earlier selection of Australia's Austal, specifically its local shipyard in Cebu, to be the shipbuilder and supplier for the project.<br />* <a href="https://maxdefense.blogspot.com/2018/07/is-philippine-navy-ready-for-submarines.html"><b><span style="color: #2b00fe;">Submarine project </span></b></a>which is under intense negotiations with France's Naval Group and South Korea's Daewoo Shipbuilding & Marine Engineering;<br />* <a href="https://www.phdefenseresource.com/2020/06/shore-based-anti-ship-missile-system.html"><b><span style="color: #2b00fe;">Shore Based Anti-Ship Missile System</span></b></a>, which is also being negotiated with India's Brahmos Aerospace, although other offers from other countries are still being pushed;<br />* <a href="https://www.phdefenseresource.com/2019/12/shore-based-air-defense-missile-system.html"><b><span style="color: #2b00fe;">Shore Based Air Defense Missile System</span></b></a>, which is still in advanced pre-procurement and negotiation stage with several suppliers from South Korea, India, Norway, and others.<br />* <b>Frigate Project Lot 3</b>, which involves the supply of torpedoes, chaffs, and acoustic decoy for the Jose Rizal-class frigates. The chaffs and acoustic decoys are currently in the procurement phase through public bidding, which is expected to be opened on January 2021, while the torpedoes are to be acquired through direct negotiation with South Korea's LIGNex1 for their Blue Shark torpedoes.<br /><br /></span></div><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjJzy1cboTRxZy4jor2GLXh2hWDfJfaKY8hLnzMUAS5npykSIcjnvfGK7W27TFmEHvONUNMECpeq6Tsett6bB1LbBhaMxquV9acK6q7kIsQCKlhWM4iwAqh6jRsxLj_ypArLT7hWdH1q60/s1200/PN+OPV+Hero+Image+for+Webpage-01+%25281%2529.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><span style="font-family: arial;"><img border="0" data-original-height="630" data-original-width="1200" height="336" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjJzy1cboTRxZy4jor2GLXh2hWDfJfaKY8hLnzMUAS5npykSIcjnvfGK7W27TFmEHvONUNMECpeq6Tsett6bB1LbBhaMxquV9acK6q7kIsQCKlhWM4iwAqh6jRsxLj_ypArLT7hWdH1q60/w640-h336/PN+OPV+Hero+Image+for+Webpage-01+%25281%2529.jpg" width="640" /></span></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: x-small;">The OPV design for the PN from Austal. Photo credits to Austal.</span></td></tr></tbody></table><span style="font-family: arial;"><br /></span><div><span style="font-family: arial;"><br /><b><u><span style="color: red;">Our Hopes for 2021:</span></u></b></span></div><div><span style="font-family: arial;"><br />With the list above, we can say that 2021 appears to be a busy year for the Armed Forces of the Philippines and its modernization programs. Even as early as January 2021, we can already see some new deliveries and project finalizations to happen.<br /><br />We at MaxDefense Philippines and Philippine Defense Resource are hopeful that the government under the administration of Pres. Rodrigo Duterte will do its best to make sure the AFP's modernization goes on smoothly, cleanly, and without interference from questionable personalities from the administration.<br /><br />We hope that they come to their senses and put the interests of the Philippines and the Filipino people first before their own personal interests.</span></div><div><span style="font-family: arial;"><br /></span></div><div><b><u><span style="color: red; font-family: arial;">HAPPY NEW YEAR to all our readers, contributors, supporters and friends! We hope to have your continuous and strong support for 2021!!</span></u></b></div><div><span style="font-family: arial;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-family: arial;"><span face=""arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif">===============</span><br /><span face=""arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif">===============</span><span face=""arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif"><br /></span><span face=""arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif">First release: 31 December 2020</span><br /><span face=""arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif">Copyright MaxDefense Philippines</span><br /></span><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiYWXCNgEKjy9PvhyXm0jmw-UnztULhhX9_GTnNx_JypEfRUOe07Cmiy5RovWdombNpNjDgXqOLGsfr3ebf42GCzvvv9mgDCJupEGN2BfPWB07rMXH1PWyeHsOmXJDQ-oAMnohCrulGckI/s1600/20160919_073729.jpg" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: arial;"><img border="0" data-original-height="227" data-original-width="961" height="75" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiYWXCNgEKjy9PvhyXm0jmw-UnztULhhX9_GTnNx_JypEfRUOe07Cmiy5RovWdombNpNjDgXqOLGsfr3ebf42GCzvvv9mgDCJupEGN2BfPWB07rMXH1PWyeHsOmXJDQ-oAMnohCrulGckI/s320/20160919_073729.jpg" width="320" /></span></a><div><br /></div></div></div>max monterohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16217644456257635987noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3838050795464426329.post-58938095488966021132020-12-23T23:49:00.011+11:002020-12-24T01:41:35.383+11:00Is Italy's Leonardo involved in engine supply for T129B Attack Helicopters for the Philippine Air Force?<p><span style="font-family: arial;"> </span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial;">Previous posts we made confirmed that the Department of National Defense (DND) already released the Notice of Award (NOA) for the Philippine Air Force's Attack Helicopter Acquisition Project in favor of Turkey's Turkish Aerospace Industries (TAI), and has </span><a href="https://www.facebook.com/MaxDefense/posts/1372605386243448" style="font-family: arial;"><span style="color: #2b00fe;"><b>signed the contract with TAI a few months ago</b></span></a><span style="font-family: arial;">.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial;">This was after TAI, which offered its T129B ATAK attack helicopter, was selected by the PAF for the project, and the DND's Bids and Awards Committee finding TAI and the T129B ATAK meeting all requirements it submitted as part of the tender.<br /></span></p><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEikolC0tf40498sUdCFbtzDeEbCxcymAAsWybP3VOKsamitUSnXJoa2cyGXRrhI6dZYi6VpsOOjwxgA1Jx8_yr7UXpa_3qjrbtvviJflq_vzBbz8bpV-qt9PtFg2A1-mYaQDc0b2TUSjS0/s753/xjng5qd3cwa51.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><span style="font-family: arial;"><img border="0" data-original-height="407" data-original-width="753" height="346" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEikolC0tf40498sUdCFbtzDeEbCxcymAAsWybP3VOKsamitUSnXJoa2cyGXRrhI6dZYi6VpsOOjwxgA1Jx8_yr7UXpa_3qjrbtvviJflq_vzBbz8bpV-qt9PtFg2A1-mYaQDc0b2TUSjS0/w640-h346/xjng5qd3cwa51.jpg" width="640" /></span></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: x-small;">The TAI T129B ATAK attack helicopter, which is contracted for delivery to the Philippine Air Force. Photo credited to Reddit.</span></td></tr></tbody></table><span style="font-family: arial;"><br /></span><p><span style="font-family: arial;">But due to issues surrounding Turkey's ability to have a steady supply of US-made engines, specifically the LHTEC CTS800 turboshaft engines, due to Countering America's Adversaries Through Sanctions Act (CAATSA) being potentially imposed on Turkey, the DND delayed the project's contract signing with TAI. And even when the contract was signed, the DND held the release of the Notice to Proceed (NTP) for sometime.<br /><br /><b><u><span style="color: red;">CAATSA Against Turkey:<br /></span></u></b><br />According to MaxDefense's military, defense and industry sources, as well as sources from the US, all confirmed that Turkey was indeed affected by the declining relations with the US, and has failed to get the export license for the supply of LHTEC CTS800 turboshaft engines powering the T129B ATAK attack helicopters.<br /><br /></span></p><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi7sL8dyZpDrDX0OnH7Y8PmC1ItkeCPv4_okKw6cOBVPJzFSlPubbHFbDjtvkjbQMc8iSOoOlDImpkVRkM9qs2t3srpOaiXL17MsHEbU3AvNdYvGVkpDw8xHoWuIsZJoIRPjPYv4A1XK9E/s650/CTS800_engine-600x650.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><span style="font-family: arial;"><img border="0" data-original-height="650" data-original-width="600" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi7sL8dyZpDrDX0OnH7Y8PmC1ItkeCPv4_okKw6cOBVPJzFSlPubbHFbDjtvkjbQMc8iSOoOlDImpkVRkM9qs2t3srpOaiXL17MsHEbU3AvNdYvGVkpDw8xHoWuIsZJoIRPjPYv4A1XK9E/w369-h400/CTS800_engine-600x650.jpg" width="369" /></span></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: x-small;">The LHTEC CTS800 turboshaft engine, the main issue of TAI's problems to supply the T129 attack helicopter to the Philippines. Photo credited to Honeywell Aerospace.</span></td></tr></tbody></table><span style="font-family: arial;"><br />The ban, which was said to have been set in early 2020, jeopardized TAI's export of the T129B ATAK, in addition to its existing contract to supply 30 units to the Pakistani Army, and a potential to sealing a deal with the Philippines DND to supply 6 units plus follow-on orders for the Philippine Air Force.<br /><br />Without the engines, it would be impossible for Turkey to close its deals, and secure further export orders in the global market.<br /><br />Further information shares to us by American sources confirmed that in early 2020, the DND was urged to talk to the US Embassy and to Joint US Military Advisory Group - Philippines (JUSMAG Philippines) to confirm the US government's export license rejection. But for some reason, the DND did not make an official enquiry, which could have allowed the US government to provide a formal reply and explain the situation to the DND.<br /><br /></span><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi92OHJXzgpbGbbBgym6okGKFhHAF5L6iawYSuVO1CXtxRT0czzGzDWWn-QL9OYsFuXoIl1znigBwl06jfH9wlyON8qfE-2fY26qDW2Xfx_0FQG1_EJpxXcM30BIzvkqIuvW56VNyAfbvE/s1024/triumf-surface-to-air-missile-systems-as-an-anti-aircraft-news-photo-1066354318-1550597610.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><span style="font-family: arial;"><img border="0" data-original-height="635" data-original-width="1024" height="394" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi92OHJXzgpbGbbBgym6okGKFhHAF5L6iawYSuVO1CXtxRT0czzGzDWWn-QL9OYsFuXoIl1znigBwl06jfH9wlyON8qfE-2fY26qDW2Xfx_0FQG1_EJpxXcM30BIzvkqIuvW56VNyAfbvE/w640-h394/triumf-surface-to-air-missile-systems-as-an-anti-aircraft-news-photo-1066354318-1550597610.jpg" width="640" /></span></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: x-small;">Turkey's insistence to procure the Russian S-400 long range air defense system (above), plus its activities in Syria and Armenia may have contributed to the rejection of export license of the LHTEC engines. Photo credits to Popular Mechanics.</span></td></tr></tbody></table><span style="font-family: arial;"><br /></span><div><b><u><span style="color: red; font-family: arial;">The Waiting Game:</span></u></b></div><div><span style="font-family: arial;"><br />Between the time the NOA for the PAF's Attack Helicopter Acquisition Project was released to TAI up until mid 2020, the DND was said to be in continuous talks with TAI and the Turkish government regarding the issue of the helicopter engines and avionics availability, despite a contract already signed between the 2 parties.<br /><br />Before the contract was signed between the DND and TAI, the PAF was getting ready for a possible cancellation of the NOA with TAI, and it made a re-evaluation of the project which resulted to the selection of an American-made helicopter as a possible replacement to the T129B ATAK.<br /><br /></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgwHDR-Vw6BcrQWV4x8SU0oHz3lZXGFUHzeyOnKJrIhW1o9WuXbPo5I44GpirjQfAylorlKN6HGG0u-54D0bZ2MXNcaxLSUFuCUcnBhKmQz8dEW0doqzu2UKmq4BpIrJyDvSzQD_SyPz-o/s480/69729_usmarinecorpsah1zcusmc_198735.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: arial;"><img border="0" data-original-height="320" data-original-width="480" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgwHDR-Vw6BcrQWV4x8SU0oHz3lZXGFUHzeyOnKJrIhW1o9WuXbPo5I44GpirjQfAylorlKN6HGG0u-54D0bZ2MXNcaxLSUFuCUcnBhKmQz8dEW0doqzu2UKmq4BpIrJyDvSzQD_SyPz-o/w640-h426/69729_usmarinecorpsah1zcusmc_198735.jpg" width="640" /></span></a></div><span style="font-family: arial;"><br /></span><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiQ_iwotzQBXGsGH8W50Iae0pI_WS7ljdVK1Smt4gMl2qJWFeAvPSqM6Yku40T-zuxasTFxJ3LfDhZaXRBrfWIwEv2VvZS7qvtDQvwBugHhg7yLtavtegXMlnqy0_Hb0QNv0eq_sglgfuY/s960/t_d16eb2e934064ed387d27be534f7dc70_name_still_b1_armed_blackhawk.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><span style="font-family: arial;"><img border="0" data-original-height="540" data-original-width="960" height="360" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiQ_iwotzQBXGsGH8W50Iae0pI_WS7ljdVK1Smt4gMl2qJWFeAvPSqM6Yku40T-zuxasTFxJ3LfDhZaXRBrfWIwEv2VvZS7qvtDQvwBugHhg7yLtavtegXMlnqy0_Hb0QNv0eq_sglgfuY/w640-h360/t_d16eb2e934064ed387d27be534f7dc70_name_still_b1_armed_blackhawk.jpg" width="640" /></span></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: x-small;">Among those reconsidered were the Bell AH-1Z Viper (top) and the Sikorsky S-70i Armed Black Hawk (above). Photos credits to Flight Global and Defense News.</span></td></tr></tbody></table><span style="font-family: arial;"><br /></span><div><span style="font-family: arial;">For some reason, the DND decided to continue negotiations with TAI, despite the growing list of reasons for the US government to reject its export of the LHTEC engines to Turkey, and even further imposing more sanctions against Turkey. Apparently, Turkey gave a guarantee to the DND that they can supply the helicopters with the complete engines and avionics, which was the reason why the DND continued with signing a contract with TAI.</span></div><div><span style="font-family: arial;"><br />A few months ago, we received confirmation from DND sources that Turkey negotiated with the DND on the Notice to Proceed (NTP). Apparently, TAI was pushing for the release of the Notice to Proceed (NTP) to be put on-hold. This is to allow TAI enough time to secure the LHTEC engines, and delay the start of production of the helicopters and the delivery date as this would be based on the date the NTP was released by TAI.<br /><br />This is unfair to the Philippine side, since Turkey securing the LHTEC engines may take years considering its poor situation with the US government. If TAI never get to secure the engines, it means they are not liable for late deliveries should the Philippines agree to such arrangements.<br /><br /><b><u><span style="color: red;">Use of Turkish Engines Not an Option:<br /></span></u></b><br />Despite Turkey developing a new indigenous turbine engine to power locally-made helicopters like the T129 ATAK and the T625 Gokbey helicopters, Turkey itself confirmed that development and testing of the engines are still ongoing, and it will take a few years for the engine to reach serial production, most likely by 2024 at earliest.<br /><br />MaxDefense also mentioned before that testing, type certification of the T129 powered by the new engine, and other processes will take years, and it would be too late for the PAF and DND if it waiting for the local engine to be used on the T129 attack helicopter.<br /><br />Even within the PAF and DND, it appears that the use of unproven Turkish engines are out of the question, as a major subsystem like an engine will need to meet the Philippines' legal government procurement and AFP modernization acquisition requirements that requires it to be a proven product.<br /><br />The PAF being made as a guinea pig is definitely not acceptable.<br /></span></div><div><span style="font-family: arial;"><br /></span></div><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj28VM1yO1fIa2fVQXh0M55srIyyyM7917gglmE-F_VAe4_X736qFr1ioOBlvSTTmKOmL1epU7b3jbxpcjX2eY9tC418x9BimXWJY1Ee2GC1YJNaiJ-dHLeaRfKzX8o-puuqei9ay-wnEg/s962/5e30911f4328a.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><span style="font-family: arial;"><img border="0" data-original-height="476" data-original-width="962" height="314" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj28VM1yO1fIa2fVQXh0M55srIyyyM7917gglmE-F_VAe4_X736qFr1ioOBlvSTTmKOmL1epU7b3jbxpcjX2eY9tC418x9BimXWJY1Ee2GC1YJNaiJ-dHLeaRfKzX8o-puuqei9ay-wnEg/w640-h314/5e30911f4328a.jpg" width="640" /></span></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: x-small;">The TEI TS1400 turboshaft engine from Turkey is still far from production, and is still an unproven product even by then. Photo credits to Defense Turkey Magazine.</span></td></tr></tbody></table><span style="font-family: arial;"><br /></span><div><u><span style="color: red; font-family: arial;"><b>Turkey Provides Guarantee to Supply Complete Helicopter:</b></span></u></div><div><p><span style="font-family: arial;">Recenty, our sources confirmed that the DND has recently released the 15% initial payment for the Attack Helicopter Acquisition Project, which means that the DND already has released the NTP for the project. Thus, it means that TAI is now legally liable for the delivery of the helicopters for the PAF.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial;">This also means that the DND has accepted the guarantee from TAI and the Turkish government that they can supply the T129B ATAK attack helicopters with the needed engines and avionics, and provide support, spares and logistics needs for the aircraft.<br /><br />So how did Turkey get a secure source of LHTEC engines for the Philippine T129Bs?<br /><br />According to our sources, the engines would be supplied through TAI's Italian partner on the T129 program, defense conglomerate Leonardo.<br /></span></p><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi0aX9tYvMO46oFgKVnxs0B2m7njwdTMQjyeJbP_creAzIKuAx5ivOf2Bu0h5wi8hyvA4ELsGKFnczyIjsVOuR54o_Bo0VNrgAN5x78pNOPN2IV8fnckx5n12kWjx5HmaJGIf0kNXXLU4g/s2048/88690e53bc19bd4fced5632c541872a8.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><span style="font-family: arial;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1386" data-original-width="2048" height="432" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi0aX9tYvMO46oFgKVnxs0B2m7njwdTMQjyeJbP_creAzIKuAx5ivOf2Bu0h5wi8hyvA4ELsGKFnczyIjsVOuR54o_Bo0VNrgAN5x78pNOPN2IV8fnckx5n12kWjx5HmaJGIf0kNXXLU4g/w640-h432/88690e53bc19bd4fced5632c541872a8.jpg" width="640" /></span></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: x-small;">The A129 Mangusta attack helicopter, which is the basis of the T129 ATAK attack helicopter. This example is with the Italian Army. Photo credits to Airliners.net.</span></td></tr></tbody></table><div><span style="font-family: arial;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-family: arial;">For those who are unfamiliar, the T129 ATAK was actually based on the Agusta A129 Mangusta (Mongoose), which is now a legacy product of Leonardo. The T129 is essentially an A129 helicopter but was modernized and improved by TAI, while using a large percentage of Turkish subsystems and parts, and integration with Turkish-developed munitions. The A129 uses the less powerful and older Rolls Royce Gem 2-1004D engines.<br /><br />Also, Leonardo has good experience with the LHTEC CTS800 turbine engine as it also powers the AgustaWestland AW159 Wildcat naval helicopters. And to make things better for TAI, Leonardo is supporting the CTS800 engines found on the AW159 Wildcat helicopters of the Philippine Navy.</span></div><div><span style="font-family: arial;"><br /></span></div><span style="font-family: arial;"><br /></span><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjW8Pwlq4hsFGkDDEFqvXpjETnzn_q_zWirj8ZK_WUSP8E53ThWToLDuCxfKg2jlLB9tui_nwrSKZfWmxNex2Ds70k3cufOgELK2ZAELeIScROIZWj_UMQ-SIW8rNeMdqtaE-LXJrClKvg/s853/60027552_448405819247029_1183047096710725632_n.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><span style="font-family: arial;"><img border="0" data-original-height="480" data-original-width="853" height="360" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjW8Pwlq4hsFGkDDEFqvXpjETnzn_q_zWirj8ZK_WUSP8E53ThWToLDuCxfKg2jlLB9tui_nwrSKZfWmxNex2Ds70k3cufOgELK2ZAELeIScROIZWj_UMQ-SIW8rNeMdqtaE-LXJrClKvg/w640-h360/60027552_448405819247029_1183047096710725632_n.jpg" width="640" /></span></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: x-small;">Leonardo has partners in the Philippines that can do the engine installations on the T129B ATAK on behalf of TAI. Photo credited to Scramble Magazine.</span></td></tr></tbody></table><p><b><u><span style="color: red; font-family: arial;"><br />Potential Arrangements:</span></u></b></p><p><span style="font-family: arial;">So, with Leonardo in charge of engine supply, it means that TAI will still be in charge of supplying the complete helicopters being the main contractor for the project. But the process might be different in this case.<br /><br />It is highly possible that TAI will start building the helicopters, and will receive the engines from Leonardo. But while the helicopters might be completed in Turkey, there is also a chance that the helicopters might be delivered to the Philippines without the engines, and that the engines will be installed, integrated and tested in the Philippines.<br /><br />If that happens, Leonardo might be doing the engine integration on behalf of TAI since Leonardo already has partners in the Philippines who can do the engine installation and integration works.<br /><br />If such arrangement happens, the flight tests would also be done in the Philippines, and so is the pre-delivery inspection and acceptance by the DND and PAF's Technical Inspection and Acceptance Committee (TIAC) and Project Management Team (PMT).<br /><b><u><span style="color: red;"><br />Risks and Potential Problems:</span></u></b></span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial;">MaxDefense Philippines believes that while this is possible, this could be a risky undertaking by both TAI and the DND, since Leonardo may encounter problems of its own in obtaining the LHTEC engines, especially if the US government takes notice of the arrangement. It is very obvious that TAI is using Leonardo as a proxy, and the US government may still impose export license restrictions.<br /><br />Should Leonardo fail to get the engines, it means delays in the Attack Helicopter Acquisition Project, since time spent on dealing with TAI would be worthless, and getting back the payment could be a sore legal issue that could take time to settle.<br /><br />Also, should TAI be successful in delivering the T129B attack helicopters completely in any arrangement, there is still the risk of TAI possibly failing to provide proper support for the helicopters especially with regards to the engines and select avionics affected by the US export ban.<br /><br />In foresight, even if TAI succeeds in delivering the 6 T129B attack helicopters to the PAF, there is also a chance that it could encounter issues in the future if the PAF decides to do a follow-on order, considering the situation between Turkey and the US remains tense even with a new leadership in the US government under President-elect Joe Biden in power by 2021.<br /><br />Alternatively, the DND could have just gone with better options rather than take a risk that could be detrimental to Philippine interests and security plans.<br /><br /><b><u><span face=""arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif" style="color: red;">Project Summary:</span></u></b><br /><span face=""arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif"><br /></span><span face=""arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif"><b><u>Attack Helicopter (Horizon 2)Acquisition Project:</u></b></span><br /><span face=""arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif"><span face=""arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif"><b><u><br /></u></b><i>Note: Edited as of 23 December 2020.</i><br /><b><u><br /></u></b></span><span face=""arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif"><b>* End User:</b> Philippine Air Force (15th Strike Wing)<br /><br />* <b>Quantity:</b> 6 units</span></span><br /><span face=""arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif"><b><br />* Modernization Phase:</b> Horizon 2 Phase of RAFPMP</span><br /><span face=""arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif"><span face=""arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif"><b><br />* Project ABC:</b> Php13,800,000,000.00</span><span face=""arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif"><br /><br />* </span><b>Acquisition Mode</b><span face=""arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif">: Government-to-Government deal with Turkish Ministry of Defense.<br /><br /><b>* Source of Funding:</b> GAA Funds through AFP Modernization Program Trust Fund, to be paid via Multi-Year Obligation Authority (MYOA) process.</span></span><br /><span face=""arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif"><b><br />* SARO Release/s: </b>TBA</span><br /><span face=""arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif"><b><br /></b><b>* Winning Proponent:</b><span face=""arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif"> Turkish Aerospace Industries</span></span><br /><span face=""arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif"><br />* <b>Product for Delivery: </b>starting late 2021, complete by 2022.</span><br /><span face=""arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif"><br /><b>* Contract Price:</b> TBA</span><br /><span face=""arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif"><b><br /></b><b>* First post by MaxDefense: </b><span face=""arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif">TBA</span></span><br /><span face=""arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif"><b><br /></b><b>* MaxDefense Searching Hashtag:</b><span face=""arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif"> #PAFAHAcquisition #PAFAHPhase2Acquisition</span></span><br /><span face=""arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif"><span face=""arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif"><b><br /></b></span><span face=""arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif"><b>* Status:</b> TWG selected TAI T129 ATAK as basis for the Attack Helicopter project in 2018. Despite re-evaluation made in 2019 after Turkey had problems obtaining US and EU-sourced subsystems, NOA awarded to Turkish Aerospace Industries although PAF is looking at alternatives to the T129. Contract signed with TAI in 3rd quarter 2020, NTP and initial funding released as of November 2020.</span></span><br /><span face=""arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif"><br /></span></span></p><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh77lTTgBvq7VPwWC9e5bDb_mGgXT3Lpl9Hiuoe9kt-0kaqIFWo1AtN4ZUULnQ3rmMMp_hlFCuA4mcsTjGTzy1khGbxbOokRmmW96cr4y5WMq4d2gPnmHfo4FWlJnemXdaMMLDYBshjpzU/s800/t129-1-2x.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="400" data-original-width="800" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh77lTTgBvq7VPwWC9e5bDb_mGgXT3Lpl9Hiuoe9kt-0kaqIFWo1AtN4ZUULnQ3rmMMp_hlFCuA4mcsTjGTzy1khGbxbOokRmmW96cr4y5WMq4d2gPnmHfo4FWlJnemXdaMMLDYBshjpzU/w640-h320/t129-1-2x.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The T129B ATAK attack helicopter. Photo credits to HeliHub.</td></tr></tbody></table><span style="font-family: arial;"><br /><span face=""arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif">===============</span><br /><span face=""arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif">===============</span><span face=""arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif"><br /></span><span face=""arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif">First release: 23 December 2020</span><br /><span face=""arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif">Copyright MaxDefense Philippines</span><br /></span><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiYWXCNgEKjy9PvhyXm0jmw-UnztULhhX9_GTnNx_JypEfRUOe07Cmiy5RovWdombNpNjDgXqOLGsfr3ebf42GCzvvv9mgDCJupEGN2BfPWB07rMXH1PWyeHsOmXJDQ-oAMnohCrulGckI/s1600/20160919_073729.jpg" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: arial;"><img border="0" data-original-height="227" data-original-width="961" height="75" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiYWXCNgEKjy9PvhyXm0jmw-UnztULhhX9_GTnNx_JypEfRUOe07Cmiy5RovWdombNpNjDgXqOLGsfr3ebf42GCzvvv9mgDCJupEGN2BfPWB07rMXH1PWyeHsOmXJDQ-oAMnohCrulGckI/s320/20160919_073729.jpg" width="320" /></span></a><div><br /></div></div></div>max monterohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16217644456257635987noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3838050795464426329.post-29010458615876912632020-11-22T15:59:00.001+11:002020-11-22T15:59:10.521+11:00Philippine Navy to induct new Insitu ScanEagle Unmanned Aerial Vehicles provided by US<p><span style="font-family: arial;"> <br />The Philippine Navy (PN) is scheduled to induct a batch of brand new Insitu ScanEagle Unmanned Aerial Vehicles (UAVs) provided by the United States government. The induction is expected to happen in a matter of days after this blog is posted.<br /><br />These new UAVs were part of the US government's Indo-Pacific Maritime Security Initiative Strategy (then called Southeast Asia Maritime Security Initiative), which was started by the Obama administration in 2016, and continued by the Trump administration.<br /><br />These new ScanEagle UAVs will become the Philippine Navy's first fixed-wing drones that are actually inducted into service, rather than just tested and evaluated. </span></p><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjXfD9BGw6NxSlJYKyxNs7zoxjLjrtrhlU3HTCJ_ockQW1dHlOQPfsOOZvUd5dx866vRfeQ2EZk08OZMg7UvQSvKGzw45NYi5rnA8q04h98vptGt8DR7TN4hGvCQyRHi-HzmyiGDGHSdq0/s631/scaneagle_1520955755.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><span style="font-family: arial;"><img border="0" data-original-height="376" data-original-width="631" height="382" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjXfD9BGw6NxSlJYKyxNs7zoxjLjrtrhlU3HTCJ_ockQW1dHlOQPfsOOZvUd5dx866vRfeQ2EZk08OZMg7UvQSvKGzw45NYi5rnA8q04h98vptGt8DR7TN4hGvCQyRHi-HzmyiGDGHSdq0/w640-h382/scaneagle_1520955755.jpg" width="640" /></span></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: x-small;">One of the ScanEagle 2 UAVs handed-over to the PAF last March 2018. Credits to original source of photo.</span></td></tr></tbody></table><p><span style="font-family: arial;"><br /><b><u><span style="color: red;">US Grants to Philippines and Other Countries:<br /></span></u></b><br />In 2017, the US government confirmed that another batch of ScanEagle UAVs will be granted to the Philippines, and will be a follow-on after the first batch that were also ordered in 2017 and handed over to the Philippine Air Force (PAF) in March 2018.<br /></span></p><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiyLATuUejCwN_GuIti_QIY-J-Op-DANN6QFdKphx99l_Ng2dWOhkG37_A1qz5uUoRibh28kY_cn9mG1woebfeWSCIin629lZMwliod7wWJjU8KEV-XaBvyo5HflA15yfuINePARExkwlA/s960/29179020_2047900651937261_4993644204092264655_n.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><span style="font-family: arial;"><img border="0" data-original-height="720" data-original-width="960" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiyLATuUejCwN_GuIti_QIY-J-Op-DANN6QFdKphx99l_Ng2dWOhkG37_A1qz5uUoRibh28kY_cn9mG1woebfeWSCIin629lZMwliod7wWJjU8KEV-XaBvyo5HflA15yfuINePARExkwlA/w640-h480/29179020_2047900651937261_4993644204092264655_n.jpg" width="640" /></span></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: x-small;">ScanEagle 2 UAVs of the Philippine Air Force. Credits to original source of photo.<br /></span></td></tr></tbody></table><p><span style="font-family: arial;">It was first thought that the second batch will still be for the PAF, but checking with sources within the Armed Forces of the Philippines, MaxDefense Philippines was told that it would be for the Philippine Navy (PN) as a similar request was also made that would be used primarily for maritime surveillance.<br /><br /><a href="https://www.flightglobal.com/civil-uavs/insitu-sells-34-scaneagle-drones-to-southeast-asian-countries/132961.article"><span style="color: #2b00fe;">The Philippines will not be the only country to receive ScanEagle UAVs from the US</span></a>. Indonesia, Malaysia and Vietnam are also earmarked to receive the same UAVs to assist them in improving their maritime surveillance capabilities. The orders for all 4 countries were only processed in 2019.<br /><br /><a href="https://www.navalnews.com/naval-news/2020/05/royal-malaysian-navy-took-delivery-of-six-scaneagle-uav/"><span style="color: #2b00fe;">Malaysia was given priority, and received 6 units early this year</span></a>. The Philippines is believed to be the second to receive ScanEagles this year, with an expected 8 units based on the reports made in 2019. It remains to be seen if the PN will indeed receive 8 units, since it is possible for the quantity to increase or decrease.<br /><br /><b><u><span style="color: red;">ScanEagle 3?<br /></span></u></b><br />While the PAF received the ScanEagle 2 UAV in 2018, it remains to be seen if the PN will be receiving the same ScanEagle 2, or the newer ScanEagle 3 variant, which was launched only in 2018 after the PAF received their drones.<br /><br />So far, there is no confirmation found if the Royal Malaysian Navy (RMN) received the ScanEagle 2 or ScanEagle 3, as it could be the best basis of what the Philippine Navy could be receiving.<br /><br />The ScanEagle 3 is the latest variant of the ScanEagle family of small UAVs, with improvements made on payload carrying capacity, said to be almost double compared to earlier models, while retaining its freedom from International Traffic in Arms Regulations (ITAR) control.<br /></span></p><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiq1f8bT_v68Bd-2DfDcuz7dHV9iVMdNDTyn95bsxxkoKACCPeJRuMQuFIv6ONd2KB0xgMjjHhNHiRFQgcRphlb-7u0-NnfUfAxr2rYYSYM-iDc9pZYcGm5LG32zc7qzUMcBRALfYpj_ZE/s920/scaneagle_3_uav_rigged_02.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><span style="font-family: arial;"><img border="0" data-original-height="497" data-original-width="920" height="346" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiq1f8bT_v68Bd-2DfDcuz7dHV9iVMdNDTyn95bsxxkoKACCPeJRuMQuFIv6ONd2KB0xgMjjHhNHiRFQgcRphlb-7u0-NnfUfAxr2rYYSYM-iDc9pZYcGm5LG32zc7qzUMcBRALfYpj_ZE/w640-h346/scaneagle_3_uav_rigged_02.jpg" width="640" /></span></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: x-small;">A CGI of the new ScanEagle 3, which features twin tails siliar to the concept of the PAF's OV-10 Bronco attack aircraft. Credits to original source of photo.</span></td></tr></tbody></table><div><span style="font-family: arial;"><br />This allows for additional or larger sensors to be carried that previous ScanEagle models are not capable of doing. It also allows for multiple sensors to be carried, improving its surveillance capabilities than ever before.</span></div><div><p><span style="font-family: arial;">It also has improved endurance over previous models, using a new purpose-built propulsion system that allows more payload without compromising endurance. The new design allows for the wings to be adjusted and moved to alter the drone's center of gravity for rapid payload integration in the field. <br /><br />It has a length of 2.5 meters, a wingspan of 4 meters, and a gross takeoff weight of 36.3 kilograms. It now can carry 9.1 kilograms of payload which may include C2 datalinks, video datalins, Electro-optical turret, dual imager, and Mircowave Radiometer (MWR) that can detect radio or microwave energy emitted by targets.<br /></span></p><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgocw18p95W76_EOaA3hi2NcPipYY5AQy0iqhLx7xX7f-V-nlraxrzZOe3gRKaoceSHziP_VoeOwhHiZ3Zer4UiaLRen-jtEapLQl8cMvvVxGNs7rGV-m2nyfN_JGivokwPcTSQ4FKigK8/s1520/64be62c1dfcafa3659cb0c96d5a0bf2b.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><span style="font-family: arial;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1013" data-original-width="1520" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgocw18p95W76_EOaA3hi2NcPipYY5AQy0iqhLx7xX7f-V-nlraxrzZOe3gRKaoceSHziP_VoeOwhHiZ3Zer4UiaLRen-jtEapLQl8cMvvVxGNs7rGV-m2nyfN_JGivokwPcTSQ4FKigK8/w640-h426/64be62c1dfcafa3659cb0c96d5a0bf2b.jpg" width="640" /></span></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: x-small;">An actual ScanEagle 3 during its unveiling in 2018. Photo credits to Shephard Media.</span></td></tr></tbody></table></div><div><span style="font-family: arial;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-family: arial;"><u><span style="color: red;"><b>71 Maritime Unmanned Aerial Reconnaissance Squadron:<br /></b></span></u><br />As reported several weeks ago by MaxDefense Philippines and our extension Philippine Defense Resource, the Philippine Navy's Naval Air Wing (NAW) has created a new squadron that will handle the operation of these new ScanEagle UAVs, which is the 71 Maritime Unmanned Aerial Reconnaissance Squadron.</span></div><span style="font-family: arial;"><br /></span><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj5z3hZA_IVwcvILKsOX3GhfdWYGNWBk4IlDYR4bcPgG86_6HuM2Qfg2QJZBqNyj_DGP4C6PHNPn7FgJiPFcQ8uLpjxNvvrFQ65r2v6odoOBTfHk4jvmlwP-4qkNwMgGDeyeTiColft1zo/s514/71MUARS.PNG" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><span style="font-family: arial;"><img border="0" data-original-height="260" data-original-width="514" height="324" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj5z3hZA_IVwcvILKsOX3GhfdWYGNWBk4IlDYR4bcPgG86_6HuM2Qfg2QJZBqNyj_DGP4C6PHNPn7FgJiPFcQ8uLpjxNvvrFQ65r2v6odoOBTfHk4jvmlwP-4qkNwMgGDeyeTiColft1zo/w640-h324/71MUARS.PNG" width="640" /></span></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: x-small;">The 71 Maritime Unmanned Aerial Reconnaissance Squadron's logo, which actually incorporates a ScanEagle UAV, albeit the older ScanEagle 1 variant showing the older nose design. As feared by MaxDefense Philippines, this could be a sign that many in the PN do not really know the difference between older and newer variants of the ScanEagle. Photo taken from the PN's publication.</span></td></tr></tbody></table><p><span style="font-family: arial;"><br />The new squadron is expected to be the first UAV squadron of the PN NAW, as MaxDefense Philippines was told that the PN is interested in acquiring larger maritime surveillance UAVs in the future.<br />i<br />Similar to how the PAF deployed their ScanEagle 2 UAVs, it is expected that the PN would also deploy their ScanEagle UAVs in various locations, most notably facing the West Philippine Sea (WPS) and the tri-border with Malaysia and Indonesia.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial;">But we are actually hoping for the Philippine Navy to consider deploying these ScanEagle UAVs on ships, and act as eyes and ears for the surface warfare ships on top of their existing radar and EO/IR systems.<br /><br />Examples where the ScanEagle UAV can be deployed are the <i>Jose Rizal</i>-class frigates and the <i>Del Pilar</i>-class offshore patrol vessels, both of which have a helicopter landing decks. Even smaller ships like the <i>Jacinto</i>-class are capable of operating ScanEagles, as already demonstrated by other navies.</span></p><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgYjDNWWZJAt_IREIztNAX3wlWZB-DKPWqD8Nr7vsZ58e6zE8WhTL8CoLwl5jFIprrytVfNs0kKwNdv-QEc-Rx8Bt1ZX0kkPrYVp4DJu2wYur5KKObq5ELSkMjSkZT0cMDCfre_Muh3cx4/s1122/p1638897.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><span style="font-family: arial;"><img border="0" data-original-height="842" data-original-width="1122" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgYjDNWWZJAt_IREIztNAX3wlWZB-DKPWqD8Nr7vsZ58e6zE8WhTL8CoLwl5jFIprrytVfNs0kKwNdv-QEc-Rx8Bt1ZX0kkPrYVp4DJu2wYur5KKObq5ELSkMjSkZT0cMDCfre_Muh3cx4/w640-h480/p1638897.jpg" width="640" /></span></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: x-small;">Singapore's <i>Victory</i>-class corvettes, which are almost the same size as the Jacinto-class OPV, are equipped with launcher and recovery systems for the ScanEagle UAV. Photo taken from RSN.</span></td></tr></tbody></table><p><span style="font-family: arial;"><br />In any way, the addition of these ScanEagle UAVs to the Philippine Navy are very much appreciated to allow the force's continuous improvement, thanks again to the assistance of our ally.<br /><br />It remains to be seen if the PN will receive another batch of ScanEagles, as the US government appears to have prepared for the allocation lof a 3rd batch of ScanEagle UAVs to the Armed Forces of the Philippines. Since the Philippine Army is standardizing with Israeli-made UAVs which it bought on its own, additional ScanEagles could either be for the PAF or PN.<br /><br />This would be dependent on the policies on upcoming US President Joe Biden, who is believed to be on its way to half US military assistance to the Philippines due to Philippine Pres. Rodrigo Duterte's poor human rights records.<br /><br />Several weeks ago, our extension Philippine Defense Resource TV posted a video on the creation of a new unit to receive the new ScanEagle UAVs from the US. This was already a sign of things to come considering the deliveries have already started for the entire order made for the 4 selected Southeast Asian countries.<br /><br /></span></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><iframe allowfullscreen="" class="BLOG_video_class" height="347" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/YEKyHSbiFc4" width="480" youtube-src-id="YEKyHSbiFc4"></iframe></div><br /><p></p><p><span style="font-family: arial;">===============<br /><b><u><span style="color: red;"><br />Project Summary:</span></u></b></span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial;"><span><b><u>ScanEagle UAV Acquisition Project of the Philippine Navy:</u></b><br /><br /><i>Note: Edited as of 22 November 2020.</i><br /><br /><b>* End User:</b> Philippine Navy (Naval Air Wing)<br /><br /><b>* Quantity:</b> between 6 to 8 units<br /><br /><b>* Modernization Phase:</b> Special Projects of the AFP<br /><br /><b>* Project ABC:</b> Not applicable<br /><br /><b>* Acquisition Mode:</b> US Military Assistance Grant<br /><br /><b>* Source of Funding:</b> Funded by US government<br /><br /><b>* SARO Release:</b> N/A<br /><br /><b>* Winning Proponent:</b> Insitu Pacific Corp.<br /><br /><b>* Product for Delivery:</b> </span><br /><span> - 6 to 8 ScanEagle UAVs, still to be determined if ScanEagle 2 or 3 variant, including launching and recovery, and support equipment</span></span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial;"></span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial;"><b>* Contract Price:</b> Not applicable<br /><br /><b>* Residual Price: </b>Not applicable<br /><br /><b>* First post by MaxDefense: </b><a href="https://www.facebook.com/MaxDefense/photos/a.119059604931372/636973493139978"><b><span style="color: #2b00fe;">11 December 2017</span></b></a><br /><b><br />* MaxDefense Searching Hashtag:</b> #PNScanEagleUAVAcquisition<br /><br /><b>* Status:</b> US government announced grant of surveillance equipment to select Asia-Pacific countries in 2017. Contract awarded by US government to Insitu Pacific in 2019, for delivery by late November 2020.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial;">===============<br /></span><span style="font-family: arial;">===============<br /></span><span style="font-family: arial;">First edit and release: 22 November 2020<br /></span><span style="font-family: arial;">Copyright MaxDefense Philippines<br /></span></p><div><span style="clear: left; display: inline; font-family: arial; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiYWXCNgEKjy9PvhyXm0jmw-UnztULhhX9_GTnNx_JypEfRUOe07Cmiy5RovWdombNpNjDgXqOLGsfr3ebf42GCzvvv9mgDCJupEGN2BfPWB07rMXH1PWyeHsOmXJDQ-oAMnohCrulGckI/s961/20160919_073729.jpg" style="clear: left; display: inline; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="226" data-original-width="961" height="47" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiYWXCNgEKjy9PvhyXm0jmw-UnztULhhX9_GTnNx_JypEfRUOe07Cmiy5RovWdombNpNjDgXqOLGsfr3ebf42GCzvvv9mgDCJupEGN2BfPWB07rMXH1PWyeHsOmXJDQ-oAMnohCrulGckI/w200-h47/20160919_073729.jpg" width="200" /></a></span></div>max monterohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16217644456257635987noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3838050795464426329.post-13851979191731638232020-11-07T11:32:00.003+11:002021-02-13T11:51:41.647+11:00Discussing the Philippine Air Force's Heavy Lift Helicopter Project as Russia wins with the Mil Mi-171 Hip<p><span style="font-family: arial;">The Philippine Air Force (PAF) has embarked on the acquisition of Heavy Lift Helicopters as part of its 2nd List of Horizon 2 Phase projects. </span><span style="font-family: arial;">This project aims to provide the PAF with larger helicopters than what it currently has, to fit certain combat and peacetime requirements in tactical airlift and heliborne operations.</span><span style="font-family: arial;"><br /><br /></span><span style="font-family: arial;">As reported earlier by our extension Philippine Defense Resource, the Notice of Award (NOA) was awarded, although it remains to be seen if it was through SOVTECHNOEXPORT or ROSOBORONEXPORT. In any case, the Russians offered to sell the Russian Helicopters Mil Mi-171 Hip medium military helicopter.</span><br style="font-family: arial;" /></p><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjhnXIRcWMr1c3EP_juQGnTb8c8B3ol37FJxrK3Fmxs_H1P27TXccYNmjC3YfEVgHt902ndwdjvU71rRKhBaAvZY3CNeyPCMVZjr5rceG1bbQpEB8T1jJVxVf7xV15eimbcUuJ6czr0ULU/s2200/dsc_0661.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1080" data-original-width="2200" height="314" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjhnXIRcWMr1c3EP_juQGnTb8c8B3ol37FJxrK3Fmxs_H1P27TXccYNmjC3YfEVgHt902ndwdjvU71rRKhBaAvZY3CNeyPCMVZjr5rceG1bbQpEB8T1jJVxVf7xV15eimbcUuJ6czr0ULU/w640-h314/dsc_0661.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: x-small;">The Mil Mi-171Sh helicopter. Photo taken from AIN Online.</span></td></tr></tbody></table><p><span style="font-family: arial;"><br /></span><b style="font-family: arial;"><u><span style="color: red;">Overview:</span></u></b></p><p><span style="font-family: arial;"><b><span style="color: #ffa400;">40 Years of Longing for a Heavy Lift Helicopter:<br /></span></b><br />The Philippine Air Force has been eyeing heavy lift helicopters since the 1970s, with the Boeing CH-47 Chinook already being considered during modernization programs for the last 40 years.<br /><br />In 1978, the US government actually considered selling the CH-47D Chinook, which was a new variant back then, in lieu of a request for 36 units of DHC-5 Buffalo medium lift aircraft. According to US declassified reports, if contract was signed for the CH-47D Chinook, they were projected to enter service with the PAF by 1981. But this did not push through due to the Philippine economy's poor performance.</span></p><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgKaMNcSR0IDrHIoyoIN1wcTUTmIU-CTDvYeIdCkRXGQNnyrbkhXsmoi-NAh8zaPI_CrYz9Qz8HiH1o1hu91sRu87ORxC75uaN_DuCpEziDaan1RZMq1e896DWRXEeqJB7lDH37u5sqG44/s1280/Spanish-Army-CH-47-Chinook.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><span style="font-family: arial;"><img border="0" data-original-height="720" data-original-width="1280" height="360" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgKaMNcSR0IDrHIoyoIN1wcTUTmIU-CTDvYeIdCkRXGQNnyrbkhXsmoi-NAh8zaPI_CrYz9Qz8HiH1o1hu91sRu87ORxC75uaN_DuCpEziDaan1RZMq1e896DWRXEeqJB7lDH37u5sqG44/w640-h360/Spanish-Army-CH-47-Chinook.jpg" width="640" /></span></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: x-small;">The CH-47D Chinook of the Spanish Army. Photo credits to original source.</span></td></tr></tbody></table><p><span style="font-family: arial;">The 1995 AFP Modernization Program also listed a requirement for Heavy Lift Helicopters, with a total of 4 units requested to enter between 1995 to 2010. The CH-47D Chinook was also eyed by the PAF to meet this requirement. Again, due to the poor performance of the Philippine economy, the entire program did not push through, including the acquisition of Heavy Lift Helicopters.<br /></span></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjqgmrMfqbLVLVHx5ta8FQ0vKav45KzhhTCZUwhJ8CfOwtmot08IldkVgt3PPQLP9dQGzsRV-itvnXUkrj01ToZqnADDCNumTr_wfNj0JafocvqxpfZgkDJ_cGw10MieiNbK_kg5tIiAhM/s512/unnamed.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: arial;"><img border="0" data-original-height="512" data-original-width="508" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjqgmrMfqbLVLVHx5ta8FQ0vKav45KzhhTCZUwhJ8CfOwtmot08IldkVgt3PPQLP9dQGzsRV-itvnXUkrj01ToZqnADDCNumTr_wfNj0JafocvqxpfZgkDJ_cGw10MieiNbK_kg5tIiAhM/w636-h640/unnamed.jpg" width="636" /></span></a></div><p><span style="font-family: arial;">A requirement for Heavy Lift Helicopters again surfaced when the AFP Modernization Program was revised and extended to cover years 2013 to 2027. But it was programmed to be included in the Horizon 3 phase of the new project.<br /><br />Since the AFP and DND have an option to frontload projects depending on requirements, the Heavy Lift Helicopter Acquisition Project was moved to the 2nd List of Horizon 2 phase, which is an offshoot of the Horizon 2 phase depending if the government has extra funds available to frontload Horizon 3 projects.<br /><br />Again, the CH-47 Chinook family was in eyed by the Philippine Air Force, this time a newer variant called the CH-47F being available fresh from the factory. Other helicopters were also considered including the AgustaWestland AW101, as well as Medium Helicopters like the Airbus H225M Caracal, and the Russian Helicopters Mil Mi-171Sh Hip.</span></p><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgNu1bp4s-FX2cEgDsfHtJiSgvrA6uTakFG5N78bsJxaEYlFjZAy7Td-KRqPjpG2GAqrOH9nlpjkfvIYMsG5pfs6_kFyqMsBVw_lkfCUYPMrhUmQeXY4TdCTIeq9-EKGHQIWOKtu_vdW_4/s1280/1280px-Danish_air_force_EH-101_Merlin.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="958" data-original-width="1280" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgNu1bp4s-FX2cEgDsfHtJiSgvrA6uTakFG5N78bsJxaEYlFjZAy7Td-KRqPjpG2GAqrOH9nlpjkfvIYMsG5pfs6_kFyqMsBVw_lkfCUYPMrhUmQeXY4TdCTIeq9-EKGHQIWOKtu_vdW_4/w640-h480/1280px-Danish_air_force_EH-101_Merlin.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: x-small;">Also considered was the AgustaWestland AW101 Merlin. This example is with the Danish Air Force. Photo taken from Wikipedia.</span></td></tr></tbody></table><p><span style="font-family: arial;"><br /></span><span style="font-family: arial;">Originally, the PAF's Technical Working Group decided that the CH-47F Chinook was the only helicopter that met the PAF's requirements for heavy lift helicopters, which made it closer for the PAF to acquire the CH-47F Chinook.</span></p><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhg9XLQk3ifmCWhzPgc30rj3e70dWVIfTlceGuOS5m-HssBqb4w8PU1PZ5h1wDjWXW7iU7dOLIYyQkQ8xoTvKCcnecSX5_OO2-ClAl7snqX0sOSwVOzpv_rhEkSzaUkp-A5vbTke3zpXlU/s1100/55587680-10157193881929936-678464271373303808-o_orig.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="527" data-original-width="1100" height="306" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhg9XLQk3ifmCWhzPgc30rj3e70dWVIfTlceGuOS5m-HssBqb4w8PU1PZ5h1wDjWXW7iU7dOLIYyQkQ8xoTvKCcnecSX5_OO2-ClAl7snqX0sOSwVOzpv_rhEkSzaUkp-A5vbTke3zpXlU/w640-h306/55587680-10157193881929936-678464271373303808-o_orig.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: x-small;">The CH-47F Chinook, these examples with the Indian Air Force. Photo credits to IAF.</span></td></tr></tbody></table><p><span style="font-family: arial;"><br />But it appears that this was overturned by the Department of National Defense (DND), which asked the PAF to reconsider its specifications due to political reasons. As we have posted last year in our Facebook community page, the president himself was involved in the decision of the DND to push the PAF to reconsider.<br /></span><br /><b><span style="color: #ffa400; font-family: arial;">The Russian Connection:<br /></span></b><br style="font-family: arial;" /><span style="font-family: arial;">We reported that, according to our sources within the DND and PAF, Pres. Rodrigo Duterte was not in favor of the Philippine Air Force and DND's decision to select the Sikorsky S-70i Black Hawk for its Combat Utility Helicopter requirements, wherein 16 units were ordered for less than Php13 billion. But in the end, the president allowed the deal with Sikorsky to push through under one condition - that the PAF should also order helicopters from Russia, either transport or attack helicopters, or both.</span><br style="font-family: arial;" /><br style="font-family: arial;" /><span style="font-family: arial;">With the PAF in a tight situation, the Heavy Lift Helicopter project was again re-evaluated with changes in the specifications, and it was recommended in the end that the Mil Mi-171 meets the PAF's revised requirements and is the most ideal due to the number of helicopters (quantity) the Russians have agreed to sell based on the Php12.8 billion budget.</span><br style="font-family: arial;" /><br style="font-family: arial;" /><span style="font-family: arial;">While Russia agreed to sell 16 Mil Mi-171 helicopters, with a potential donation of 1 Mi-171 helicopter for VIP requirements, apparently Boeing was only able to offer 4 units under Foreign Military Sales (FMS) program, or 5 units under Direct Commercial Sales (DCS) program.</span><br style="font-family: arial;" /></p><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgbPKFNz_8pGZ0JZuzaYo-CE7L0gbRFH1xyh6rC9ogJ-n6GsqOnKGTDsDliSK6AxX6lSvMWiEuh9y-_P5j4diGdndLONTtLNOmyYGKVkvXUfBy0Dau6VPX8kOOohFuXbXa7uLIhCDHj4Xo/s512/unnamed+%25281%2529.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="180" data-original-width="512" height="224" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgbPKFNz_8pGZ0JZuzaYo-CE7L0gbRFH1xyh6rC9ogJ-n6GsqOnKGTDsDliSK6AxX6lSvMWiEuh9y-_P5j4diGdndLONTtLNOmyYGKVkvXUfBy0Dau6VPX8kOOohFuXbXa7uLIhCDHj4Xo/w640-h224/unnamed+%25281%2529.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: x-small;">The Mil Mi-171, this example with the Russian Army. Photo taken from Avia Russia.</span></td></tr></tbody></table><div><span style="font-family: arial;"><br /></span><span style="font-family: arial;">Negotiations with Russia's Rosoboronexport commenced in 2018, although issues related to the US' Countering America's Adversaries Through Sanctions Act (CAATSA) was deemed to be an obstacle to a deal being reached between the DND and Rosoboronexport.</span></div><br style="font-family: arial;" /><span style="font-family: arial;">It was noted that as of March 2019, a new Russian state shell company SOVTECHNOEXPORT appears to be the one handling the deal between the Philippines DND and Russia on the potential acquisition of the Mil Mi-171 helicopter.</span><br style="font-family: arial;" /><br style="font-family: arial;" /><span style="font-family: arial;">As of 3rd quarter 2020, preparation was being made by the DND to release the Notice of Award (NOA) in favor of the Russian government, although it remains to be seen if it would be through SOVTECHNOEXPORT or ROSOBORONEXPORT.<br /><br /><b><u><span style="color: red;">What's Next?<br /></span></u></b><br /></span><span style="font-family: arial;">Since the Mil Mi-171 is actually a Medium Helicopter rather than a Heavy Lift Helicopter, it remains a question as to why the Philippine Air Force decided to use the Heavy Lift Helicopter Acquisition Project as it means to acquire the Mil Mi-171, rather than frontload the Medium Lift Helicopter Acquisition Project, which is also slated under Horizon 3 phase, as it is more appropriate for the helicopter being sought after?<br /><br />Also, since the PAF actually has requirements for helicopters that are larger than the Mil Mi-171, will they be raising a new Heavy Lift Helicopter Acquisition Project under the Horizon 3 phase, with specifications closer to than of the CH-47F Chinook rather than medium helicopters like the Mil Mi-171?</span><br style="font-family: arial;" /><br /><b><u><span style="color: red; font-family: arial;">Other Possibilities:<br /></span></u></b><br /><span style="font-family: arial;">Another possibility now is related to the Philippine Army, which was said to also have been offered both the Mil Mi-171 and the Boeing CH-47F Chinook for their own helicopter requirements.<br /><br />Based on information MaxDefense got from sources from the Philippine Army, the Philippine Army leadership as well as the Army Aviation Regiment was said to be more in favor of the CH-47F Chinook, although it is currently not their priority as they wanted to build up their planned fleet of combat utility, scout, and attack helicopters, before they consider getting larger helicopters.<br /><br />So it could be similar to the PAF's plan of potentially asking another batch of heavy helicopters under the Horizon 3 phase of the RAFPMP.</span><br /><br style="font-family: arial;" /><span style="font-family: arial;">===============</span><br /><p><b style="font-family: arial;"><u><span style="color: red;">Project Summary:</span></u></b></p><p><span style="font-family: arial;"><b><u>Heavy Lift Helicopter Acquisition Project:</u></b><br /><br /><i>Note: Edited as of 07 November 2020.</i><br /><br /><b>* End User:</b> Philippine Air Force (still being determined if 205th Tactical Helicopter Wing or 220th Airlift Wing)<br /><br /><b>* Quantity:</b> 16 military helicopters + potentially 1 VIP helicopter<br /><br /><b>* Modernization Phase:</b> Horizon 2 Priority Projects of RAFPMP<br /><br /><b>* Project ABC:</b> Php12,800,000,000.00<br /><br /><b>* Acquisition Mode:</b> Government-to-Government (G2G) Procurement with Russian government (Sovtechnoexport and/or Rosoboronexport)<br /><br /><b>* Source of Funding:</b> Multi-Year Contractual Authority for 3 years, using General Appropriations Act (GAA) from FY2020 to FY2022.<br /><br /><b>* SARO Release:</b> SARO-BMB-D-20-0018320 worth Php1,919,626,490.00 (15% initial payment) dated 29 October 2020, released 04 November 2020.<br /><br /><b>* Winning Proponent:</b> TBC<br /><br /><b>* Product for Delivery:</b> </span><br style="font-family: arial;" /><span style="font-family: arial;"> - 16 Mil Mi-171, exact variant still being confirmed although most like Mi-171Sh<br /> - unconfirmed report of 1 Mil Mi-171 in VIP configuration, most likely Mi-171A2</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial;"><b>* Contract Price:</b> Php12,797,509,932.00<br /><br /><b>* Residual Price: </b>Php2,490,068.00<br /><br /><b>* First post by MaxDefense: <a href="https://www.facebook.com/MaxDefense/posts/986514664852524">28 June 2019</a><br /></b><b><br />* MaxDefense Searching Hashtag:</b> #PAFHeavyLiftHelicopterAcquisition<br /><br /><b>* Status:</b> DND has decided to award the project to the Russian government, with the Notice of Award (NOA) being prepared to be released in either to Sovetechnoexport or Rosoboronexport. SARO for initial 15% funding was released on 04 November 2020, awaiting for NOA release which is expected before end of 2020.</span></p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><iframe allowfullscreen="" class="BLOG_video_class" height="364" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/CssKQOKIwZg" width="481" youtube-src-id="CssKQOKIwZg"></iframe></div><br /><p><span style="font-family: arial;">===============<br /></span><span style="font-family: arial;">===============<br /></span><span style="font-family: arial;">First edit and release: 07 November 2020<br /></span><span style="font-family: arial;">Copyright MaxDefense Philippines<br /></span></p><div style="text-align: left;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiYWXCNgEKjy9PvhyXm0jmw-UnztULhhX9_GTnNx_JypEfRUOe07Cmiy5RovWdombNpNjDgXqOLGsfr3ebf42GCzvvv9mgDCJupEGN2BfPWB07rMXH1PWyeHsOmXJDQ-oAMnohCrulGckI/s961/20160919_073729.jpg" style="clear: left; display: inline; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial;"><img border="0" data-original-height="226" data-original-width="961" height="47" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiYWXCNgEKjy9PvhyXm0jmw-UnztULhhX9_GTnNx_JypEfRUOe07Cmiy5RovWdombNpNjDgXqOLGsfr3ebf42GCzvvv9mgDCJupEGN2BfPWB07rMXH1PWyeHsOmXJDQ-oAMnohCrulGckI/w200-h47/20160919_073729.jpg" width="200" /></span></a></div><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><div><span style="font-family: arial;"><br /></span></div></div>max monterohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16217644456257635987noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3838050795464426329.post-32818133601149918182020-11-04T14:24:00.003+11:002020-11-04T14:24:17.960+11:00Philippine Air Force to restart acquisition of Maritime Patrol Aircraft under the Long Range Patrol Aircraft Project<p><span style="font-family: arial;">The Philippine Air Force (PAF) is preparing to re-introduce one of its long-forgotten projects, which it now plans to re-implement under Fiscal Year 2021.<br /><br />The PAF's Long Range Patrol Aircraft (LRPA) Acquisition Project is originally a Horizon 1 phase priority project under the Revised AFP Modernization Program (RAFPMP). But the project hit several setbacks after a successful start a few years ago.</span></p><span style="font-family: arial;">As part of the proposed procurements submitted by the Department of National Defense (DND) to the Senate during its FY2021 budget hearing, the LRPA project was among those proposed to be included as part of the Php5 billion Unprogrammed Appropriations to the AFP Modernization Program.<br /><br /></span><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgVs-vCn7-6OqRiuPuEMPION8s0d0Ahl_Qdd6_wPwg2Psvq6q6_gaHcpYcc8c6xbkP0IEGY6HCmR22_P4AKlkj3EVF8jeXBhECV7s0xGIDA6rt_pUg6ZGTT6iZ2ziwrrfWyIRtpAX_0xXo/s800/ATR-P-72A-maritime-patrol-aircraft.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial;"><img border="0" data-original-height="445" data-original-width="800" height="356" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgVs-vCn7-6OqRiuPuEMPION8s0d0Ahl_Qdd6_wPwg2Psvq6q6_gaHcpYcc8c6xbkP0IEGY6HCmR22_P4AKlkj3EVF8jeXBhECV7s0xGIDA6rt_pUg6ZGTT6iZ2ziwrrfWyIRtpAX_0xXo/w640-h356/ATR-P-72A-maritime-patrol-aircraft.jpg" width="640" /></span></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: x-small;">The Leonardo ATR-72MP (or P-72A) which is among those offered to the PAF. Photo taken from Defpost.</span></td></tr></tbody></table><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial;"><br /></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial;"><br /></span></div><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEixvBL9pA-LxwQHOLadA_9v1IQqFQiO48ioXUv6oQzlHi7bcj433KoaRBsNFenuARajRIDN9Q4VrrrzWkkOjF7tuhqhcu3dpCXKpkIK7kfgg7hO3OHKyrQyH_lSWvvI5coygs18WTfkIpU/s600/C295ASW.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><span style="font-family: arial;"><img border="0" data-original-height="315" data-original-width="600" height="336" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEixvBL9pA-LxwQHOLadA_9v1IQqFQiO48ioXUv6oQzlHi7bcj433KoaRBsNFenuARajRIDN9Q4VrrrzWkkOjF7tuhqhcu3dpCXKpkIK7kfgg7hO3OHKyrQyH_lSWvvI5coygs18WTfkIpU/w640-h336/C295ASW.jpg" width="640" /></span></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: x-small;">The Airbus C-295ASW Persuader, the original aircraft that the PAF was almost getting until the tender failed. Photo from Airbus.</span></td></tr></tbody></table><p><span style="font-family: arial;"><br /><b><u><span style="color: red;">Flashback:</span></u></b></span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial;"><span>The Long Range Patrol Aircraft Acquisition Project was among those that started well when Horizon 1 phase was implemented, but ended miserably and neglected due to changes in priorities.</span><br /><br /><span>The intention was for the Philippine Air Force to acquire it's first two (2) new maritime patrol aircraft (MPA) that would be used for maritime surveillance, anti-ship and anti-submarine warfare (ASuW & ASW), intelligence gathering, and command & control (C2). The aircraft are to fly further beyond the country's Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ), can be armed, and will be the primary manned surveillance asset of the PAF and Armed Forces of the Philippines in general. The allocated budget (ABC) for the project was Php5,976,000,000.00.</span></span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial;"><span face=""arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif">The LRPA Acquisition Project was among the first project that was implemented by the PAF due to the expected long acquisition period. It was decided by DND back then that the acquisition will be via Two-Stage Public Bidding, with the procurement process starting as early as 1st quarter of 2014. It was expected that the winning bidder would be able to deliver both aircraft within 34 months after the release of Notice to Proceed (NTP), or opening of Letter of Credit (LOC).<br /><br />In the first bidding attempt, <a href="https://maxdefense.blogspot.com/2014/08/pafs-long-range-patrol-aircraft-tech.html"><span style="color: #2b00fe;">none of the participating companies were able to pass the 1st first stage of the bidding</span></a>. </span><br /><span face=""arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif"><br /></span><span face=""arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif">Another attempt was made in 2016, and only Airbus Military was able to pass the first stage and considered eligible to proceed to the second stage that was suppose to be held in a couple of months. But after several negotiations in between and conducting the second stage bidding, <a href="https://maxdefense.blogspot.com/2014/05/analysis-on-pafs-upcoming-long-range.html"><span style="color: #2b00fe;">Airbus Military also failed the 2nd stage bidding, effectively declaring the process a failed bidding</span></a>. </span><br /><span face=""arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif"><br /></span></span></p><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhTi95XgB9T1cfATPRE_lJ-da2yI5g_2R8mu0u0NONoTQekG1joRk5KzUjyEvTghM_GB6LL7vYib214uHtObgRyxQqueBSzOrg8bvJKu9iEln1FZfA0IIpDVELQ71r-T_NHy7Lplj7n3q8/s1200/1963339.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><span style="font-family: arial;"><img border="0" data-original-height="812" data-original-width="1200" height="434" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhTi95XgB9T1cfATPRE_lJ-da2yI5g_2R8mu0u0NONoTQekG1joRk5KzUjyEvTghM_GB6LL7vYib214uHtObgRyxQqueBSzOrg8bvJKu9iEln1FZfA0IIpDVELQ71r-T_NHy7Lplj7n3q8/w640-h434/1963339.jpg" width="640" /></span></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: x-small;">The C-295ASW Persuader, this example with the Chilean Navy. Photo taken from Airliners.net.</span></td></tr></tbody></table><span style="font-family: arial;"><span face=""arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif"><br /><br />The failure was due to effects of the poor performance of the Philippine pesos against the US dollar and the Euro, wherein the peso value of the ABC was deemed insufficient to allow Airbus Military to deliver two fully compliant MPAs. Instead, Airbus proposed to deliver 1 fully compliant aircraft, and 1 incomplete aircraft (no Anti-Submarine Warfare capability) with the same bid amount they provided in the 1st stage bidding. But based on the government's procurement rules under RA 9184, this is unacceptable, thus Airbus' submitted bid was considered non-compliant, and they were declared disqualified.<br /><br />With no other bidder in the project, the LRPA Acquisition project was considered a failed bid as of 2017, after more than a year of process.</span><br /><span face=""arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif"><br /></span><span face=""arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif">A third attempt again happened in 2017 but was also considered another failed bidding, after none of the bidders passed the initial requirements under the first stage bidding.<br /><br />With the failed biddings, the DND is now allowed by law to proceed to a Limited Sourced Negotiated Procurement, which means it can now go directly to several of its shortlisted suppliers/manufacturers and get their best offer. This means the DND can now go directly and negotiate with Airbus Defense & Space, which appears to be the PAF's preferred supplier for the LRPA with their Airbus-CASA C-295MPA Persuader, similar to those sold to the Chilean Navy.<br /><br />Further reading is advised, through our previous blog entries on the LRPA's technical specs:<br /><br />"<a href="https://maxdefense.blogspot.com/2015/05/updates-on-pafs-long-range-patrol.html"><i><b><span style="color: #2b00fe;">PAF'S Long Range Patrol Aircraft - Tech Specs, Post-Bidding Report and Updated Analysis</span></b></i></a>" - first posted 29 May 2015.</span><br /><span face=""arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif"><br /></span><span face=""arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif"><b><u><span style="color: red;">Possible LRPA Negotiated Procurement:</span></u></b><br /><br />According to MaxDefense's earlier blog entries since 2014, despite the PAF's interest on refurbished Lockheed P-3C Orion maritime patrol aircraft from either US, Japan or Australia, the PAF is actually more interested in getting new aircraft, although they remain open on the potential acquisition of used P-3C Orions to boost the fleet.<br /><br />The 3 failed biddings in the past means the DND can now go directly and negotiate with interested proponents as allowed by law. This does not need to be just Airbus Military which almost bagged the project a few years ago with their Airbus-CASA C-295MPA Persuader. It now depends on the revised selection process conducted by the PAF's Technical Working Group (TWG), which already changed leadership and membership over the past 6 years. <br /></span></span><p></p><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjeEiYVvShZA_VprBjjgtCFV0MHtUJhvcj_o2_TIA9ssCLSzuGNdr-MTHpuWZr7JHJtayXS7kzFQP6I0PaUNRxuTmg1WmexNlj5iF099ryE_hCIa-3hoxux55CGl4VoRv5_lZsBNyHie5Y/s1600/1818267.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><span style="font-family: arial;"><img border="0" data-original-height="432" data-original-width="640" height="429" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjeEiYVvShZA_VprBjjgtCFV0MHtUJhvcj_o2_TIA9ssCLSzuGNdr-MTHpuWZr7JHJtayXS7kzFQP6I0PaUNRxuTmg1WmexNlj5iF099ryE_hCIa-3hoxux55CGl4VoRv5_lZsBNyHie5Y/w640-h429/1818267.jpg" width="640" /></span></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: x-small;">The Airbus C-295ASW Persuader of the Chilean Navy, which has an anti-submarine capability including the presence of magnetic anomaly detector (MAD) and munitions firing capability for anti-submarine torpedoes or anti-ship missiles. The PAF's original LRPA requirement also calls for these capabilities.<br />Photo taken from Airliners.net.</span></td></tr></tbody></table><p><span style="font-family: arial;"><span face=""arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif"><br /></span><span face=""arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif">But this does not close the door on the chance that the project would still be procured via a Public Bidding. This would now be dependent on the DND, which should issue a new Acquisition Decision Memorandum (ADM) on how to proceed with the project.<br /><br /></span>At this point in time, MaxDefense has no information yet as we have not receive any info on a new ADM for the project released by the DND for the project, although we expect to know about it once its released.</span></p><div><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhNGmd3vWleoH2cDbOVyD9cqpVX0GjHnQ3gi8ev52U_C6Jwkww6wyGaZ2c22swcyLFFS1JTJnZ5VdSWQHsABWFohiRFzuA0keD_rU8njKc7VLGNB8c9yTzHzco5MHLj30WveJIaZmkhSbU/s1600/A319MPA-1.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><span style="font-family: arial;"><img border="0" data-original-height="235" data-original-width="440" height="339" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhNGmd3vWleoH2cDbOVyD9cqpVX0GjHnQ3gi8ev52U_C6Jwkww6wyGaZ2c22swcyLFFS1JTJnZ5VdSWQHsABWFohiRFzuA0keD_rU8njKc7VLGNB8c9yTzHzco5MHLj30WveJIaZmkhSbU/w640-h339/A319MPA-1.jpg" width="640" /></span></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: x-small;">Among the delays in the LRPA was attributed to the PAF's insistence of sticking to the specs rather than reducing the aircraft's capability to meet the budget. It was actually a good decision by PAF since they know how difficult it is for them to request for additional funding to fill-up systems that were fitted for but not with the aircraft.<br />Credits to original source of photo. </span></td></tr></tbody></table><span style="font-family: arial;"><br /></span></div><span style="font-family: arial;"><br /><b><u><span style="color: red;">New Information as of November 2020:<br /></span></u></b><br />Due to the long dormancy of the project, there appears to be a lot of changes in the project. <br /><br />First of, the head and members of the Technical Working Group has changed. So expect a different mindset on what to expect with the technical specifications. Majority of those who previously were in the group have already moved up in position although some of them are expected to remain.<br /><br />Because of this, there is a possibility that revisions on the Technical Specifications could be made. Basis could be on what prompted the project to fail back in 2017.<br /><br />Cost is another factor. Since 2017, it is expected that the cost of the same maritime patrol aircraft offered in 2016-2017 could have already increased by at least 5-15% due to inflation and other reasons.<br /><br /><b><span style="color: #ffa400;">Budget:</span></b></span><div><span style="font-family: arial;"><br />But one thing has not changed - the budget in pesos. It still remains that same at Php5,976,000,000.00. Back in 2016, the US dollar equivalent of that amount was around US$125.8 million. But in 2017, the US dollar value went down to US$118.5 million, or a difference of US$7.3 million which is a huge amount.<br /><br />Right now, the US dollar value of Php5,976,000,000.00 is around US$123.4 million. This is close to the 2016 US dollar value, but it does not necessarily mean the PAF can now afford the original offer made by Airbus Military. This now remains on what they would offer with the budget.<br /><br />MaxDefense also received information a few months ago that should the budget still be an issue, the PAF could be willing to drop the need for a Magnetic Anomaly Detector (MAD) which is a feature that would allow the PAF's LRPA to detect submarines, in addition to using disposable sonobuoys dropped from the aircraft.</span></div><div><span style="font-family: arial;"><br /><b><span><span style="color: red;"><u>Aircraft Platform Offers:</u></span><br /></span></b><br />There were several offers made again to the PAF as it actually kept the LRPA project open to proponents to provide offers. <br /><br />Offers came from actual aircraft manufacturers themselves like Airbus, PT Dirgantara Indonesia, and Leonardo. But the PAF also got offers from system integrators like Elbit Systems, IAI-Elta, PAL Aerospace, and Saab.<br /><br />As for platforms, the PAF is said to be inclined to use turboprop aircraft models, and among those are the Airbus-CASA C-295, the PTDI-CASA CN-235-220, the Bombardier Q400 Dash-8, and the Leonardo ATR-72.<br /><br /><b><span style="color: #ffa400;">Airbus-CASA C-295 and PTDI-CASA CN-235-220:</span></b><br /><br />Another concern that the PAF has raised was the use of a platform that is cheaper but can attain similar range and endurance requirements, and cannot be converted to a cargo aircraft if the PAF's current airlift fleet becomes short of assets. This appears to be a lesson learned on its previous maritime patrol aircraft, the Fokker F27-200MPA Enforcer, which back in the early 1990s, were converted to troop carriers when the PAF started to lose its airlift assets. </span></div><div><span style="font-family: arial;"><br /></span></div><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEggl2jzms5PMn4LF92zftlHYAAogyBZ-WjddxJ9G47L3Pr2KauYNyelTuvGrEV2Jilpud32h3sKW1a_P-X2SPA9kaEfAtp9usRUiz5EdJRIdQCXWDHrZSsfE0oSXVEjdr8nSM8sk9Jskx8/s1024/0751392.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><span style="font-family: arial;"><img border="0" data-original-height="746" data-original-width="1024" height="466" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEggl2jzms5PMn4LF92zftlHYAAogyBZ-WjddxJ9G47L3Pr2KauYNyelTuvGrEV2Jilpud32h3sKW1a_P-X2SPA9kaEfAtp9usRUiz5EdJRIdQCXWDHrZSsfE0oSXVEjdr8nSM8sk9Jskx8/w640-h466/0751392.jpg" width="640" /></span></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: x-small;">One of the Fokker F27-200MPA Enforcer maritime patrol aircraft of the PAF, this example already written-off from an accident in the late 1980s, operating only less than 10 years. Photo taken from Airliners.net.</span></td></tr></tbody></table><div><span style="font-family: arial;"><br /><br /></span></div><div><div><span style="font-family: arial;">Apparently, the PAF prefers a platform that do not have a modular pallet system, which effectively affects some of the offers including the Airbus-CASA C-295MPA and the PTDI-CASA CN-235-220MPA from Indonesia's PT Dirgantara Indonesia, both of which can be easily converted to transport aircraft due to its modular cabin design. </span></div><div><span style="font-family: arial;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-family: arial;">But this also becomes an issue in terms of commonality. Logic actually points for the PAF to strongly consider using the Airbus-CASA C-295 platform due to its commonality with existing C-295M transport aircraft that is seen to rise to 7 aircraft once the ongoing Medium Lift Aircraft Phase 2 project moves forward with Airbus' offer.</span></div><div><span style="font-family: arial;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-family: arial;">PTDI's CN-235-220MPA also appears to still be haunted by the same reason of its non-selection a f ew years ago, due to the dimensions and performance of the aircraft not meeting the specified requirements. It also is too short to accommodate 4 operator consoles as required by the PAF's specs.<br /><br />But compared to most of the offerings, the PTDI CN-235-220MPA has so far confirmed that Magnetic Anomaly Detector can be installed on both aircraft, and there is still enough extra funds to even allow them to provide the PAF with extras.</span></div><div><span style="font-family: arial;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-family: arial;">The proposal to go for platforms that do not have modular systems and a cargo ramp also boosts the chances of the other platforms being offered, the Bombardier's Q400 Dash-8 from Canada, and ATR's ATR-72 platform from Italy.<br /><br />While Bombardier itself has not made a pitch for the LRPA project, several companies like Elbit Systems proposed to use the Q400 Dash-8 platform as well as the ATR-72 platform, on top of Leonardo's own offer of the ATR-72MP.<br /><br /><b><span style="color: #ffa400;">Leonardo ATR-72 and Bombardier Q400 Dash-8:</span></b><br /><br />Based on studies made by the PAF, the ATR-72 platform is more desirable due to its lower operating cost and fuel consumption, and cheaper aircraft platform price. While the Bombardier Q-400 Dash-8 performs better in terms of speed and flight characteristics, the PAF believes that the ATR-72 is already good enough for its requirements.<br /><br />Leonardo has its own offer using the ATR-72 as the platform, called the ATR-72MP (also called the P-72A), which can also be scalable and upgraded to the ATR-72ASW which can perform anti-submarine warfare missions that the standard ATR-72MP cannot do.</span></div><div><span style="font-family: arial;"><br /></span></div><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiQY9ewEkT3BKS34YwTjiwKseClxvcYMtFw8S_J8GwExMQF9jpyfPC9laW9i1CP5zHzlKPN1VtZEeTBCQn9op6-H96Plo7SPhigmTDQci-tNWgahqfbm48osVQ0rMekVJf4CiHMMSlRaBA/s940/body_04_P_72A_focus.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><span style="font-family: arial;"><img border="0" data-original-height="409" data-original-width="940" height="278" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiQY9ewEkT3BKS34YwTjiwKseClxvcYMtFw8S_J8GwExMQF9jpyfPC9laW9i1CP5zHzlKPN1VtZEeTBCQn9op6-H96Plo7SPhigmTDQci-tNWgahqfbm48osVQ0rMekVJf4CiHMMSlRaBA/w640-h278/body_04_P_72A_focus.jpg" width="640" /></span></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: x-small;">The ATR-72MP, this example with the Italian Air Force. Photo taken from Leonardo's website.</span></td></tr></tbody></table><div><span style="font-family: arial;"><br />The only problem with the ATR-72MP/ASW is Leonardo itself. Apparently the PAF has been unsatisfied with Leonardo's aftersales support on their fleet of AgustaWestland AW109E Power armed helicopters, and has also received the same feedback from the Philippine Navy with its fleet of AW109E Power and AW159 Wildcat naval helicopters.</span></div><div><span style="font-family: arial;"><br />The Bombardier Q400 is actually used by Saab for its Swordfish MPA, as well as by Canada's PAL Aerospace for their Maritime Patrol Aircraft offering. The Q400 is also an option aircraft platform for both IAI-Elta and Elbit Systems' own MPA offerings.<br /><br />Elbit Systems is also open to use the ATR-72 aircraft as a platform in place of the Q400. It is unconfirmed though if Airbus is willing to use the ATR-72 for its MPA system, considering ATR is a joint venture of Airbus and Leonardo.<br /><br /></span></div><div><b style="font-family: arial;"><u><span style="color: #ffa400;">Final Decision?</span></u></b></div><div><div><span style="font-family: arial;"><br />So far for now, nothing is final so the race could still be anyone's game. There could also be other reasons that could potentially pop out during the negotiation with the proponents.</span></div><div><span style="font-family: arial;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-family: arial;">For example, results of other projects that involve the same proponents (ie. Leonardo being involved in other helicopter projects, PTDI involved in other transport aircraft projects, etc.).<br /><br />Contrary to what naysayers believe, MaxDefense Philippines does not back any of the proponents, and normally we just support what the end user selects, like in the case of the Philippine Army's Light Tank Project which was already decided almost a year before the winning proponent was awarded.<br /><br />We always believe that the end user knows what they need better than anyone else, including the DND.<br /><br /><u><span style="color: #ffa400;">To summarize the pros and cons of each platform:</span></u><br /><br /><b>1. Airbus C-295MPA / ASW Persuader:</b></span></div><div><span style="font-family: arial;"> Pros: commonality with existing C-295M fleet of the PAF.</span></div><div><span style="font-family: arial;"> Cons: ASW variant could be too expensive and beyond PAF's budget, slower than ATR-72 and Q400.</span></div><div><span style="font-family: arial;"><br /></span></div><div><b><span style="font-family: arial;">2. PTDI CN-235-220MPA:</span></b></div><div><span style="font-family: arial;"> <b> Pros:</b> cheapest among the platforms offered, can provide ASW capability.</span></div><div><span style="font-family: arial;"> <b>Cons:</b> shortest cabin space, slowest speed, 1 less operator space (as per PAF's info)<br /><br /><b>3. Leonardo ATR-72MPA / ASW:</b></span></div><div><span style="font-family: arial;"> <b>Pros:</b> cheaper than C-295MPA, potentially able to provide ASW capability within PAF's budget</span></div><div><span style="font-family: arial;"> <b>Cons:</b> PAF's poor satisfaction of Leonardo's aftersales support</span></div><div><span style="font-family: arial;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-family: arial;"><b>4. Bombardier Q400 Dash-8 MPA / Saab Swordfish Q400:</b><br /> <b>Pros:</b> fastest and best performing platform<br /> <b>Cons: </b>shortest range, narrowest cabin, most expensive platform to operate and sustain, aircraft manufacturer is not the integrator (Saab, PAL Aerospace, IAI, etc).</span></div><div><span style="font-family: arial;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-family: arial;">MaxDefense believes though, based on details and factors on the requirements as well as information from sources, that the race is most likely between Airbus' C-295MPA or C-295ASW, and Leonardo's P-72A. </span></div><div><p><span style="font-family: arial;"><span><b><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-decoration-line: underline;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEij9P8W3McEN5Cj2ISMPpD40599e6C3qjU1QElBd-pHZfADKJpuTZhE2ASgyunW4DBaZGcmb7NAT-GQNutW6KMRBEr604QKjalE0l6vn6abL2J8IW7bGYRLTwtFvULIrKPT26J_ktW-gHs/s638/swordfish-mpaa-media-presentation-singapore-airshow-2016-14-638.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="359" data-original-width="638" height="360" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEij9P8W3McEN5Cj2ISMPpD40599e6C3qjU1QElBd-pHZfADKJpuTZhE2ASgyunW4DBaZGcmb7NAT-GQNutW6KMRBEr604QKjalE0l6vn6abL2J8IW7bGYRLTwtFvULIrKPT26J_ktW-gHs/w640-h360/swordfish-mpaa-media-presentation-singapore-airshow-2016-14-638.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: x-small;">The Saab Swordfish MPA system can also use the Q400 platform aside from the Global 6000 jet. Photo from Saab.</span></td></tr></tbody></table><span style="color: red;"><br /></span></b><b><u><span style="color: red;">Project Summary:</span></u></b></span></span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial;"><span><b><u>Long Range Patrol Aircraft Acquisition Project:</u></b><br /><br /><i>Note: Edited as of 03 November 2020.</i><br /><br /><b>* End User:</b> Philippine Air Force (300th Air Intelligence and Security Wing)<br /><br /><b>* Quantity:</b> 2 maritime patrol aircraft<br /><br /><b>* Modernization Phase:</b> Horizon 1 Phase Priority Projects of RAFPMP<br /><br /><b>* Project ABC:</b> Php5,976,000,000.00<br /><br /><b>* Acquisition Mode:</b> To be confirmed, awaiting ADM from DND.<br /><br /><b>* Source of Funding:</b> AFP Modernization Program Trust Fund, to be paid via Multi-Year Obligatory Allocations (MYOA).<br /><br /><b>* SARO Release:</b> To follow<br /><br /><b>* Winning Proponent:</b> TBC<br /><br /><b>* Product for Delivery:</b> TBC</span><br /><b><br />* Contract Price:</b> TBC</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial;"><b>* Residual Price: </b>TBC<br /><br /><b>* First post by MaxDefense:</b> <a href="https://maxdefense.blogspot.com/2015/05/updates-on-pafs-long-range-patrol.html"><span style="color: blue;">29 May 2015</span></a><br /><br /><b>* MaxDefense Searching Hashtag:</b> #PAFLRPAAcquisition<br /><br /><b>* Status:</b> Project restarted, initial funding to be provided in 2021.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial;">===============<br /></span><span style="font-family: arial;">===============<br />First edit and release: 04 November 2020<br />Copyright MaxDefense Philippines<br /></span></p><div><span style="clear: left; display: inline; font-family: arial; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiYWXCNgEKjy9PvhyXm0jmw-UnztULhhX9_GTnNx_JypEfRUOe07Cmiy5RovWdombNpNjDgXqOLGsfr3ebf42GCzvvv9mgDCJupEGN2BfPWB07rMXH1PWyeHsOmXJDQ-oAMnohCrulGckI/s1600/20160919_073729.jpg" style="clear: left; display: inline; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="227" data-original-width="961" height="46" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiYWXCNgEKjy9PvhyXm0jmw-UnztULhhX9_GTnNx_JypEfRUOe07Cmiy5RovWdombNpNjDgXqOLGsfr3ebf42GCzvvv9mgDCJupEGN2BfPWB07rMXH1PWyeHsOmXJDQ-oAMnohCrulGckI/s200/20160919_073729.jpg" width="200" /></a></span></div><br /></div></div></div>max monterohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16217644456257635987noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3838050795464426329.post-9794353254946513582020-10-23T22:43:00.003+11:002020-11-03T06:21:35.101+11:00Philippine Army's Light Tank and Wheeled APC projects awarded to Israel's Elbit Systems<p><span style="font-family: arial;"><br />With the Philippines looking at reopening itself to business despite COVID-19 pandemic still ongoing, it looks like the Department of National Defense (DND) and the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP are doing the same now.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial;">As the Department of Budget and Management (DBM) confirming the release of funding for the initial 15% of the total project costs of the Light Tank and Wheeled Armored Personnel Carrier (APC) Acquisition Projects of the Philippine Army (PA), we now believe its time to announce the results of both projects.<br /></span></p><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiLWN9exWyWRw4qF5QhWcPC2zRGYw4AHstBIfdsLqTNqfcnRQJwwWRqEV3o14JjqLCjPDL66OgF08QszbvUXQpq69puZZCusBtSCL523YveAKICwcW88WDyyVf5TEIy0y3MVzAkUxpzcxg/s645/Sabrah+ASCOD.PNG" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><span style="font-family: arial;"><img border="0" data-original-height="373" data-original-width="645" height="370" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiLWN9exWyWRw4qF5QhWcPC2zRGYw4AHstBIfdsLqTNqfcnRQJwwWRqEV3o14JjqLCjPDL66OgF08QszbvUXQpq69puZZCusBtSCL523YveAKICwcW88WDyyVf5TEIy0y3MVzAkUxpzcxg/w640-h370/Sabrah+ASCOD.PNG" width="640" /></span></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial;">The Sabrah light tank using the GDELS ASCOD 2 tracked armored vehicle platform. Photo from Elbit Systems.</span></td></tr></tbody></table><p></p><p></p><div><b><u><span style="color: red; font-family: arial;">And the Winner is:</span></u></b></div><div><span style="font-family: arial;"><br />To those following MaxDefense for a long time, they already know our style of doing things, of how we drop bits and pieces of information everywhere, bring in related information as clues, give info on what's happening around the world that may affect certain projects, and push our community members to look for them and think for themselves.<br /><br />And so far, MaxDefense is happy that more people are understanding our way of bringing in information. <br /><br />Not surprising, many of our community members guessed who the winners are for both the Light Tank and Wheeled APC APC Acquisition Projects.<br /><br />And yes, MaxDefense Philippines can finally confirm that the winner for both projects is none other than Elbit Systems Land & C4I of Israel, working closely with the Israeli Ministry of Defense, which received the Notice of Award (NOA) for the projects a few months ago.<br /><br />Elbit Systems was working with General Dynamics European Land Systems (GDELS) and Excalibur Army/Czechoslovak Group to offer the Sabrah Light Tank family using the ASCOD 2 tracked armored vehicle and the Pandur II 8x8 wheeled armored vehicle are platforms.<br /><br />Also, Elbit Systems was working with IVECO Defense Vehicles for the Wheeled APC project, which offered to use the Guarani 6x6 wheeled APC. <br /><br /></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj-VhK6OPzH7hbllWynWWcIuTfz-F5HSVstZNahdjTkNn0gq2mx8xhoGtQMirJyvhJqr-_XdOBkJOKd548EqUt5gqMofRr50Q5MDIebXbdTzFjVRd6-JjT0FkMwtR8NbC58pGj72Wc5R6s/s811/Sabrah.PNG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: arial;"><img border="0" data-original-height="383" data-original-width="811" height="302" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj-VhK6OPzH7hbllWynWWcIuTfz-F5HSVstZNahdjTkNn0gq2mx8xhoGtQMirJyvhJqr-_XdOBkJOKd548EqUt5gqMofRr50Q5MDIebXbdTzFjVRd6-JjT0FkMwtR8NbC58pGj72Wc5R6s/w640-h302/Sabrah.PNG" width="640" /></span></a></div><p><span style="font-family: arial;"><br /></span></p><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjRZ_mABzFE6Q_cW_b6FTSTAfb_ura2vXvgZk2fQ-uIWeWQEHnAiasrBPUEdUzDFNyTZbtVjakEKpYXpC0VoAMO2YaYtleKvZYBdTPMjzi8ieydcbRGKIWxhMWmcQKJmupspvgVHEBCRXY/s760/020147_5cace79e42ae3_guarani.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><span style="font-family: arial;"><img border="0" data-original-height="500" data-original-width="760" height="422" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjRZ_mABzFE6Q_cW_b6FTSTAfb_ura2vXvgZk2fQ-uIWeWQEHnAiasrBPUEdUzDFNyTZbtVjakEKpYXpC0VoAMO2YaYtleKvZYBdTPMjzi8ieydcbRGKIWxhMWmcQKJmupspvgVHEBCRXY/w640-h422/020147_5cace79e42ae3_guarani.jpg" width="640" /></span></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial;">The Sabrah Light Tanks using the GDELS ASOCD 2 tracked, and GDELS-Excalibur Army Pandur II 8x8 wheeled armored vehicles as platforms (top), and the IVECO Guarani, all offered by Elbit Systems Land & C4I to the Philippine Army. Top photo from Elbit Systems, above photo from IVECO.</span></td></tr></tbody></table><span style="font-family: arial;"><br /><b><u><span style="color: red;"><br /></span></u></b><b><u><span style="color: red;">What Happened in the past few months:</span></u></b></span><p></p><p><span style="font-family: arial;">MaxDefense previously mentioned in past posts and blogs, as well as in our extension Philippine Defense Resource, that as as October 2019, the Department of National Defense (DND) already released a Acquisition Decision Memorandum (ADM) that points to the Light Tank and Wheeled APC Projects to be acquired through Government-to-Government (G2G) process.<br /><br />This was later affirmed in April 2020 with the PA and DND finally confirming that the project would be undertaken with the Israeli Ministry of Defense's International Defense Cooperation Directorate (MOD-SIBAT). So far, IMOD-SIBAT has assigned only Elbit Systems as their proponent.<br /><br />The DND was already preparing the details and terms for the project's contract when the Philippine government decided to stop international travel and close the country due to COVID-19 pandemic. </span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial;">This delayed the entire process since both the Light Tank and Wheeled APC projects were among those affected by the realignment and diversion of funding as covered by Republic Act 11469, or the Bayanihan to Heal and One Act.<br /><br />The Light Tank's 1st MYCA allocation worth Php1,422,649,800.00 provided under GAA FY2019, and the Wheeled APC's 1st and 2nd MYCA allocations worth Php339,780,000.00 and Php792,820,000.00 as provided by GAA FY2019 and FY2020, respectively were among those included in the fund diversions/<br /><br />But not all was lost. Due to the realignment, the Armed Forces of the Philippines and the DND revised its funding plan for FY2020, by identifying which projects from the original GAA FY2019 and FY2020 are the most important. Among those considered important were the Light Tank and Wheeled APC projects. This allowed both projects to be re-assigned with funding of what remained of the GAA FY2019 and FY2020 funds.<br /><br />Thus, the 1st MYCA for the Light Tank worth Php1,422,649,800.00 and the 1st MYCA for the Wheeled APC worth Php339,780,000.00 were restored. They only adjusted the project's delivery schedule which is now to be completed by 2022 instead of 2021. The 3rd and final MYCA allocations for both projects were also moved to be funded under FY2022. This revision was approved by the DND and national government on May 2020, and paved the way to continue with the finalization of both projects.<br /><br />As early as August 2020, MaxDefense already received confirmation that the DND has released Notices of Awards (NOA) for both projects to Elbit Systems Land & C4I, which also represented their partners in the project.<br /><br />When Elbit Systems formally included the Sabrah Light Tank family into their portfolio as posted on their website since last August 2020, it was actually a heads-up that something positive already happened. The information was also confirmed by MaxDefense sources who were familiar with the project.<br /></span></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial;"><iframe allowfullscreen="" class="BLOG_video_class" height="348" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/YT2pqM9LefM" width="480" youtube-src-id="YT2pqM9LefM"></iframe></span></div><span style="font-family: arial;"><br /></span><p><span style="font-family: arial;"><br />And since the Wheeled APC would be closely tied to the Light Tank Project, it was expected that it would also be reaching the same milestone.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial;">With the funding allocation for both projects already released, its only a matter of time for both project to proceed further.<br /><br /><b><u><span style="color: red;">How the Projects were Won?</span></u></b></span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial;">Honestly, these 2 projects are one of the tightest competitions in the AFP Modernization Program due to it not undergoing public tender, which means decision making from the Philippine Army and DND are based on other factors aside from price.<br /><br />In this case, Elbit Systems' best selling point was the inclusion of Battlefield Management System, Command & Control, Fire Control, and Communication systems that are common and compatible, or to be compatible with existing and future networked systems that the PA and the AFP are introducing. And obviously, Elbit's competitors in both projects cannot offer subsystems that are compatible to what the AFP will be using.<br /><br />The installation of the Elbit Torch-X battlefield management system, the Combat NG command and control system, and the E-LynX software defined radios on the Sabrah ASCOD 2, Sabrah Pandur II, and the Guarani vehicles would allow seamless networked connectivity to each other and to other units using the same systems.<br /><br />While Hanwha Defense did offer to install a Korean-made BMS into its Light Tank and Wheeled APC offers, it does not work with the Israeli BMS and communications system already in use or ordered by the Philippine Army and the Armed Forces of the Philippines.</span></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj37wSQhNfu6FPxHIpSZmZhy4JWiJD3suFwQ3agTjmcjTvw3nYZLJDP_KwrK0FcETNP5abUwY4yd-7cBOI7Q7-4ClGmU40g1pl3EUCFJDGizWnOTiMlmU9z-7Z2a5iPmOa7z2NjOiiMj-M/s797/Torch-X+2.PNG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: arial;"><img border="0" data-original-height="347" data-original-width="797" height="278" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj37wSQhNfu6FPxHIpSZmZhy4JWiJD3suFwQ3agTjmcjTvw3nYZLJDP_KwrK0FcETNP5abUwY4yd-7cBOI7Q7-4ClGmU40g1pl3EUCFJDGizWnOTiMlmU9z-7Z2a5iPmOa7z2NjOiiMj-M/w640-h278/Torch-X+2.PNG" width="640" /></span></a></div><span style="font-family: arial;"><br /></span><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhOcMU0sSMmMD5SltO2NnN47L6w2ylKM3FknRG4a5crZ-YRskn0uXjTc7vj2fZT_hSq81Xdqb67pkX9mL7pargRKBF6QssDvyFgsZqSAS5TSJTmwoJ7kHz_0Si-4wge48uszxLe58vkAB8/s768/elynx.PNG" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><span style="font-family: arial;"><img border="0" data-original-height="481" data-original-width="768" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhOcMU0sSMmMD5SltO2NnN47L6w2ylKM3FknRG4a5crZ-YRskn0uXjTc7vj2fZT_hSq81Xdqb67pkX9mL7pargRKBF6QssDvyFgsZqSAS5TSJTmwoJ7kHz_0Si-4wge48uszxLe58vkAB8/w640-h400/elynx.PNG" width="640" /></span></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial;">Both the Torch-X battlefield management system (top) and the E-LynX software defined MANET radio (above) would be installed on the Sabrah tanks and Guarani wheeled APCs.</span></td></tr></tbody></table><p><span style="font-family: arial;"><br />Another selling point is the non-usage of Belgian-made turrets and guns, due to the ongoing arms export restrictions made by the Wallonia regional government of Belgium against the Philippines. Since Elbit's competitors on the Light Tank Project, Hanwha Defense-Otokar JV and PT Pindad, using John Cockerill's C3105 turret and 105mm guns made in Belgium, it is expected that there are chances of delays or problems that may happen should the Light Tank project be awarded to the losing proponents.<br /><br />Sabrah's turret was made by Elbit Systems with assistance from the Israel Defense Force's Ordnance Corps MANTAK (the same designer of the Merkava tank's turret), replacing an earlier proposal that used the Oto Melara Hitfact turret. The changes were made due to the requirement for an autoloading system, a better firing arc for the gun, and lower cost.</span></p><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjxs48ro6p6GVWOMzhAXPLK84w_m55ZHlnmY02tyco51g5ISy3XTkBjfn4qea_FKdR9q6AGOKng7xOZBBxnEpp_NPcz-kjIrlg-JbG18VlInpFMGmySuWAE8TXhlGo1dEiMTuBN9dAFy_Y/s368/Sabrah+Turret.PNG" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><span style="font-family: arial;"><img border="0" data-original-height="220" data-original-width="368" height="382" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjxs48ro6p6GVWOMzhAXPLK84w_m55ZHlnmY02tyco51g5ISy3XTkBjfn4qea_FKdR9q6AGOKng7xOZBBxnEpp_NPcz-kjIrlg-JbG18VlInpFMGmySuWAE8TXhlGo1dEiMTuBN9dAFy_Y/w640-h382/Sabrah+Turret.PNG" width="640" /></span></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial;">The Sabrah's turret was made by Elbit Systems with assistance from the Israel Defense Force's Ordnance Corps MANTAK, the same team that designed and built the Merkava tank's turret. Photo taken from Elbit Systems.</span></td></tr></tbody></table><p><span style="font-family: arial;"><br />Other factors also were considered, including the lack of users of PT Pindad's Harimau tank, and better performance by the winning products over their competitors, although those mentioned above are said to be the main reasons.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial;"><br /><b><u><span style="color: red;">Why Guarani 6x6 for Wheeled APC, and not Pandur II 6x6?<br /></span></u></b><br />Another main point that many of our readers have been asking, is why did Elbit Systems offered to use the IVECO Guarani 6x6 for its Wheeled APC offer, rather than use the GDELS/Excalibur Army Pandur II 6x6?<br /><br />Commonality should have been a factor in deciding to go with Pandur II 6x6 since it shares a lot of parts and traits as the Pandur II 8x8 that Elbit offered for the Wheeled Tank component of the Light Tank project.<br /><br />According to Army sources, it was the Philippine Army's Technical Working Group who actually decided to go for the IVECO Guarani, as Elbit Systems offered both the Guarani 6x6 and Pandur II 6x6 for the project. But it appears that Pandur II was more expensive than the Guarani, since Guarani benefits from cheaper Brazilian labour and steel compared to the Pandur II which is produced in the Czech Republic.</span></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEillM-ELJHJ_7KfoI9m_5bnWMPthRTf_o1AeOe2dPMs2CdSVxOhKcNB1XdQQ-C6CMnYkXdaJNrBPzoOntKfVnLzJSrTv915T3ItxGvI0_a4o67RIXxElEjn_0_l0kyQCAUb4aFgMOt8UBE/s1600/2007idet_309_207.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><span style="font-family: arial;"><img border="0" data-original-height="576" data-original-width="842" height="436" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEillM-ELJHJ_7KfoI9m_5bnWMPthRTf_o1AeOe2dPMs2CdSVxOhKcNB1XdQQ-C6CMnYkXdaJNrBPzoOntKfVnLzJSrTv915T3ItxGvI0_a4o67RIXxElEjn_0_l0kyQCAUb4aFgMOt8UBE/s640/2007idet_309_207.jpg" width="640" /></span></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption"><span style="font-family: arial;">The Pandur II 6x6 wheeled armored vehicle, which is also among those offered to the Philippine Army. Credits to original source of the photo.</span></td></tr></tbody></table></div><p><span style="font-family: arial;">Also, if Elbit Systems offered to use IVECO's Italian-made SuperAV 8x8 wheeled armored vehicle for the Wheeled Tank component of the Light Tank project, it would also be more expensive than the Pandur II 8x8, thus the decision to stick with Pandur II 8x8.<br /><br />Honestly, this is one of the flaws in the Philippine defense procurement, as it makes more sense for the Philippine Army to have chosen the Pandur II 6x6 if cost is the only issue.</span></p><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgjx73XlDCmoQyaru4tzR7zT77nGJtgQykPcE2p5dOr08WB4Auzd6nCOqtL3b9NtN-PvoB7zke_mzuwNfW5PMaGC8UQbHm_O0Pf-0f84Rjd4am3uIrHk1vfuMB-sFYNI8P-c0-3V6hM-DU/s1600/SUPERAV01.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><span style="font-family: arial;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1067" data-original-width="1600" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgjx73XlDCmoQyaru4tzR7zT77nGJtgQykPcE2p5dOr08WB4Auzd6nCOqtL3b9NtN-PvoB7zke_mzuwNfW5PMaGC8UQbHm_O0Pf-0f84Rjd4am3uIrHk1vfuMB-sFYNI8P-c0-3V6hM-DU/w640-h426/SUPERAV01.jpg" width="640" /></span></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial;">The Guarani's 8x8 variant, called the SuperAV, was said to be more expensive than the Pandur II 8x8 as it was built in Italy by IVECO's main production line rather than in Brazil. </span></td></tr></tbody></table><p><span style="font-family: arial;"><br /><b><u><span style="color: red;">The Future:</span></u></b><br /><br />It remains to be seen if a Contract was already signed between Elbit Systems Land & C4I and the Department of National Defense, but the recent release of funding for both projects only means that this could be coming, or might have already been done since a contract can be signed with or without the funding allocation released by the DBM in favor of the DND. What MaxDefense can confirm through, is that there is no Notice to Proceed (NTP) yet, since the funds were only released last 21 October 2020.<br /><br />The release of NOA favoring Elbit Systems is another milestone reached by the DND and the Philippine Army in implementing the Horizon 2 phase of the Revised AFP Modernization Program. This also means that the only project meant for the Philippine Army's Armor Division is the M113 Firepower Upgrade Project, which <a href="https://maxdefense.blogspot.com/2019/04/philippine-army-to-convert-its-acv-300.html">MaxDefense Philippines discussed in a blog entry back in April 2019</a>.<br /><br />Since the Philippine Army originally requested for 144 Light Tanks and 114 Wheeled APCs in its original Horizon 2 Phase Proposal submitted in 2017, it remains to be seen if the Philippine Army will pursue the acquisition of 116 more light tanks and 86 more wheeled APCs under the Horizon 3 phase of the RAFPMP, which runs from 2023 to 2027.<br /><br />Anyway, MaxDefense Philippines would like to congratulate the Philippine Army, the Department of National Defense, Elbit Systems, General Dynamics European Land Systems, Excalibur Army / Czechoslovak Group, IVECO Defense Vehicles, and their local agents for pushing these 2 projects forward.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial;"><span><b><u><span style="color: red;">Project Summary:</span></u></b><br /><br /><b><u>Light Tank Acquisition Project:</u></b><br /><br /><i>Note: Edited as of 23 October 2020.</i><br /><br /><b>* End User:</b> Philippine Army (Armor Division)<br /><br /><b>* Quantity:</b> 18 tracked and 10 wheeled tanks, 1 armored command vehicle, 1 armored recovery vehicle.<br /><br /><b>* Modernization Phase:</b> Horizon 2 Phase Priority Projects of RAFPMP<br /><br /><b>* Project ABC:</b> Php9,484,332,000.00<br /><br /><b>* Acquisition Mode:</b> Government-to-Government (G2G) Procurement with Israeli government<br /><br /><b>* Source of Funding:</b> GAA Funds through AFP Modernization Program Trust Fund, to be paid via Multi-Year Obligatory Allocations (MYOA).<br /><br /><b>* SARO Release:</b> SARO-BMB-D-20-0017126 dated 15 October 2020, released 21 October 2020, worth Php1,422,649,800.00 for 15% initial payment.<br /><br /><b>* Winning Proponent:</b> Elbit Systems Land<br /><br /><b>* Product for Delivery:</b> </span><br /><span> - 18 Sabrah ASCOD 2 tracked tanks<br /></span><span> - 10 Sabrah Pandur II 8x8 wheeled tanks<br /></span><span> - 1 ASCOD 2 Armored Command Vehicle <br /></span><span> - 1 ASCOD 2 Armored Recovery Vehicle<br /> - All tanks to be equipped with Elbit turret and 105mm gun, E-LynX SDR, Torch-X BMS<br /> - Unspecified amount of 105mm tank gun ammunition</span></span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial;"><b>* Contract Price:</b> US$172,220,000.00 (approx. Php9,484,332,000.00), excluding exchange rate differentials.<br /><br /><b>* Residual Price: </b>Php930,831,000.00, to be used to cover for any exchange rate differential.<br /><br /><b>* First post by MaxDefense:</b> <a href="http://maxdefense.blogspot.com/2015/11/the-philippine-armys-options-for-new.html?fbclid=IwAR2Ljmj1nalDKRjLTaQzbHM_QMZK0pSQUUS4EtGSKPFWwNV7wQF8u7cIPfU"><span style="color: blue;">15 November 2015</span></a><br /><br /><b>* MaxDefense Searching Hashtag:</b> #PALightTankAcquisition<br /><br /><b>* Status:</b> Notice of Award (NOA) released in favor of Elbit Systems Land & C4I on 3rd quarter 2020. Contract and Notice to Proceed (NTP) pending, expected to be released before end of 2020.<br /><br /></span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial;"><span><b><u>Wheeled Armored Personnel Carrier (APC) Acquisition Project:</u></b><br /><br /><i>Note: Edited as of 23 October 2020.</i><br /><br /><b>* End User:</b> Philippine Army (Armor Division)<br /><br /><b>* Quantity:</b> 28 units<br /><br /><b>* Modernization Phase:</b> Horizon 2 Priority Projects of RAFPMP<br /><br /><b>* Project ABC:</b> Php2,265,200,000.00<br /><br /><b>* Acquisition Mode:</b> Government-to-Government (G2G) Procurement with Israeli Ministry of Defense.<br /><br /><b>* Source of Funding:</b> General Appropriations Act (GAA) starting FY2020<br /><br /><b>* SARO Release:</b> SARO-BMB-D-20-0017340 worth Php339,780,000.00 (15% initial payment) dated 19 October 2020, released 21 October 2020.<br /><br /><b>* Winning Proponent:</b> Elbit Systems Land<br /><br /><b>* Product for Delivery:</b> </span><br /><span> - 28 units of IVECO Guarani wheeled 6x6 Armored Personnel Carriers (APC) </span><br /><span> - Mounted with a manned turret armed with a 12.7mm heavy machine gun and 40mm automatic grenade launcher</span><br /><span> - Options to alternatively equip with remote-controlled weapon station (RCWS) with a 12.7mm heavy machine gun.<br /></span></span><span style="font-family: arial;"> - Equipped with Elbit Torch-X BMS, E-LynX SDR</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial;"><span><b>* Contract Price:</b> Php2,265,200,000.00<br /><br /><b>* Residual Price: </b>Php0.00<br /><br /><b>* First post by MaxDefense: </b><span style="color: blue;"><a href="https://www.facebook.com/MaxDefense/posts/329596527211011">15 November 2015</a><br /></span><b><br />* MaxDefense Searching Hashtag:</b> #PAWheeledAPCAcquisition<br /><br /><b>* Status:</b> Notice of Award (NOA) released in favor of Elbit Systems Land on 3rd quarter 2020. Contract and Notice to Proceed (NTP) pending, expected to be released before end of 2020.</span></span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial;">===============<br /></span><span style="font-family: arial;">===============<br />First edit and release: 23 October 2020<br />Copyright MaxDefense Philippines<br /></span></p><div><span style="clear: left; display: inline; font-family: arial; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiYWXCNgEKjy9PvhyXm0jmw-UnztULhhX9_GTnNx_JypEfRUOe07Cmiy5RovWdombNpNjDgXqOLGsfr3ebf42GCzvvv9mgDCJupEGN2BfPWB07rMXH1PWyeHsOmXJDQ-oAMnohCrulGckI/s1600/20160919_073729.jpg" style="clear: left; display: inline; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="227" data-original-width="961" height="46" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiYWXCNgEKjy9PvhyXm0jmw-UnztULhhX9_GTnNx_JypEfRUOe07Cmiy5RovWdombNpNjDgXqOLGsfr3ebf42GCzvvv9mgDCJupEGN2BfPWB07rMXH1PWyeHsOmXJDQ-oAMnohCrulGckI/s200/20160919_073729.jpg" width="200" /></a></span></div>max monterohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16217644456257635987noreply@blogger.com7tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3838050795464426329.post-74508505046584753902020-10-03T23:31:00.005+10:002020-10-23T20:08:41.097+11:00Philippine Air Force to start receiving its Rafael Spyder Ground-Based Air Defense System in 2021<p><span style="font-family: arial;"><br />It has been a while since our last blog entry on the Philippine Air Force's (PAF) Ground Based Air Defense System (GBADS) Acquisition Project. Our last blog entry on the project, which was posted on 26 December 2018, talks about the selection of the Rafael SPYDER Air Defense System (ADS) for the project.</span></p><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgHHGsXwRwqcNlWZBseUS44TnvGJFupOD1AJDlJfFoGRZhr-gJfGkSLYd0pzV2cS4rN3HfqFLnUTs415tJHVQ8PNOWm9p3JiGkoZXKiQCOEYu_1xwSZVi5NLTOdlFlhwXJgzU4hiydD0N0/s925/LAND_SAM_SPYDER_MR-SR_CONOPS_Comparison_lg.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><span style="font-family: arial;"><img border="0" data-original-height="486" data-original-width="925" height="336" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgHHGsXwRwqcNlWZBseUS44TnvGJFupOD1AJDlJfFoGRZhr-gJfGkSLYd0pzV2cS4rN3HfqFLnUTs415tJHVQ8PNOWm9p3JiGkoZXKiQCOEYu_1xwSZVi5NLTOdlFlhwXJgzU4hiydD0N0/w640-h336/LAND_SAM_SPYDER_MR-SR_CONOPS_Comparison_lg.jpg" width="640" /></span></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial;">The Rafael SPYDER Air Defense System, which was selected for the PAF's GBADS Acquisition Project. Photo credits to Rafael.</span></td></tr></tbody></table><p><span style="font-family: arial;"><br /><b><u><span style="color: red;">What Happened Since December 2018:</span></u></b></span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial;">Back in December 2018, MaxDefense announced that the Philippine Air Force has selected the Rafael SPYDER ADS for its GBADS requirement, beating out other competitors including offerings from Germany, South Korea, Russia, India, and other countries.<br /><br />Despite the selection in December 2018, a Notice of Award (NOA) was only provided to Rafael in June 2019, and a contract was only signed between Rafael and the DND by 3rd quarter 2019.<br /><br />3 batteries of SPYDER Air Defense System are covered in the contract, with each battery having a classified number of Missile Firing Units (MFU), a Command and Control Unit (CCU), and other support vehicles and systems.<br /><br />As part of the contract, an initial 15% of the contract worth Php1.027 billion was released in June 2019, which constitutes the 1st of 3 Multi-Year Contractual Authority (MYCA) for the project. The Philippine government is expected to release the 2nd and 3rd repayments by 2020 and 2021.<br /><br />Not much have happened after, since the contract was already signed and all the PAF needs to do is wait and do inspections as the units bound for the Philippines are manufactured, while the Philippine government allocates the multi-year funding for it until 2021.<br /></span></p><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhC97JaJPz7-HS1Kk2G7makH5H-Ot8q03OJ-51dIGJFGnSgEI96RtYjBMcV27k8eqe7aDs5JTcQONJHB15BPYLP7nocGq9CR7RSafMwGNPgaNoDv6z1rkVXkQo-aEhKcrJh9vQWPcySZqI/s800/Rafael-Spyder-SR.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><span style="font-family: arial;"><img border="0" data-original-height="534" data-original-width="800" height="428" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhC97JaJPz7-HS1Kk2G7makH5H-Ot8q03OJ-51dIGJFGnSgEI96RtYjBMcV27k8eqe7aDs5JTcQONJHB15BPYLP7nocGq9CR7RSafMwGNPgaNoDv6z1rkVXkQo-aEhKcrJh9vQWPcySZqI/w640-h428/Rafael-Spyder-SR.jpg" width="640" /></span></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial;">A SPYDER SR/ER ADS missile firing unit. Photo credits to original source.<br /></span></td></tr></tbody></table><span style="font-family: arial;"><br /></span><p><b><u><span style="color: red; font-family: arial;">The Good News:</span></u></b></p><p><span style="font-family: arial;">Let's start with the good news.<br /><br />Based on the project's contract between the Department of National Defense (DND) and Rafael Advance Defense Systems (Rafael), the delivery of the 3 batteries of Rafael SPYDER Air Defense System for the Philippine Air Force would be in 2021.<br /><br />Also, Rafael could be delivering, or may have already delivered the initial deliverable as part of the project, including equipment for training, testing and support equipment, and spare parts for the PAF's SPYDER Air Defense System within 2020.<br /><br />These development means the Philippine Air Force is getting closer in having a ground based air defense missile system to defend critical air bases and other interests.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial;"><b><u></u></b></span></p><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjvViF1zdfrj_MIiMCV5xKoBrRowkSrNbo-w0mDEVSIbkOM1w36LiQ9Z4P4rtpApfgTYhBVsR9Fvsvc4sOuStYYXx_pEdUIiYCaLHSiq92oqJaHEri36qIZS6NyiZxdsFcHHG01Wl3BC5s/s678/I-Derby.gif" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="381" data-original-width="678" height="360" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjvViF1zdfrj_MIiMCV5xKoBrRowkSrNbo-w0mDEVSIbkOM1w36LiQ9Z4P4rtpApfgTYhBVsR9Fvsvc4sOuStYYXx_pEdUIiYCaLHSiq92oqJaHEri36qIZS6NyiZxdsFcHHG01Wl3BC5s/w640-h360/I-Derby.gif" width="640" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Rafael Python V and Derby missiles. Credits to original source of photo.</td></tr></tbody></table><span style="font-family: arial;"><b><u><span style="color: red;"><br /></span></u></b><b><u><span style="color: red;">The Bad News:</span></u></b></span><p></p><p><span style="font-family: arial;">Now for the not so happy news.<br /><br />Previously MaxDefense reported that the SPYDER ADS that the Philippine Air Force could be getting could be the SPYDER-MR (Medium Range) version, since the PAF's pre-procurement evaluations, PAF and DND documents about the project, and information from sources all pointed out to a medium-range system to be procured under the GBADS Acquisition Project.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial;">Back then there were only 2 options available for the SPYDER ADS: the SPYDER SR (Short Range) which has a maximum engagement range of 20 kilometers, and the SPYDER MR (Medium Range) with a maximum engagement range of 60 kilometers.<br /></span></p><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhIInD_gmtrB_5_XN598pLSzXJldgFmV_Vwx4KckwjTTqu8TLGzfXmVcoA-JAGo0lNej9akxd8qbvAmxcvHHQjesmdorq9nLx-yPgGm6OosGcdCR3pCU3_1ra_iBIpI-qHAkZq_38syzZM/s985/ETeI5cZU8AE8q_o.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><span style="font-family: arial;"><img border="0" data-original-height="854" data-original-width="985" height="554" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhIInD_gmtrB_5_XN598pLSzXJldgFmV_Vwx4KckwjTTqu8TLGzfXmVcoA-JAGo0lNej9akxd8qbvAmxcvHHQjesmdorq9nLx-yPgGm6OosGcdCR3pCU3_1ra_iBIpI-qHAkZq_38syzZM/w640-h554/ETeI5cZU8AE8q_o.jpg" width="640" /></span></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial;">The infographic above shows the difference between the SPYDER SR and SPYDER MR. The PAF appears to have ordered the SPYDER ER which is essentially a SPYDER SR but using I-Derby ER extended range missiles.</span></td></tr></tbody></table><div><span style="font-family: arial;"><br />This was further reinforced by the fact that a separate requirement was planned for a short-range system, which was supposed to be part of the Horizon 2 phase, but was moved to the Horizon 3 phase from 2023 to 2028 due to funding shortage. Originally the PAF was planning to acquire 3 Medium Range and 4 Short Range GBADS Batteries as part of Horizon 2.</span></div><span style="font-family: arial;"><br /></span><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiIsGXkz0_7jjtSMB19OhrEbWPOKmmJDQzjp-B1ir9xGMABhaipBpf1rgCuSRomToWVZ89WNufm0IP98SJYPHPdM0KStnb8z0Cpd76zX3d0ZqJ3nlsQchn0C0pnTNAst3rbPifU1njCjxc/s658/rounded_corner.php_.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><span style="font-family: arial;"><img border="0" data-original-height="361" data-original-width="658" height="352" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiIsGXkz0_7jjtSMB19OhrEbWPOKmmJDQzjp-B1ir9xGMABhaipBpf1rgCuSRomToWVZ89WNufm0IP98SJYPHPdM0KStnb8z0Cpd76zX3d0ZqJ3nlsQchn0C0pnTNAst3rbPifU1njCjxc/w640-h352/rounded_corner.php_.jpg" width="640" /></span></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial;">The PAF was interested in the Thales Force Shield Short Range GBADS before it was decided to move the SHORAD section of the GBADS Project to Horizon 3 phase. Photo taken from Thales.<br /></span></td></tr></tbody></table><span style="font-family: arial;"><br /></span><p><span style="font-family: arial;">But based on recent documents from the government, and information provided by defense sources and contributors, the Philippine Air Force appears to be only getting the SPYDER ER (Extended Range), which is essentially a SPYDER SR including the use of the SR's shorter-ranged radar system, but will be capable of using the Rafael I-Derby ER extended range missiles that allows a maximum engagement range of 35-40 kilometers on a clear day.</span></p><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEikAV3vj4t7OocJXhOFTHDulrC4uebJG74oV82lK40ItnFhs2WrtzbgOXAOjzPcfSZPzT6LTX2_MOzwHfjFT9FzlddWLP5mAKEx1Jg9FdqQSzJ9E29Xg036OR2pAvW288DXICSaQxjXUmQ/s736/1197.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><span style="font-family: arial;"><img border="0" data-original-height="552" data-original-width="736" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEikAV3vj4t7OocJXhOFTHDulrC4uebJG74oV82lK40ItnFhs2WrtzbgOXAOjzPcfSZPzT6LTX2_MOzwHfjFT9FzlddWLP5mAKEx1Jg9FdqQSzJ9E29Xg036OR2pAvW288DXICSaQxjXUmQ/w640-h480/1197.jpg" width="640" /></span></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial;">SPYDER ER ADS uses the same IAI Elta EL/M-2016 ATAR radar used by the SPYDER SR ADS. The PAF already has one EL/M-2016NG radar in service.</span></td></tr></tbody></table><p><span style="font-family: arial;"><br />This means that the fire control radar of the PAF's GBADS will also be the less-capable IAI Elta EL/M-2016 ATAR radar similar to the one donated by IAI Elta to the PAF as part of the Air Surveillance Radar Phase 1 project. This is instead of the longer ranged, more capable IAI Elta EL/M-2084 3D AESA radar that has better detection ranges and is the same radar used in the Iron Dome system.<br /><br />Aside from using the SPYDER ER, it also turns out that the PAF will be getting the minimum configuration for a typical SPYDER ADS battery, in terms of number of launchers and support system. This means less teeth than expected to defend air bases from airborne threats.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial;"><b><span style="color: red;"><u>Saving Grace:<br /></u></span></b><br />Despite the bad news, there is still some saving grace that can still save this project in the years to come.<br /><br />Since the SPYDER Air Defense System can be configured and re-configured depending on the end user's requirements, the Philippine Air Force can still improve the system once it is in service.<br /><br />Additional firing units and supporting systems can be ordered later on and added to the existing SPYDER ER batteries. This can be done either as part of another phase of the AFP Modernization Program, or a gradual improvement that can be done by the PAF without relying on the AFP Modernization Program.<br /><br />Also, it appears that the Philippine Air Force will be acquiring additional GBADS as part of the Horizon 3 phase covering fiscal years 2023 to 2028, as it plans to increase coverage of air defense systems to more location in the country.<br /><br />And hopefully, this time the PAF may include longer-ranged systems including medium range (beyond 50 kilometer range), and long range systems.<br /></span></p><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi3O9uCcPNzkWNXM7jFUeNXqRzwNef4hkd0nsdr2sVSnvxUvEVQNXqH4YCpQxkFLLjf4d40v-MjK6mP3FCIJeaTH7xGQKThEHvvxUYRsByx6jlUbxgxJVgnGFMl9RLD2bwfzQqYGWokJqQ/s1586/b0120821_4cc2d7652f56e.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><span style="font-family: arial;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1112" data-original-width="1586" height="448" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi3O9uCcPNzkWNXM7jFUeNXqRzwNef4hkd0nsdr2sVSnvxUvEVQNXqH4YCpQxkFLLjf4d40v-MjK6mP3FCIJeaTH7xGQKThEHvvxUYRsByx6jlUbxgxJVgnGFMl9RLD2bwfzQqYGWokJqQ/w640-h448/b0120821_4cc2d7652f56e.jpg" width="640" /></span></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial;">With the South Koreans becoming more active in the AFP Modernization Program, MaxDefense won't be surprised if the KM-SAM could be selected for the PAF's GBADS requirements in the future, if not additional and more advanced versions of the SPYDER ADS. Photo credits to original source.</span></td></tr></tbody></table><p><span style="font-family: arial;"><br />Until then, all we can do now is to wait for the deliveries to start coming in. MaxDefense would provide up-to-date information about this project, which will be covered by our extension page exclusively handling modernization projects, the Philippine Defense Resource.<br /><br />"<a href="https://www.phdefenseresource.com/2020/03/ground-based-air-defense-system-gbads.html"><b><i><span style="color: #2b00fe;">Ground Based Air Defense System (GBADS) Acquisition Project of the Philippine Air Force</span></i></b></a>"</span></p><p><b><u><span style="color: red; font-family: arial;"><br />Project Summary:</span></u></b></p><p><span style="font-family: arial;"><span><span face=""arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif"><b><u>Ground Based Air Defense System (GBADS) Acquisition Project</u></b></span><br /><span face=""arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif"><span face=""arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif"><i><br /></i></span><span face=""arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif"><i>Note: Edited as of 03 October 2020</i></span></span><br /><span face=""arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif"><b><br /></b><b>* End User:</b><span face=""arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif"> Philippine Air Force (Air Defense Command)</span></span><br /><span face=""arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif"><br /><b>* Quantity:</b> 3 batteries</span><br /><span face=""arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif"><span face=""arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif"><b><br /></b></span><span face=""arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif"><b>* Modernization Phase:</b></span><span face=""arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif"> Horizon 2 Phase of the Revised AFP Modernization Program (RAFPMP)</span></span><br /><span face=""arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif"><span face=""arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif"><br /><b>* Project ABC:</b></span><span face=""arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif"> Php6,846,750,000.00</span></span><br /><span face=""arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif"><span face=""arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif"><br /></span><span face=""arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif">* </span><b>Acquisition Mode</b><span face=""arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif">: Government-to-Government (G2G) deal with the Israeli government<br /><br /><b>* Source of Funding</b>: </span><span face=""arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif">GAA Funds through AFP Modernization Program Trust Fund</span></span><br /><span face=""arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif"><span face=""arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif"><b><br /></b><span face=""arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif"><span face=""helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif"><b>* SARO Release:</b> </span></span><br /><span face=""arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif"><span face=""helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif"> - 1st Tranche: SARO-BMB-D-19-004325 dated 04 June 2019 worth Php1,027,012,500.00 (15% Downpayment), released 06 June 2019<br /> - 2nd Tranche: SARO-BMB-D-20-0011482 dated 09 June 2019 worth Php2,396,362,500.00, released 11 June 2020.<br /></span></span> <br /><span face=""arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif"><span face=""helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif"><b>* Winning Proponent:</b> Rafael Advance Systems Ltd. (Israel)<br /><br />* <b>Product for Delivery:</b><br /> - 3 batteries of Rafael SPYDER Air Defense System<br /> - Associated radar systems, command and control systems, support vehicles, and ammunition (Python 5 and Derby missiles)</span></span><br /><span face=""arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif"><span face=""helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif"><br /></span></span><span face=""arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif"><span face=""helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif"><b>* Contract Price:</b><span face=""helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif"><span face=""arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif"> Php6,846,750,000.00</span></span></span></span><span face=""arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif"><span style="color: black;"><span face=""helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif"><br /></span><span face=""arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif"><br /><b>* Residual Price: </b>Php0.00<br /><br />* </span></span><span face=""arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif"><b>First post by MaxDefense:</b> <a href="https://maxdefense.blogspot.com/2013/06/israeli-spyder-air-defense-missile.html"><span style="color: blue;">18 June 2013</span></a></span></span><br /><b><br /></b><b>* Searching Hashtag:</b><span face=""arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif"> </span><span face=""arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif">#PAFGBADSAcquisition</span><br /><span face=""arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif"><br /><b>* Status:</b> Notice of Award (NOA) released in favor of Rafael Advance Systems Ltd.</span> <span face="Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif">Delivery of initial batch expected to start early-mid 2021.</span> <span face="Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif">1st tranche payment released in June 2019, 2nd tranche payment released in June 2020. <br /></span><br />===============<br /></span></span></span></span><span style="font-family: arial;">===============<br />First edit and release: 03 October 2020<br />Copyright MaxDefense Philippines<br /></span></p><div style="text-align: left;"><span style="clear: left; display: inline; font-family: arial; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiYWXCNgEKjy9PvhyXm0jmw-UnztULhhX9_GTnNx_JypEfRUOe07Cmiy5RovWdombNpNjDgXqOLGsfr3ebf42GCzvvv9mgDCJupEGN2BfPWB07rMXH1PWyeHsOmXJDQ-oAMnohCrulGckI/s1600/20160919_073729.jpg" style="clear: left; display: inline; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="227" data-original-width="961" height="46" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiYWXCNgEKjy9PvhyXm0jmw-UnztULhhX9_GTnNx_JypEfRUOe07Cmiy5RovWdombNpNjDgXqOLGsfr3ebf42GCzvvv9mgDCJupEGN2BfPWB07rMXH1PWyeHsOmXJDQ-oAMnohCrulGckI/s200/20160919_073729.jpg" width="200" /></a></span></div><p></p>max monterohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16217644456257635987noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3838050795464426329.post-39803676838800184722020-09-24T23:39:00.005+10:002021-02-14T19:50:55.652+11:00Philippine Air Force plans to acquire at least 21 surplus Bell UH-1H Hueys from South Korea<p><span style="font-family: arial;">The Philippine Air Force's 205th Tactical Helicopter Wing (205th THW) celebrated its 58th Founding Anniversary today, 24 September 2020.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial;">As part of the program celebrating this milestone, PAF Air Mobility Command Commander Maj. Gen. Simeon Felix confirmed that the Philippine Air Force is intending to acquire additional air assets from South Korea, in the form of used Bell UH-1H Huey combat utility helicopters previously operated by the Republic of Korea Army (ROKA).</span></p><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiyxoqqktF4a8LLgrN2_K4KmJGStsUylXusIfHqk-n3m107ozCUE8iqEHlbgrEk6mTR4RDueBi4lPrrNvnaS_v6kiBIz2R3patKGy7ZUZ5j4Bo1qV5a0kmdC3r8LxGK6_zYXsp5w-Af61s/s512/unnamed+%25281%2529.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><span style="font-family: arial;"><img border="0" data-original-height="358" data-original-width="512" height="448" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiyxoqqktF4a8LLgrN2_K4KmJGStsUylXusIfHqk-n3m107ozCUE8iqEHlbgrEk6mTR4RDueBi4lPrrNvnaS_v6kiBIz2R3patKGy7ZUZ5j4Bo1qV5a0kmdC3r8LxGK6_zYXsp5w-Af61s/w640-h448/unnamed+%25281%2529.jpg" width="640" /></span></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: x-small;">One of the Bell UH-1H Huey combat utility helicopters of the Republic of Korea Army. Photo taken from and credited to <a href="http://blog.daum.net/hoon1144/5517196"><b>Hoon114's Blog</b></a>.</span></td></tr></tbody></table><p><span style="font-family: arial;"><br />This coincides with reports from South Korea that the South Korean Ministry of Defense has recently approved the potential transfer of retired military helicopters to the Philippine government, which <a href="https://www.facebook.com/MaxDefense/posts/1360669400770380">MaxDefense Philippines posted on its Facebook community page last 15 September 2020</a>.<br /><br />The Republic of Korea Army operated the UH-1 Huey since December 1968, with more than 120 units operated over the years. <a href="http://www.koreaherald.com/view.php?ud=20200727000289"><b>The ROKA finally retired the type last 31 July 2020</b></a>, and will be replaced by the locally-made and larger KAI KUH-1 Surion combat utility helicopter</span></p><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh88jmKkFQiKsX3dX6RgYAMU_oB1qDxFi33XnfvPUkDjR0f5ve-uD2-Upm-saFb4p4ZS5krDrf6Jqs-yPA-us4WAoZctjASm_6Kfk046Bzfx9GADrgg09F-wnRVvz2EVusYkGx3kW0J-QU/s2000/116337131_3058623727569327_5295298949250305757_o.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial;"><img border="0" data-original-height="963" data-original-width="2000" height="308" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh88jmKkFQiKsX3dX6RgYAMU_oB1qDxFi33XnfvPUkDjR0f5ve-uD2-Upm-saFb4p4ZS5krDrf6Jqs-yPA-us4WAoZctjASm_6Kfk046Bzfx9GADrgg09F-wnRVvz2EVusYkGx3kW0J-QU/w640-h308/116337131_3058623727569327_5295298949250305757_o.jpg" width="640" /></span></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: x-small;">The Republic of Korea Army has retired the UH-1H Huey helicopter last 31 July 2020, and will be replaced by the KUH-1 Surion helicopter. Photo taken from and credited to Bemil Korean Defense Page.</span></td></tr></tbody></table><p><span style="font-family: arial;"><br />This is a needed boost since the Philippine Air Force is grappling with lack of sufficient utility helicopters that would allow it to provide support to military units around the country.<br /><br />According to Maj. Gen. Felix, the PAF's Technical Working Group will be conducting an inspection of the helicopters being offered by the South Korean government by November 2020. It still remains to be seen in funding is available. Despite donated, the Philippine Air Force will still need to pay for other expenses including logistics and shipping, repair, training, and other ancillaries and administrative costs. This might still be worth a few hundred million pesos, unless if the Philippine Navy could assist in bringing in the helicopters using their <i>Tarlac</i>-class landing platform docks to help reduce the cost.<br /><br />Since these helicopters were from the US, approval to transfer the helicopters to another country is needed from the US government. MaxDefense Philippines expects the US government to have no objections to transferring these helicopters to the Armed Forces of the Philippines.<br /></span><span style="font-family: arial;"><br />The 205th Tactical Helicopter Wing currently operates a mixed fleet of former US Army Bell UH-1H Hueys, former German Army Dornier-Bell UH-1D Delta and Super Delta Hueys, and new Bell 412EP combat utility helicopters.</span></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgCnB5geF4AEH86mUhj_7BqBCRjYoEO9auyz1KN0XQLQmAiU04qZIqooGUbXqYkyZEp3aBYhyphenhyphenyfCUiP9YjzA_BC-bAKBZoqJ5dB39QmNkVTix7TTYjeF4U79h1n66cpX9H2tBDDHBGfYNw/s696/BELL-412CUH.png" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: arial;"><img border="0" data-original-height="465" data-original-width="696" height="428" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgCnB5geF4AEH86mUhj_7BqBCRjYoEO9auyz1KN0XQLQmAiU04qZIqooGUbXqYkyZEp3aBYhyphenhyphenyfCUiP9YjzA_BC-bAKBZoqJ5dB39QmNkVTix7TTYjeF4U79h1n66cpX9H2tBDDHBGfYNw/w640-h428/BELL-412CUH.png" width="640" /></span></a></div><p><span style="font-family: arial;"><br /></span></p><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgOo4omOQ4uGqA2E2Xor6cVMh_zSktw9soxbw4fjIthlo5DJDiMWrVrJiYmKbI6ATPZ7WSNfESfOC6XqL0MwGF9bRg7-5i0ei_3yo6_iThrnWhK-T9L9ypI_luqjSnHOyFUSOQhzW98ebQ/s950/53850297_918127411691250_3391957732050337792_n.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><span style="font-family: arial;"><img border="0" data-original-height="633" data-original-width="950" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgOo4omOQ4uGqA2E2Xor6cVMh_zSktw9soxbw4fjIthlo5DJDiMWrVrJiYmKbI6ATPZ7WSNfESfOC6XqL0MwGF9bRg7-5i0ei_3yo6_iThrnWhK-T9L9ypI_luqjSnHOyFUSOQhzW98ebQ/w640-h426/53850297_918127411691250_3391957732050337792_n.jpg" width="640" /></span></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: x-small;">The PAF currently operates the Bell 412EP (top), the UH-1D Delta Huey (above) and the UH-1H Huey combat utility helicopters. Photos credited to original sources.</span></td></tr></tbody></table><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial;"><br /><br /></span></div><span style="font-family: arial;">But the recent fatal incident involving one of the Dornier-Bell UH-1D Delta Huey helicopter in Cauayan, Isabela province last July 2020 has stressed the entire fleet since the Delta & Super Delta helicopters have been grounded while investigations continue on the crash.<br /><br />The PAF's Commanding General Lt. Gen. Allen Paredes also confirmed during the recent congressional hearing on FY2021 for the Department of National Defense (DND), the 205th THW has 10 more UH-1H Hueys that are in need of funding to allow their rehabilitation and retire to service.<br /><br />Despite expecting 6 brand new Sikorsky S-70i Black Hawk combat utility helicopters this year and 10 more Black Hawks in 2021, the Philippine Air Force is still desperately short of combat utility helicopters considering its ideal quantity is at least 130-140 units to make sure that 100 combat utility helicopters are available at any given day.<br /></span><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial;"><br /></span></div><span style="font-family: arial;"><br /></span><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjbu5GYv91qx_fZAHXytJj8g9nczmbt4z5GC4O8W8jvXunYHTcO4GPSjsHUsDx-RrnFEPVWQtPJ-zHB5dYEkRgdH05vw6fzG2nBb7B8CiNvd-P6XTT3I-VQjQ5jL2ix7FV4LQYpHRhdRpw/s1440/117414881_1333015476869106_6674677159362503518_o.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><span style="font-family: arial;"><img border="0" data-original-height="960" data-original-width="1440" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjbu5GYv91qx_fZAHXytJj8g9nczmbt4z5GC4O8W8jvXunYHTcO4GPSjsHUsDx-RrnFEPVWQtPJ-zHB5dYEkRgdH05vw6fzG2nBb7B8CiNvd-P6XTT3I-VQjQ5jL2ix7FV4LQYpHRhdRpw/w640-h426/117414881_1333015476869106_6674677159362503518_o.jpg" width="640" /></span></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: x-small;">The PAF is preparing to receive its first batch of 6 Sikorsky S-70i Black Hawk combat utility helicopters by October-November 2020, although these helicopters are not expected to be fully operational until 2021. 10 More S-70i Black Hawks are arriving in 2021. Photo shared to MaxDefense by aviation photographer Marcin Bobro.</span></td></tr></tbody></table><span style="font-family: arial;"><br /><br /></span><div><span style="font-family: arial;">The PAF also plans to acquire 16 brand new Mil Mi-171 transport helicopters from Russia, but has hit a roadblock due to inability to go around the sanctions posed by the US government's Countering America's Adversaries Through Sanctions Act (CAATSA). Apparently the Russian and Philippine governments have failed to find a way for the Philippine government to pay for the helicopters since banking institutions are not willing to assist for fear of backfire from CAATSA.<br /><br />Thus, acquiring surplus UH-1H from South Korea, which MaxDefense Philippines learned to be at least 21 units, would definitely help the PAF reach a higher operational capability in the short term.<br /><br />MaxDefense expects that these helicopters won't be operating for too long considering their age, but it could be good enough to provide an interim solution while the Philippine government is looking for ways to acquire more brand new Combat Utility Helicopters to eventually replace all their ageing UH-1 Huey fleet.<br /><br />This early, MaxDefense Philippines thanks the South Korean government for assisting the Armed Forces of the Philippines in improving its capabilities.</span></div><div><span style="font-family: arial;"><br /></span></div><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg_toX0Fdsi5T9kL3_8uymCbhPY_wQmxH6pQyCJzgcxx9SXAaJg45-yks7dmbhDf8pPdTN0-Gq51j-d9K98B1CZ6quL4l4b9ns5S0bGyc0YiZTrcAja4iB6_3RF2HdsdYr7r8aAwJSVO4M/s960/103968224_110501294043156_8182118650567504306_n.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><span style="font-family: arial;"><img border="0" data-original-height="600" data-original-width="960" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg_toX0Fdsi5T9kL3_8uymCbhPY_wQmxH6pQyCJzgcxx9SXAaJg45-yks7dmbhDf8pPdTN0-Gq51j-d9K98B1CZ6quL4l4b9ns5S0bGyc0YiZTrcAja4iB6_3RF2HdsdYr7r8aAwJSVO4M/w640-h400/103968224_110501294043156_8182118650567504306_n.jpg" width="640" /></span></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: x-small;">Congratulations to the Philippine Air Force and the 205th Tactical Helicopter Wing for reaching a new milestone in serving the Filipino people. Photo taken from 205th THW's Facebook page.</span></td></tr></tbody></table><div><span style="font-family: arial;"><br /><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-family: arial;">With relation to this new development, the planned transfer of surplus helicopters for the Philippine Army's Army Aviation Regiment (PA AAR) is still in the planning stage, although MaxDefense Philippines previously received information that the PA AAR is also interested in acquiring surplus combat utility helicopters as an interim measure while it starts building up its fleet.</span></div><div><span style="font-family: arial;"><br />It still remains to be seen though if the PA AAR will also be getting helicopters from South Korea, or from other countries like Japan and the US. <br /><br />The recent news wherein Senator Francis Tolentino mentioned about the donation of 4 UH-60 Black Hawk combat utility helicopters and AH-1 Cobra attack helicopters to the Philippine Army still remains a plan, as the Philippine Army contingent to inspect the condition of the helicopters have not yet been cleared to travel to the US for the inspection.<br /><br /></span><div><span style="font-family: arial;">===============<br /></span><span style="font-family: arial;">===============<br />First edit and release: 24 September 2020<br /></span><span style="font-family: arial;">Copyright MaxDefense Philippines</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiYWXCNgEKjy9PvhyXm0jmw-UnztULhhX9_GTnNx_JypEfRUOe07Cmiy5RovWdombNpNjDgXqOLGsfr3ebf42GCzvvv9mgDCJupEGN2BfPWB07rMXH1PWyeHsOmXJDQ-oAMnohCrulGckI/s1600/20160919_073729.jpg" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: arial;"><img border="0" data-original-height="227" data-original-width="961" height="46" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiYWXCNgEKjy9PvhyXm0jmw-UnztULhhX9_GTnNx_JypEfRUOe07Cmiy5RovWdombNpNjDgXqOLGsfr3ebf42GCzvvv9mgDCJupEGN2BfPWB07rMXH1PWyeHsOmXJDQ-oAMnohCrulGckI/s200/20160919_073729.jpg" width="200" /></span></a><div><span style="font-family: arial;"><br /></span></div></div></div>max monterohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16217644456257635987noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3838050795464426329.post-91868373644909788732020-09-23T16:08:00.007+10:002020-09-24T14:01:23.525+10:00Philippine Naval Special Operations Group receives 1st batch of new Fast Boats<p><br /><span style="font-family: arial;">The Philippine Navy (PN) has recently received the initial deliveries of new Rigid Hull Inflatable Boats (RHIB) that it acquired for the Naval Special Operations Group (NAVSOG) under its Fast Boat Acquisition Project.</span></p><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhNmKbTa_AY5CvbZUiKfrwi6QItO70lSmbKU-etv4J6c081W5osI8iv9ibyTCgS9ddoYaqLTN5HWZFcS2buYvSD3FLI70xUHpHbbwlkjkOqn90eDyKjrO7xEU0JnB5P9SDha6in_CKEjSI/s556/119750747_1245253779164922_1505620890161438741_n-1.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><span style="font-family: arial;"><img border="0" data-original-height="334" data-original-width="556" height="384" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhNmKbTa_AY5CvbZUiKfrwi6QItO70lSmbKU-etv4J6c081W5osI8iv9ibyTCgS9ddoYaqLTN5HWZFcS2buYvSD3FLI70xUHpHbbwlkjkOqn90eDyKjrO7xEU0JnB5P9SDha6in_CKEjSI/w640-h384/119750747_1245253779164922_1505620890161438741_n-1.jpg" width="640" /></span></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial;">Three of the six newly delivered RHIBs that arrived as the first batch of Fast Boats for the Philippine Navy. Photo exclusively shared to MaxDefense Philippines.<br /></span></td></tr></tbody></table><p><span style="font-family: arial;">The project, which is funded under the 2nd List of Horizon 1 phase, was meant to provide the NAVSOG's Special Boat Unit (SBU) with new additional boats to complement older fast boats in service, while also increasing its operational capabilities.<br /><b><u><span style="color: red;"><br />The Fast Boat Acquisition Project:</span></u></b></span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial;">The Philippine Navy included the acquisition of thirty (30) brand new fast boats for the NAVSOG SBU under the proposed PATROL BOAT LIGHT ACQUISITION PROJECT as part of the 2nd List of Horizon 1 phase, with a proposed budget of Php450 million., or around Php15 million for each boat.<br /><br />This was later revised due to budget issues, with the Philippine Navy renaming the project as the <b>FAST BOAT ACQUISITION PROJECT</b>, with a reduced budget of only Php300 million for twenty (20) brand new boats.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial;">The initial basic technical requirements were as follows:<br /><br />* Length: Function of design<br />* Beam: Function of design<br />* Draft: 0.50-0.60 meters<br />* Displacement: Function of design<br />* Speed: Not less than 45 knots at full throttle at full load<br />* Range: 150-200 nautical miles<br />* Complement: 3 boat crew + 8 passengers<br />* Gun Mount: 1 x .50 cal machine gun (front)<br />* Hull Type: Function of design (not wooden)<br />* Propulsion: At least 2 diesel-powered outboard motors<br />* Seaworthiness: Operate at Sea State 2, Survive at Sea State 3<br />* Delivery Period: 12 months</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial;">This requirement will become the basis although it can be further improved. One example is the gun mount, which was later on increased from one mount to three mounts (1 front, 2 rear).<br /><br />Several proposals were floated during the planning stage, which includes options using a Rigid Hull Inflatable Boat (RHIB) design, and several options using Fibre-Reinforced Plastic (FRP aka Fibreglass) and Aluminium hull designs.<br /><br />All options vary in size, displacement, speed, range, complement, propulsion, delivery times and cost.<br /><br />The cheapest appears to be similar to the FRP-hulled boats, made locally and used by Philippine National Police Maritime Group (PNP-MG) with 3 outboard motors, which can be acquired for less than Php4 million each. The most expensive option includes the US-made Small Unit Riverine Craft (SURC) which is used by the Philippine Marine Corps and US Marine Corps, and the US Special Operations Craft - Riverine (SOC-R) used by the US Navy which cost around Php35 million each.<br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhI3hPPm0_1btGI6S94-EY5ClShAZly74dt2Aqb2Nt0RvOQszP7CK3236AGQBLFG9ucnXYWUDgxs2nfc1SgIL_eu1kXBJjBXFz9EyYs_-t9UptvRPp2Ld4zoq9CbsxVK6n8wlKmdgJ3ZC4/s960/Als_Marine_High_Speed_Tactical_Watercraft.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="640" data-original-width="960" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhI3hPPm0_1btGI6S94-EY5ClShAZly74dt2Aqb2Nt0RvOQszP7CK3236AGQBLFG9ucnXYWUDgxs2nfc1SgIL_eu1kXBJjBXFz9EyYs_-t9UptvRPp2Ld4zoq9CbsxVK6n8wlKmdgJ3ZC4/w640-h426/Als_Marine_High_Speed_Tactical_Watercraft.jpg" width="640" /></a></span></p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhvfrqvGsVClgg50NuLAQ1MqBjuHsX23i52N-PN39bzXrR6jQhQFcZUVQAMT9tLsdzbjVng__NQr7EV_guWOCByPiIQbf9z7DW8wehl6l0F9u5uEyFzgJOvK_VAgyWeXSkaVQx7InJEsFU/s1200/null.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: arial;"><img border="0" data-original-height="615" data-original-width="1200" height="328" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhvfrqvGsVClgg50NuLAQ1MqBjuHsX23i52N-PN39bzXrR6jQhQFcZUVQAMT9tLsdzbjVng__NQr7EV_guWOCByPiIQbf9z7DW8wehl6l0F9u5uEyFzgJOvK_VAgyWeXSkaVQx7InJEsFU/w640-h328/null.jpg" width="640" /></span></a></div><span style="font-family: arial;"><br /></span><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEihR1dxb1awpcHOgQyWnbNCE8MxjWZIqGhRrQ_QSCP4Mm3txdKBHvOHXO_GFSLh2l3jibleUb9JtlF1C3R9YeyrGiI5jwZn7j-l0gBGJDEfPDKOnSUSw7cdMgRcUw781uuOe-LRk6LM-cU/s1024/36311154935_1a58ca0bda_b.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><span style="font-family: arial;"><img border="0" data-original-height="630" data-original-width="1024" height="394" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEihR1dxb1awpcHOgQyWnbNCE8MxjWZIqGhRrQ_QSCP4Mm3txdKBHvOHXO_GFSLh2l3jibleUb9JtlF1C3R9YeyrGiI5jwZn7j-l0gBGJDEfPDKOnSUSw7cdMgRcUw781uuOe-LRk6LM-cU/w640-h394/36311154935_1a58ca0bda_b.jpg" width="640" /></span></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial;">Among the options raised by the Philippine Navy include locally-made FRP hulled boats similar to those used by the PNP Maritime Group (top), the Small Unit Riverine Craft SURC (middle), and the Special Operations Craft - Riverine SOC-R (bottom). Credits to original sources of photos.<br /></span></td></tr></tbody></table><span style="font-family: arial;"><br /></span><p><span style="font-family: arial;">In the end, it appears that the Philippine Navy settled with their original plan to acquire RHIBs. But it remains to be seen if the quantity was reduced from 20 units to less than that. This is because there was a request made in 2017 to reduce the quantity from 20 units to just 10 units, using the same budget.<br /><br />But since RHIBs of this size does not cost more than Php12 million each, it is possible that the proposal remains at 20 units, subject to further confirmation.<br /><br /><b><u><span style="color: red;">Use of Diesel-Powered Motors:<br /></span></u></b><br />Another point of interest will be the decision of the Philippine Navy to specify the use of diesel outboard engines rather than petrol powered as most boats today.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial;">Apparently the decision of the Philippine Navy has strong ties to experience by the US Navy, which has specified the use of diesel-powered motors for boats carried by US Navy ships, instead of petrol powered motors that can produce higher power output and allow higher operating speeds.<br /><br />As explained to MaxDefense by one of our contributor from the defense industry, the US Navy started implementing the use of diesel fuel for small boats after a ship accident in 1995 that caused an explosive gasoline fire. This made the US Department of Defense directive to remove all gasoline powered engines and gasoline fuel tanks about US Navy ships from 2010.<br /><br />With the Philippine Navy following suit for safety reasons, it only means that the chances of these new fast boats being deployed aboard larger Philippine Navy ships like the Strategic Sealift Vessel / Landing Platform Docks, or even Offshore Patrol Vessels or other current and future surface combatants are quite high.<br /><br />Not only will the boats be conforming to the directive on removing gasoline powered engines and fuel tanks aboard Philippine Navy ships, but it also allows for the ease on storing fuel since most Philippine navy ships are diesel powered and have sufficient diesel fuel stored. Fast boats using diesel fuel allows for simplicity and commonality in fuel logistics.<br /><br />The use of 4 outboard motors instead of 3 as originally planned could also be due to the use of diesel motors, which have lesser power output than gasoline powered motors. </span></p><p><b><u><span style="color: red; font-family: arial;">Delivery to the Philippine Navy:</span></u></b></p><p><span style="font-family: arial;">After a public bidding conducted without fanfare, the winning bidder was Solanda Enterprises - Pacficfortia Marine Technologies Joint Venture, with a bid amount of Php228,130,000.00. This is Php71,780,000.00 lower than the allocated budget. A Notice of Award (NOA) was released in favor of the winning proponent on 27 February 2018, with the Notice to Proceed (NTP) released on 01 March 2018.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial;">Solanda Enterprises is the local distributor of Mercury marine engines, while Pacificfortia Marine Technologies carry the Treton brand of RHIBs. This means that based on their products, it can be assumed that the boats with be made by Treton and would be powered by <br /><br />Based on the contract, the products should be for delivery within 1 year, or by March 2019.<br /><br />The Department of Budget and Management (DBM) released the full amount of the contract on 08 March 2018, which enables the winning proponent to start the construction of the boats.<br /><br />It appears that Solanda Enterprises - Pacificfortia Marine Technologies JV failed to deliver the boats by March 2019, as we have noted that the first batch of 6 boats were delivered only last August 2020.<br /><br /></span></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiEvpWW5mkVH3K2NoafoW4YIofciS5NUfl6sX2CsRbf4eBFuotdQaGzC-bCLuh0YcmSmazmS4zIyLhKRGcXxV3UqbkbiKuKaJMP7H87IFEn0JHnrKqoec_N00PP74Z4i-sZdLVHYP1shPk/s1967/118472416_309190333752710_5631739034154848859_n.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: arial;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1025" data-original-width="1967" height="334" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiEvpWW5mkVH3K2NoafoW4YIofciS5NUfl6sX2CsRbf4eBFuotdQaGzC-bCLuh0YcmSmazmS4zIyLhKRGcXxV3UqbkbiKuKaJMP7H87IFEn0JHnrKqoec_N00PP74Z4i-sZdLVHYP1shPk/w640-h334/118472416_309190333752710_5631739034154848859_n.jpg" width="640" /></span></a></div><span style="font-family: arial;"><br /></span><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiLSHW_wX_S-SV3AbIX7NcuB_BxAbpa6XZ04T88ywiVvkhn1lEhj2W33qr1olKowXPOV2VL31Pj9xmCdtq_lTgPlYvIz2aWIm8pdMmIs3fZKrRnXPNn5OffFIPMj92dNhCpGHjghmXWI4Y/s1902/118109822_3552746308089320_3262438223938895237_n.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><span style="font-family: arial;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1035" data-original-width="1902" height="348" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiLSHW_wX_S-SV3AbIX7NcuB_BxAbpa6XZ04T88ywiVvkhn1lEhj2W33qr1olKowXPOV2VL31Pj9xmCdtq_lTgPlYvIz2aWIm8pdMmIs3fZKrRnXPNn5OffFIPMj92dNhCpGHjghmXWI4Y/w640-h348/118109822_3552746308089320_3262438223938895237_n.jpg" width="640" /></span></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial;">The new boats are seen here being delivered to the Philippine Navy's Sangley Point Base in Cavite last August 2020. Photos exclusively shared to MaxDefense Philippines.<br /></span></td></tr></tbody></table><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial;"><br /></span></div><p><span style="font-family: arial;">It still remains to be confirmed if the boats were indeed from Treton, since MaxDefense sources mentioned that the boats were probably built in South Korea.<br /><br />From the photos, it shows that the boats are powered by 4 outboard motors, most likely diesel-powered Mercury motors.<br /><br />The boats appear to be not yet inducted to the Philippine Navy, as training is still ongoing although it is expected to happen in the next few months. The NAVSOG SBU afterall are already training and experienced in operating these type of boats, and are familiar with the equipment installed on the boats.<br /><br /><br /></span><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhOmQFxFhv6pvLGvHuUkhxsLegEypYN4VFKkVl-odzXb6k5KNe_PZEnZVYPnZIacvi8DQNEjPhS9TtBvGMauEdH9NIeHxM6qu5nSMWRmsQhGCngJb5HjA5kneQpafRwUdBzwqsF1hig1Pk/s1024/7284950162_a2ef69954c_b.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="685" data-original-width="1024" height="428" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhOmQFxFhv6pvLGvHuUkhxsLegEypYN4VFKkVl-odzXb6k5KNe_PZEnZVYPnZIacvi8DQNEjPhS9TtBvGMauEdH9NIeHxM6qu5nSMWRmsQhGCngJb5HjA5kneQpafRwUdBzwqsF1hig1Pk/w640-h428/7284950162_a2ef69954c_b.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial;">NAVSOG operates several RHIBs in its fleet, although the new one appears to be larger than the one shown above. Photo taken from and credited to VJNorz's Flickr page.</span></td></tr></tbody></table></p><p><span style="font-family: arial;"><br /></span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial;">It also appears that the Philippine Navy procured several new automatic grenade launchers and machine guns which would be installed on these new fast boats. We received photos confirming this, although we were asked not to post them to protect our source.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial;"><br />It remains to be confirmed though if these were acquired separately, although most likely they were.</span></p><span style="font-family: arial;">It also remains to be seen on when the rest of the boats will be delivered to the Philippine Navy. So far, no new deliveries were confirmed to MaxDefense by our sources, although it is expected that more boats will arrive within the year.<br /><br />Congratulations to the Philippine Navy for these new additions to the fleet!<br /><br /><i>Note: MaxDefense tried to delay the release of this blog hoping that more boats would be delivrered. But it appears we have to wait for sometime for the rest of the new boats to arrive.</i><br /></span><p><b><u><span style="color: red; font-family: arial;"><br />Project Summary:</span></u></b></p><p><span style="font-family: arial;"><span face=""arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif"><b><u>Fast Boats Acquisition Project</u></b></span><br /><span face=""arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif"><span face=""arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif"><i><br /></i></span><span face=""arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif"><i>Note: Edited as of 23 September 2020</i></span></span><br /><span face=""arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif"><b><br /></b><b>* End User:</b><span face=""arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif"> Philippine Navy (Naval Special Operations Group)</span></span><br /><span face=""arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif"><br /><b>* Quantity:</b> at least 10 boats (exact quantity still for confirmation)</span><br /><span face=""arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif"><span face=""arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif"><b><br /></b></span><span face=""arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif"><b>* Modernization Phase:</b></span><span face=""arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif"> Second List of Horizon 1 Phase of the Revised AFP Modernization Program (RAFPMP)</span></span><br /><span face=""arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif"><span face=""arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif"><br /><b>* Project ABC:</b></span><span face=""arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif"> Php300,000,000.00</span></span><br /><span face=""arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif"><span face=""arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif"><br /></span><span face=""arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif">* </span><b>Acquisition Mode</b><span face=""arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif">: Public Bidding<br /><br /><b>* Source of Funding</b>: </span><span face=""arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif">GAA Funds through AFP Modernization Program Trust Fund</span></span><br /><span face=""arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif"><span face=""arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif"><b><br /></b></span><span face=""arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif"><b>* SARO Release:</b></span><span face=""arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif"> SARO-BMB-D-18-0004636 dated 08 March 2018</span></span><br /><span face=""arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif"><span face=""arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif"><b><br /></b></span><span face=""arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif"><b>* Winning Proponent:</b></span><span face=""arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif"> Solanda Enterprises - Pacficfortia Marine Technologies Joint Venture</span></span><br /><span face=""arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif"><span face=""arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif"><b><br /></b></span><span face=""arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif"><b>* Contract Price:</b></span><span face=""arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif"> Php228,130,000.00</span></span><br /><span face=""arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif"><span face=""arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif"><b><br /></b></span><span face=""arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif"><b>* Residual Price: </b>Php71,870,000.00</span></span><br /><span face=""arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif"><span face=""arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif"><b><br /></b></span><span face=""arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif"><b>* First post by MaxDefense: <a href="https://www.facebook.com/MaxDefense/posts/770375373133122"><span style="color: #2b00fe;">27 July 2018</span></a></b></span><span face=""arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif" style="color: #2b00fe;"><a href="https://www.facebook.com/MaxDefense/posts/770375373133122"> </a></span></span><br /><span face=""arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif"><span face=""arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif"><br /></span><b>* MaxDefense Searching Hashtag:</b><span face=""arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif"> #PNFastBoatAcquisition</span></span><br /><span face=""arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif"><span face=""arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif"><b><br /></b></span><span face=""arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif"><b>* Status:</b> Awarded to Solanda Enterprises - Pacificfortia Marine Technologies JV on February 2018, and Notice to Proceed was released on March 2018. Delivery scheduled for March 2019, delayed. First batch delivered on August 2020. More batches expected.</span></span><br /></span></p><div><span style="font-family: arial;">===============<br /></span><span style="font-family: arial;">===============<br />First edit and release: 23 September 2020<br /></span><span style="font-family: arial;">Copyright MaxDefense Philippines</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiYWXCNgEKjy9PvhyXm0jmw-UnztULhhX9_GTnNx_JypEfRUOe07Cmiy5RovWdombNpNjDgXqOLGsfr3ebf42GCzvvv9mgDCJupEGN2BfPWB07rMXH1PWyeHsOmXJDQ-oAMnohCrulGckI/s1600/20160919_073729.jpg" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: arial;"><img border="0" data-original-height="227" data-original-width="961" height="46" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiYWXCNgEKjy9PvhyXm0jmw-UnztULhhX9_GTnNx_JypEfRUOe07Cmiy5RovWdombNpNjDgXqOLGsfr3ebf42GCzvvv9mgDCJupEGN2BfPWB07rMXH1PWyeHsOmXJDQ-oAMnohCrulGckI/s200/20160919_073729.jpg" width="200" /></span></a></div><p><span style="font-family: arial;"><br /></span></p>max monterohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16217644456257635987noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3838050795464426329.post-88088295793913361132020-09-09T11:46:00.002+10:002020-09-23T22:47:24.204+10:00Philippine Air Force receives full delivery of Elbit Hermes 900 and Hermes 450 medium altitude long endurance UAVs<span style="font-family: arial;"><span face=""arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif"><br /></span>
<span face=""arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif">MaxDefense received confirmation from military and industry sources that the <b>Philippine Air Force (PAF) has received full delivery</b> of all nine (9) Hermes 900 and four (4) Hermes 450 medium altitude long endurance unmanned aerial vehicles (MALE UAV) from Israeli defense company Elbit Systems Ltd.</span><br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span face=""arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif" style="font-family: arial;">A Hermes 900 UAV during demonstrations at Fernando Air Base in Lipa, Batangas. Photo shared exclusively to MaxDefense.</span></td></tr>
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<span style="font-family: arial;"><span face=""arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif"><br /></span></span><div><span style="font-family: arial;"><span face=""arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif">The Philippine Air Force was expecting the delivery of 3 Hermes 900 and 1 Hermes 450 unmanned aerial systems (UAS) each comprising 3 UAVs, ground control system and support equipment, plus a spare used Hermes 450 UAV included by Elbit Systems as part of the deal, bringing a total of 13 flying UAVs.</span><br />
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<span face=""arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif">MaxDefense was first to report on the existence of the Philippine Air Force's Unmanned Aerial Systems Acquisition Project and the planned procurement of Hermes 900 and Hermes 450 UAVs back in August 2017, as part of the Horizon 2 phase priority projects of the Revised AFP Modernization Program.</span><br />
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<span face=""arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif">The PAF UAS Acquisition is actually the first big-ticket project of the Philippine Air Force under the Horizon 2 phase, as it was pushed even before the Horizon 2 phase was approved by Pres. Duterte in 2018.</span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhZAEYpbnSTmrlfwX1apflgdFGkhIhSfeET1DelmKxrySK6oGJSxSCevJ4Sn1bi6FIVFQYPC1bPKbnqmhYLtjBdXHpBT42xSL5LOlByAC4DKsqT9bg9cGCEeMB2Rf4dKjdrZssO-o2njCE/s1600/119006601_706709386857954_378726299246951273_n.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span face=""arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif" style="font-family: arial;"><img border="0" data-original-height="554" data-original-width="1024" height="346" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhZAEYpbnSTmrlfwX1apflgdFGkhIhSfeET1DelmKxrySK6oGJSxSCevJ4Sn1bi6FIVFQYPC1bPKbnqmhYLtjBdXHpBT42xSL5LOlByAC4DKsqT9bg9cGCEeMB2Rf4dKjdrZssO-o2njCE/s640/119006601_706709386857954_378726299246951273_n.jpg" width="640" /></span></a></div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span face=""arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif" style="font-family: arial;">The Hermes 900 (top) and Hermes 450 (above) as seen in PAF markings. Photos shared exclusively to MaxDefense.</span></td></tr>
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<b><u><span face=""arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif" style="color: red;">Delivery Completion by 2020:</span></u></b><br />
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<span face=""arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif">According to our sources, the last batch of Hermes 900 UAVs arrived in the Philippines last August 2020, although Elbit Systems' contract with the Department of National Defense (DND) is not yet complete as Elbit will need to complete all other requirements including establishment of ground facilities, training, logistics support and spares.</span><br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span face=""arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif" style="font-family: arial;">Hermes 900 production line in Elbit's facility in Israel. Photo taken from and credited to Elbit Systems Ltd.</span></td></tr>
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<span face=""arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif">It would be remembered that in the <a href="https://www.facebook.com/MaxDefense/photos/a.214163865420945/1288323088005012/?type=3&theater"><span style="color: blue;">Philippine Air Force's "Lead as One" publication released in mid-2020</span>,</a> it mentioned that the PAF is expecting the delivery of 2 UAS composed of 6 UAVs and ground support equipment.</span><br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg0ENq3ZiBp7Uu4C5umOy3QvpR3c8p981o-cdjFt1cLPDyMeEhdeEXWRAfpSFWfSs4xg1Xhd5jkWV1ytdCuT3CNlfV5o_gS8_hakap8Dw3PkVnYb1eKp03snUEw1pWDVV0QNEm83ZMgR-Q/s1600/103522228_1288323091338345_1754643371918091863_o.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><span face=""arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif" style="font-family: arial;"><img border="0" data-original-height="550" data-original-width="552" height="397" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg0ENq3ZiBp7Uu4C5umOy3QvpR3c8p981o-cdjFt1cLPDyMeEhdeEXWRAfpSFWfSs4xg1Xhd5jkWV1ytdCuT3CNlfV5o_gS8_hakap8Dw3PkVnYb1eKp03snUEw1pWDVV0QNEm83ZMgR-Q/s400/103522228_1288323091338345_1754643371918091863_o.jpg" width="400" /></span></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span face=""arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif" style="font-family: arial;">PAF outlining the upcoming delivery of Hermes 900 UAVs within 2020. Photo cropped from Lead As One PAF Publication.</span></td></tr>
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<span style="font-family: arial;"><span face=""arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif"><br />Aside from surveillance, the <a href="https://defencereviewasia.com/elbit-introduces-hermes-900-unmanned-search-and-rescue-capability-to-se-asia/"><span style="color: blue;">PAF's Hermes 900 fleet can also be deployed for maritime search and rescue</span></a>. While Elbit Systems has not identified the customer for their new Life Raft deployment capability, MaxDefense sources confirmed that it is indeed the Philippine Air Force.<br /><br />This could be useful in assisting ships in distress on the high seas, or even within Philippine territorial and archipelagic waters, allowing faster response in saving lives. Below is a video from Elbit Systems showing this new capability for the Hermes 900 UAV.</span></span></div><div><span style="font-family: arial;"><br />
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<b><u><span face=""arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif" style="color: red;">Hermes 900 and Hermes 450 in PAF Service:</span></u></b><br />
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<span face=""arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif">The UAVs will be operated by the PAF's 303rd Aerial Reconnaissance Group of the 300th Air Intelligence and Security Wing. The 303rd ARG divided the deployment of these new UAVs as well as existing ones like the Boeing Insitu ScanEagle 2 UAVs to different bases around the country, and training being conducted at the Philippine Army Aviation Regiment's base in Fort Magsaysay in Nueva Ecija.</span><br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span face=""arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif" style="font-family: arial;">The badge of the 303rd Aerial Reconnaissance Group, 300th Air Intelligence and Security Wing, Philippine Air Force. Photo taken from 5th Fighter Wing, Philippine Air Force.</span></td></tr>
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<span style="font-family: arial;"><span face=""arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif"><br /></span></span></div><div><span style="font-family: arial;"><span face=""arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif">Location of bases where the UAVs will be deployed are confidential, although it would be remembered that sightings of the both Hermes 900 and Hermes 450 were confirmed in several locations in the Philippines.</span><br />
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<span face=""arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif">While the Hermes 450 and Hermes 900 UAVs are already delivered, they will all undergo operationalization. According to sources, only 1 Hermes 900 unmanned aerial system with 3 UAVs and the sole Hermes 450 UAS with 4 UAVs are partially operational, while the 2 other Hermes 900 UAS with 3 UAVs each will probably reach partial operationalization by 2nd quarter of 2021.</span><br />
<span face=""arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif"><br />Full operationalization of 1 Hermes 900 UAS and 1 Hermes 450 UAS is expected by mid 2021.</span><br />
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<span face=""arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif">Once operational, the Hermes 450 and Hermes 900 UAS can be utilized for several surveillance missions, including tracking down terrorists in jungle and urban areas; battlefield surveillance and real time surveillance; and maritime surveillance in the West Philippine Sea, northern borders with Taiwan, Japan and the Bashi Channel, southern triborder with Indonesia and Malaysia, and the Philippine Rise, and other missions like search and rescue.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: arial;"><span face=""arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif"><br /><br />The UAS could also cover for the lack of sufficient manned maritime patrol aircraft, although there are certain missions that a manned maritime patrol aircraft are capable of doing that these UAS may not be able to do, including anti-submarine warfare, and munitions delivery.<br /><br /><b><u><span style="color: red;">Horizon 2 Still Far From Complete:</span></u></b></span><br />
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<span face=""arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif">With the deliveries completed, this marks the completion of the first major project of the Philippine Air Force under the Horizon 2 phase. While this is major milestone, the delays in several other Horizon 2 major projects for the PAF is disappointing, considering the end of Horizon 2 is just a little over 2 years away.</span><br />
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<span face=""arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif">MaxDefense hopes that the DND and PAF to speed up their other projects, like the already delayed Attack Helicopter and the slow moving Multi-Role Fighter Acquisition Projects.</span><br />
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<b><u><span face=""arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif" style="color: red;">Project Summary:</span></u></b><br />
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<span face=""arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif"><b><u>Unmanned Aerial System (Level 3) Acquisition Project - Hermes 900 and Hermes 450 MALE UAS</u></b></span><br />
<span face=""arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif"><span face=""arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif"><i><br /></i></span><span face=""arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif"><i>Note: Edited as of 09 September 2020</i></span></span><br />
<span face=""arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif"><b><br /></b><b>* End User:</b><span face=""arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif"> Philippine Air Force (300th Air Intelligence & Security Wing)</span></span><br />
<span face=""arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif"><br /><b>* Quantity:</b> 3 Hermes 900 systems (9 UAVs and supporting systems), 1 Hermes 450 system (3 UAVs and supporting systems).</span><br />
<span face=""arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif"><span face=""arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif"><b><br /></b></span><span face=""arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif"><b>* Modernization Phase:</b></span><span face=""arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif"> Horizon 2 Phase of RAFPMP</span></span><br />
<span face=""arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif"><span face=""arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif"><br /><b>* Project ABC:</b></span><span face=""arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif"> Php8,470,000,000.00 (whole project)</span></span><br />
<span face=""arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif"><span face=""arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif"><br /></span><span face=""arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif">* </span><b>Acquisition Mode</b><span face=""arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif">: Government-to-Government (G2G) between Philippine Department of National Defense and Israel Ministry of Defense<br /><br /><b>* Source of Funding</b>: </span><span face=""arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif">GAA Funds through AFP Modernization Program Trust Fund, to be paid via Multi-Year Obligation Authority (MYOA) process.</span></span><br />
<span face=""arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif"><span face=""arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif"><b><br /></b></span><span face=""arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif"><b>* SARO Release:</b></span><span face=""arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif"> TBA</span></span><br />
<span face=""arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif"><span face=""arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif"><b><br /></b></span><span face=""arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif"><b>* Winning Proponent:</b></span><span face=""arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif"> Elbit Systems Ltd.</span></span><br />
<span face=""arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif"><span face=""arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif"><b><br /></b></span><span face=""arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif"><b>* Contract Price:</b></span><span face=""arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif"> Php8,470,000,000.00 for entire project</span></span><br />
<span face=""arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif"><span face=""arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif"><b><br /></b></span><span face=""arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif"><b>* Residual Price: </b>Php0.00</span></span><br />
<span face=""arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif"><span face=""arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif"><b><br /></b></span><span face=""arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif"><b>* First post by MaxDefense:</b></span><span face=""arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif"> </span><a href="http://maxdefense.blogspot.com/2017/08/philippine-air-force-to-procure-elbits.html"><span style="color: blue;">08 August 2017</span></a></span><br />
<span face=""arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif"><span face=""arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif"><br /></span><b>* MaxDefense Searching Hashtag:</b><span face=""arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif"> #PAFUASAcquisition #PAFHermes900UAS #PAFHermes450UAS</span></span><br />
<span face=""arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif"><span face=""arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif"><b><br /></b></span><span face=""arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif"><b>* Status:</b> First Hermes 900 UAV delivered September 2019, first complete system of 3 Hermes 900 UAVs and 3+1 Hermes 450 UAVs completed before November 2019. Two other Hermes 900 systems (6 UAVs) delivered as of August 2020. Delivery of UAVs completed, minor contract requirements remain, to be completed by 4th quarter 2020.</span></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: arial;"><span face=""arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif">===============</span><br />
<span face=""arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif">First edit and release: 09 September 2020</span><br />
<span face=""arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif">Copyright MaxDefense Philippines</span><br />
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