Philippine Coast Guard's first 97-meter Multi-Role Response Vessel to launch soon

 

The Philippine Coast Guard is expecting good news in the next dew days.

Its largest ship acquisition to date, the 94-meter Multi-Role Response Vessels (MRRV) it ordered from Japan's Mitsubishi Heavy Industries, will reach an important milestone this week.

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.

The first ship of the class, with hull number 9701 (97 meters, hull 01) which is still unnamed yet, is scheduled for launching on Monday, 26 July 2021 at MHI's shipyard in Japan.

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.

While there is still no name decided as of this writing, MaxDefense Philippines was told that a female hero's name would be used.

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.

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.

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.

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.

The ship will have its final fit-out works to proceed afterwards and will be done with the ship already floating at pier. 

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.

No doubt, its a ship for the Philippine Coast Guard. Photo shared to MaxDefense Philippines by sources.

The new 97-meter Multi-Role Response Vessels were based on a revised Kunigami-class offshore patrol vessel used by the Japan Coast Guard, as shown below. 

Some photos of Kunigami-class large patrol vessels of the JCG. Credits to original sources of the photos.

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.

Basic technical requirements of the MRRV, as indicated in the tender documents. Photo taken from DOTr/PCG bid documents.

The ship has an overall length of 96.6 meters, a maximum width of 11.5 meters, a draft of 4.3 meters.

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.

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. 

Project Summary:

94-meter Multi-Role Response Vessel Acquisition Project

Note: Edited as of 22 July 2021:

* End User: Philippine Coast Guard

* Quantity: 2 nos.

* Project ABC: Php7,000,000,000.00

* Acquisition Mode: Limited Source Bidding

* Source of Funding: Official Development Assistance (ODA) by Japan JICA, ODA Loan No. PH-P263.

* Winning Proponent: Mitsubishi Shipbuilding Co. Ltd.

* Product for Delivery: 2 nos. modified Kunigami-class 97-meter patrol vessel

* Contract Price: JPY14,550,000,000.00, approx. Php6,790,000,000.00

* Searching Hashtag: #PCG94mMRRV #PCG97mMRRV

* Status: 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.

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First release: 22 July 2021
Copyright MaxDefense Philippines

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More Details on the Philippine Navy's Horizon 2 Offshore Patrol Vessel Project After ADAS 2018

Shipbuilders from Asia, Australia and Europe gathered in Manila from 26th to 28th September 2018 for the 3rd Asian Defense, Security, and Crisis Management Exhibition 2018 (ADAS 2018), the Philippines' foremost defense exhibition held biennially. And among the exhibits and offerings they showcased are mostly related to the Philippine Navy's requirements under the Horizon 2 phase of the Revised AFP Modernization Program (RAFPMP).

Among those projects that are up for grabs and is very lucrative was the Philippine Navy's requirement for 6 Offshore Patrol Vessels (OPV), to replace its existing fleet of Malvar-class World War 2-era ships used by the PN for the same purpose. These ships were needed to be replaced 40 years ago and yet they are still hardworking with the Offshore Combat Force of the PN. With the current administration of Pres. Rodrigo Duterte approving the Horizon 2 Priority Projects worth Php300 billion, the Philippine Navy was provided with a budget of Php30 billion, or 10% of the total Horizon 2 budget for the acquisition of these 6 OPVs.

The presence of shipbuilders was well-noted due to their products being big ticket items. Among those present were the following::

* Austal Philippines, a local subsidiary of Austal of Australia;
* Daewoo Shipbuilding & Marine Engineering (DSME) of South Korea;
* Damen of the Netherlands;
* Hyundai Heavy Industries (HHI) of South Korea;
* Larsen & Toubro (L&T) of India;
* Lurssen Defence of Germany;
* Kockums of Sweden, under SAAB group;
* PT PAL of Indonesia;
* Rosoboronexport of Russia, representing several Russian shipbuilders;
* Vympel Shipyards of Russia

The Philippine Navy OPV has put the country on the spotlight of global shipbuilders who wish to participate in the program, including Australia's Austal, which has its own shipyard in the Philippines.
Photo taken from Austal's website.

While not all of the companies mentioned above provided display or information regarding their products that may fit the OPV project, at least several all of them did. MaxDefense will be discussing some of those show @ ADAS 2018, as well as from information we gathered from sources.

This blog can be considered an update to our earlier blog discussing the then-proposed acquisition of Multi-Purpose Patrol Vessels (MPPV) based on earlier documents from the DND and PN. But our readers are advised to read the old blog first, to have some basic idea and comparison on what happened and planned before versus what is asked for now.

"The Multi-Purpose Patrol Vessel, the Philippine Navy's Newest Horizon 2 Project" - first posted on 16 November 2016 (almost 2 years ago).



Potential OPV Offers and their Characteristics:


1. Austal Philippines:

Austal Australia through its Philippine subsidiary showcased their Philippine Navy OPV design, which is said to be based on their Cape-class large patrol boat. Their product is actually, in MaxDefense's opinion, the best barometer of what the Philippine Navy is looking for.

Based on the specs provided by Austal in their product material, it has an overall length of 81.7 meters, beam of 13.3 meters, and a hull draft of 4 meters. No other information was provided although the CGI is helpful. The design uses a stealthy profile, a single mast, and simple but clean superstructure.

Austal's Philippine Navy OPV design.
Taken from Austal's website.

The CGI photo shows the ship armed with an Oto Melara 76mm Super Rapid naval gun as its main weapon, and what appears to be two (2) remote controlled machine gun systems in either 25mm or 30mm caliber, one each on the port and starboard sides. It also appears to have a manually operated 12.7mm machine gun on each side of the bridge wing. 

The ship also appears to be equipped with an S-band navigation radar, a 2D air/surface search radar, a Radar Direction Finder, a Radar Electronic Support Measures (R-ESM) system, an Electro-Optical / Infrared (EO/IR) system, a large helicopter deck but no hangar, space good enough for 2 Containerized Mission Modules at the stern, a quick-entry RHIB stern ramp, and a davit/crane-deployed RHIB at the midship.

These features are a good basis of what the Philippine Navy could be looking for as a minimum requirement, which means that shipbuilders who can propose a design that has these features may be considered qualified for the project.

The Austal OPV proposal's aft is shown.
Photo taken from Austal's broduct brochure, credits to the one who took the photo.

2. Propmech Corporation

Another interesting design that is obviously for the Philippine Navy was released by local marine company Propmech Corporation, which dubbed the design they released as the "OPV 1500". The design is very much influenced by those made by their foreign partner, Dutch shipbuilder Damen, as Propmech's OPV 1500 appears to be very much similar in profile, shape, and design qualities as Damen's larger OPV 1800 and smaller OPV 1400, as well as the Holand-class OPV.

No dimensions were provided by Propmech, but if we follow Damen's way of naming ships, OPV 1500 means that the ship is expected to weigh a little over 1,500 tons. Also, since the ship is between the size of Damen's OPV 1400 and OPV 1800, MaxDefense can assume that the OPV 1500 could be longer than 72 meters, but shorter than 83 meters; a beam of somewhere between 12.7 meters to 13.7 meters; a draft of around 3.75 meters; have a maximum speed of between 21 to 22 knots; range of between 4,000 to 5,000 nautical miles, and endurance between 25 to 30 days.

Propmech's OPV 1500. The design cues show strong Damen-inspired lines and concept.
Photo taken by a MaxDefense community member who wish to remain anonymous.

The CGI photo also shows that the ship is armed with an Oto Melara 76mm Super Rapid naval gun as its main weapon and two (2) remote controlled machine gun systems of either 25mm or 30mm caliber, a helicopter deck, an S-band and X-band navigation radars, a 2D air/surface search radar, and a having a streamlined design.

The good thing was that Propmech made a description script on the ship, wherein it mentioned the presence of a hangar and deck capable of accommodating helicopters the size of NH90 or Sea King (which are considered 11-12 ton helicopters), has davits for two (2) 9.0m RHIB, below deck spaces for multi-purpose requirements, and aft deck space for two (2) Containerized Mission Modules.

It also mentioned accommodation for 46 crew members, and nautical equipment including Satcom C and F77, UHF and HF receivers, Integrated Bridge System, X & S Band radars, ECDIS, Gyro, DGPS, Speedlog, Autopilot, Echo Sounder, Navtex, etc. All of which could be a requirement of the Philippine Navy for their OPV.

Combining the details from Austal and Propmech's proposals alone already gives us a picture of what the Philippine Navy is looking for.



3. Daewoo Shipbuiding & Marine Engineering (DSME):

The South Korean shipbuilder did not make any displayed confirmation if they are offering something to the Philippine Navy for its OPV requirements, but based on the descriptions and displays made by Austal and Propmech, there is actually something in the ADAS 2018 display that possibly meets the PN's requirement.

DSME displayed their DW1800C Corvette design, which despite being classiied as a corvette, could actually be a possible OPV contender.

DSME's DW1800C Corvette design, which they have been displaying in international defense exhibitions since 2 years ago. While it is categorzied as a corvette, the ship actually looks more like an OPV.
Photo taken by a MaxDefense community member who wish to remain anonymous.

DSME's DW1800C Corvette design as shown on its side.
Photo taken by a MaxDefense community member who wish to remain anonymous.

Based on the ADAS 2018 display, the ship is 85 meters long, has a beam of 13 meters wide, and a total depth of 7.0 meters. It weighs in at 1,800 ton, and has a speed of 26 knots. The dimensions and displacement is not very far from those of Austal and Propmech's design, although the speed is faster than our hypothetical maximum speed of Propmech's OPV 1500.

Based on the scale model they displayed in ADAS 2018 (which by the way, is the same scale model they are displaying on every major defense show DSME attends for the past year), the ship is armed with a Hyundai Wia 76mm naval gun, two (2) remote controlled machine gun system of either 25mm or 30mm caliber, an X-band and S-band navigation radars, a 3D air/surface search radar, a Fire Control Radar, a Radar Electronics Support Measures (R-ESM) system, an EO/IR system, 2 cranes for 2 RHIBs deployments, and a helideck for a medium-sized helicopter but no hangar.



4. Damen:

The Dutch shipbuilder has been successful recently in Indonesia with their SIGMA family of light warships,with Indonesia ordering 2 frigates (Martadinata-class based on SIGMA 10514 design) and 4 corvettes (Diponegoro-class based on SIGMA 9113 design), but has yet to get a client in the ASEAN region for their Offshore Patrol Vessels.

No confirmation was made if they are planning to make a separate pitch with that made by Propmech Corporation, but they did gave emphasis on their OPV 1800, which is a larger model to the OPV 1500 displayed by Propmech. 

Based on standard fit-out as per their product data sheet, the OPV 1800 weights 1,850 tons, is 83 meters long, with a beam of 13.7 meter and a draft of 3.75 meters, has a maximum speed of 22 knots, range of 5,000 nautical miles, and endurance of around 30 days. 

Due to the ship open to the end user's configuration, MaxDefense expects it to have similar or equivalent fit out as the ones provided by other shipbuilders.

Damen's OPV 1800 as seen in their display @ ADAS 2018.
Photo shared to MaxDefense by a community member who wish to remain anonymous.

5. Lurssen Defense:

German shipbuilder Lurssen Defense was also @ ADAS 2018 to showcase German products, as other German companies like TKMS and Fassmer were absent during the event.

On display was the PV 80, specifically the Darussalam-class OPVs of the Royal Brunei Navy which ues the PV 80 design. The ship displaces at around 1,500 tons, with a length of 80 meters, a beam of 13 meters, and a draft of 3 meters. Crew is around 80, plus 18 embarked depending on mission profile.

The Darussalam-class OPV of the Royal Brunei Navy was made as an example of Lurssen's PV 80 design, as seen in Lurssen's stall during ADAS 2018.
Photo shared to MaxDefense by a community member who wish to remain anonymous.

Based on the Darussalam-class to show its capabilities in real terms, the ship is equipped with a 57mm Bofors Mk 3 naval gun, 2 units of 20mm remote operated machine gun systems, two twin launchers for the MBDA MM40 Exocet anti-ship missiles, two Terma C-Guard SKWS-6T decoy launchers, and two Cal.50 manually operated machine guns.

The ship has a Terma Scanter 4100 2D air/surface search radar, a Mk. XII Identification Friend or FOe (IFF), a Thales STING EO Mk. II fire control system, Harris ES3601 tactical communications system, a helicopter deck for 11 ton helicopters, capability to carry a 10-meter RHIB through a stern ramp, and a 6-meter RHIB through davits. It can also carry two 20-meter Contrainerized Mission Modules.



6. PT PAL:

Indonesia's state-owner shipbuilder was present in this year's ADAS exhibition, and has been pushing hard for a follow-on order of their Strategic Sealift Vessel, which is being offered to the Philippine Navy, as well as an enlarged version being offered to the Royal Malaysian Navy and Royal Thai Navy. But what was not visible on the display was an offer by PT PAL for an 85-meter Offshore Patrol Vessel. While there's not much fanfare in their OPV offering, its mere presence means PT PAL is also capable of providing a proposal for the PN's requirement.

PT PAL's OPV  85-meter design has an overall length of 85 meters, a beam of 12.9 meters, a draft of 3.80 meters, a displacement of 1,880 tons, and a crew of 65 people. It has a cruising speed of around 14 knots and a maximum speed of 26 knots, and a range o 3,000 nautical miles.

It can carry 2 RHIB and has 1 crane of its deployment, and the ship is made of steel for both the hull and superstructure.

The photo from their product brochure also shows a helicopter deck a small hangar, the use of an Integrated Mast for the sensors, and armed with a 57mm Bofors Mk. 3 naval gun and two 20mm remote controlled machine gun systems, 1 each at port and starboard sides.

Normally, the use of an Integrated Mast is just an option, and a standard mast with separate sensors and antennas can be used to replace it. Like all other ships, the 57mm Bofors Mk. 3 naval gun can be replaced with an Oto Melara 76mm naval gun if specified.

PT PAL's 85-meter OPV design, as shown on their product brochure.

7. Rosoboronexport:

No specific details were provided nor any display in their stall during ADAS 2018, although MaxDefense received confirmation that Rosoboronexport did offer the Project 22160 for both the PN's OPV and Corvette projects.




Additional Information on Shipbuilders Based on MaxDefense's Sources:

Aside from the information we got from ADAS 2018 which includes verbal confirmation from shipbuilder's representatives, and by observation and analysis from scale models and product brochures, MaxDefense was able to gather more information about the offers made by the above mentioned shipbuilders.

1. For Austal, this would be a milestone for them since they usually construct ships made of aluminium, and in this case, their offering for the PN OPV will have a steel hull. But it would still be using aluminium for the ship's superstructure. The aluminium superstructure was actually mentioned by several MaxDefense sources and community members to be a concern especially during combat due to their inherent ease of prone to flammable and fire damage.

Austal is also currently said to be the most favoured by the Department of National Defense (DND), as MaxDefense was informed that the DND did have several personal and video meetings with Austal management and leaders.The shipyard in Balamban, Cebu is actually their strongest advantage, being the only one seriously offering for the project with its own shipyard locally, unlike others which are partnering with local shipyards only.

Defense Sec. Delfin Lorenzana and PN official's recent visit to Austal's yard in Cebu is another strong indication that favours Austal over the other shipbuilders.


2. On Propmech Corporation, they currently have strong relations with the Philippine Navy, being able to supply 9 Multi-Purpose Attack Crafts (MPAC), several fast boats, and the landing craft utility BRP Tagbanua.(AT-296). This could be useful for them, considering their partnership with Dutch shipbuilder Damen allowed both companies to create a strong proposal for the PN. Being a local partner of SAAB Group as well may show up in their offer, as MaxDefense expects Propmech and Damen to use SAAB's naval systems including the 9LV Combat Management System, or even the Sea Giraffe AMB which will be available soon on the PN's Del Pilar-class frigates.
The only problem with Propmech is not having its own shipyard which is large enough to construct Offshore Patrol Vessels or similar ships on their own, and instead may have to rely on a subcontractor or another partner with its own shipyard. This could be a reason why it is expected that Damen may also have its own submission for the OPV project, as it may also be looking for another partner with its own shipyard that won't involve Propmech's participation and using Damen's own design which MaxDefense believes to be the OPV 1800. MaxDefense also received information that an OPV 1600 design may also be available with Damen but is not being made public yet, and may conform more on the PN's requirements and remain competitive in terms of pricing.


3. For Daewoo Shipbuilder & Marine Engineering (DSME), apparently they are not as aggressive as it looks, but they are quietly working their way too in a more discrete manner, probably to avoid the same backlash as fellow Korean shipbuilder Hyundai Heavy Industries (HHI) encountered with the Frigate Acquisition Project. MaxDefense was also told that DSME was giving more concentration on the PN's plan to acquire Submarines, which DSME believes is more possible to win than the OPV or any other naval shipbuilding projects of the PN.

MaxDefense believes that DSME may also dangle some "freebies" into the deal, like offering to provide a used ex-ROKN warship like the Pohang-class corvettes with the assistance of the Korean government, to improve their offer without the need to spend on costs.

4. As for Lurssen Defense, there are several PN officers that made their choice known to MaxDefense, and based on our own internal observation of our community members from the PN, they are more favourable to Lurssen's products, apparently due to their high quality and proven capability. The recent visit of a Darussalam-class OPV from the Royal Brunei Navy made it more possible for PN officers to view the quality and workmanship of the ship, as well as its feel and design from up-close.

The only downside with Lurssen is pricing, which is expected to be on the high side, as well as reported imposition of stricter arms export control by the German (and Spanish) governments for weapons or defense exports to the Philippines, following the case of Belgium. This was only reported to MaxDefense recently and has already affected certain projects where the AFP favoured a German supplier. This issue is still something that needs further confirmation, although if this is true then it would really be a big problem that Lurssen and other German shipyards like Fassmer and TKMS would need to hurdle.

5. PT PAL's concerns are somehow different from the other shipbuilders. It is in a position that it may difficulty to offer a major combat ship like the OPV due to security reasons. While Indonesia is not an enemy or a potential threat to the Philippines, it currently shares borders with it which could be a reason for any future conflict. And it is for security reasons that the Indonesians should not have a complete knowledge of the OPVs design. Apparently, PT PAL is still searching for a local shipyard partner in case they are given the chance to participate. 

Their 85-meter OPV design is actually benefiting from their previous partnership with Damen, as well as introducing design cues that are present on Damen's OPV and SIGMA designs, as well as with Indonesia's acquisition of the BAE F2000-based Bung Tomo-class corvettes. 



Other Possible Interested Proponents:

Aside from those that attended the ADAS 2018, MaxDefense also received confirmation that other shipbuilders have shown interest, or at least touched base with the Philippine Navy or DND for information and for informal offers.

Among those MaxDefense were able to name are France's Naval Group (specifically Kerships), Thailand's Bangkok Dock Company in cooperation with BAE Systems, Israel Shipyards, Goa Shipyard Limited and Garden Reach Shipbuilders Engineers (GRSE) of India, Fassmer of Germany, and a certain shipbuilder from Ukraine. 

It is still unclear though if they are serious with their intentions to try to offer for the Philippine Navy, considering the project might undergo Public Bidding due to the number of interested proponents.

Bangkok Dock Company was said to have expressed interest in joining the OPV acquisition project of the Philippine Navy using an improved version of the RTN's Krabi-class, which in turn is an improved version of BAE System's River-class OPV. The company is also said to have offered the same design to the Sri Lankan Navy recently.
Photo taken from PDFF Forum c/o MaxDefense community member Dewey.

Additional Details on OPV, Prior and Post ADAS 2018:

Aside from the information from ADAS 2018, MaxDefense was able to gather additional information on the OPV project.

Based on information MaxDefense gathered from sources here are the following details we can add on our hypothetical Technical Specifications for the PN's OPV requirement:

On Weapon and Sensor Systems:

1. The PN appears to be inclined on using the Oto Melara 76mm Super Rapid naval gun as the ship's default primary gun. This will be done not be mentioning the brand and model specifically, but by specifying a requirement of 120 rounds per minute and any other features which only the gun has and its closest competitor doesn't have, which is only possible with the said gun.

2. No specifics were provided regarding the quantity Remote Controlled Machine Gun Systems, but it would be either 25mm or 30mm in caliber, similar to what the PN already has or will have.

3. The ships are said to be fitted for but not with (FFBNW) at least two twin anti-ship missile launchers and at least a SHORAD system similar to the MBDA Simbad RC.

The PN OPV design should be able to accommodate FFBNW anti-ship missile launchers, not just space but also wiring and bolting, as well as sufficient power supply and sensor support. This is despite the missile launchers not part of the contract and will be PN's responsibility in the future. The Darussalam-class above has two twin MM40 Exocet launchers between the bridge structure and the funnel.
Credits to owner of the photo.
 

4. The ship shall be FFBNW Tactical Data Link 16. And with this, we could also assume that a Combat Management System (CMS) should also be included.

5. The Containerized Mission Modules may include a Unmanned Aerial Vehicle (UAV) system which could share the helicopter deck with the helicopter especially when its not on the deck. It may also include an Unmanned Sea Vehicle (USV), or a Mine Warfare System.

The Philippine Navy has expressed interest in acquiring the Boeing Insitu ScanEagle UAV for ship-launched requirements. It was reported to MaxDefense that several PN officers are already familiar with the ScanEagle through the Philippine Air Force units.
Credits to owner of photo.

6. As MaxDefense already mentioned before, the OPVs would be equipped with Long Range Acoustic Device (LRAD) as part of its defensive and communications capabilities.

The Philippine Navy requires the OPVs to be equipped with a Long Range Acoustic Device (LRAD). The photo above is an example used by the Philippine Coast Guard in their Parola-class patrol vessels.
Photo taken from MaxDefense FB page c/o a source which prefer to remain anonymous.

On Hull and Other Items:

1. The ships would definitely use diesel engines, probably in Combined Diesel and Diesel (CODAD) configuration. Although it is unlikely that a gas turbine powered OPV design will be offered (except for the Project 22160 from Russia), this would be emphasized on the technical specifications.
2. Helicopter deck is required, but a hangar is not required but can be offered by shipbuilders if they can. The helideck capacity was not mentioned,although it is expected to be specified to carry at least the heaviest helicopters in the AFP (which currently is the lone S-70A Black Hawk of the PAF's 505th SAR Squadron).

3. The ships should have capability to have accommodate and launch at least 2 RHIBs.for boarding. Davits would be a standard although a quick launch/recovery system is expected to be there, at least for 1 RHIB.

4. At least 4 of the OPVs should be built in the Philippines. Shipbuilders may be given the chance to build at least 2 of the OPVs in their own shipyards to benefit the country of origin, but at least 4 of the OPVs should benefit the Philippine shipbuilding industry directly or indirectly.






MaxDefense was told by sources that the specifications for the Offshore Patrol Vessel is still being finalized, as it keeps on getting new inputs and revisions to improve the design further, benefiting from replies made on the Request for Inforamtion (RFI) and Request for Quotations (RFQ) released by the PN's Technical Working Group (TWG), as well as on new information provided after meetings and discussions with the shipbuilders.

We will be updating this blog entry as more information becomes available to MaxDefense that are good for public consumption. Right now, MaxDefense may not be able to provide more aside from that were allowed to be made public, as well as the observation and analysis we made based on information gathered.



Summary:

1. Offshore Patrol Vessel acquisition project

End User: Philippine Navy (Offshore Combat Force, Philippine Fleet)
Modernization Phase: Horizon 2 Phase of RAFPMP
ABC: Php30,000,000,000.00
SARO Release: N/A
Winning Proponent: None yet, still in pre-procurement phase
Contract Price: N/A
First post by MaxDefense: 08 November 2016

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The Multi-purpose Patrol Vessel, the Philippine Navy's Newest Horizon 2 Project

With the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) Modernization Program already moving to the second five-year phase, dubbed as the Horizon 2 Phase covering years 2018-2022, the planners of the AFP, including those in the Philippine Navy (PN), are now preparing their next projects for implementation under this phase. While their shopping list has been changing lately due to the changing policies of the country under the administration of Pres. Rodrigo Duterte, MaxDefense believes that the AFP has made a priority list that will be immediately implemented, out of the numerous projects that were submitted.

While there are several naval projects indicated in the memorandum submitted by the AFP to the AFP Chief of Staff early last month, a project stood out for being something new and was not among those listed in previous shopping lists submitted by the PN since the initial Desired Force Mix presented in 2012.

That project is called "Multi-Purpose Patrol Vessels" of the Philippine Navy. We would refer to this class of ship as "MPPV" on the duration of the blog entry.

= = = = = = = = = =
Note and disclaimer: all these, especially the information on the ships themselves, are based only on informal initial information provided to MaxDefense by its different sources from the PN and DND, and other special sources. As of this writing, MaxDefense was informed that the Philippine Navy has yet to form a Defense Acquisition System Assessment Team (DASAT) and a Project Management Team (PMT) for this specific project, and no Request for Information (RFI) has been sent out to shipbuilders, system providers, and integrators as of yet. This blog entry will be overwritten later on as more formal and concrete information becomes available. 

The information on the background section, and on the "parallels within the ASEAN region" section are confirmed, and can be vouched by MaxDefense.
= = = = = = = = = = 

Singapore's Independence-class littoral mission vessel are the best that MaxDefense can hope on what the PN should use as a template for its Multipurpose Patrol Vessels. It has all the features the PN could want, but the price could be an issue.
Photo from Singapore Ministry of Defence (MINDEF).

Background:

Previously MaxDefense mentioned that there were several versions of the Philippine Navy's shopping list that were released within the AFP, although it was said that only two versions were approved as official. The first was released in 2012, which was called the Desired Force Mix, while the second was the Philippine Navy Capability Upgrade Program released on April 2016. Between 2012 and 2016, there were also draft wish lists made, that were a little different from the two approved lists but were said to be overridden by the April 2016 version.

The 2012 Desired Force Mix of the Philippine Navy, which was meant to be acquired during the 3 Horizon phases of the AFP Modernization Program.
Photo taken from Timawa.net forum.

The 2012 Desired Force Mix included a requirement for 18 Offshore Patrol Vessels and 40 Patrol Gunboats in its wish list. These were optimized by the PN to be the bulk of the patrol fleet that are much useful during peacetime and law-enforcement operations while surface combatants like corvettes and frigates are meant more for low to high intensity naval conflicts. 

Later versions of the Philippine Navy's wish list did not include both the Offshore Patrol Vessel and Patrol Gunboat requirements, although changes were made on the quantity of other assets included in the DFM list, including the inclusion of new assets like LHA-type vessel, Landing Craft Air Cushioned, and other assets.

This wish list was released by the Philippine Navy is 2015, although the same content was already on documents provided to MaxDefense via its sources as early as 2014. This does not show any requirement for OPV or Patrol Gunboats, yet it included new items like an LHA-type SSV, and other assets.
Photo taken from the Philippine Navy's website.

The latest version of the wish list, released on April 2016, further made changes to the previously released lists. It still did not include Offshore Patrol Vessels and Patrol Gunboats in it, but a new type of ship called the Littoral Patrol Interdiction Craft (LPIC) was included, which was described by MaxDefense sources from the Philippine Navy to be a ship of similar size and capability as the Cyclone-class inshore patrol vessel currently operated by the PN (BRP Gen. Mariano Alvarez (PS-38)) acquired from the US during the term of Pres. Gloria Arroyo.

The latest pre-Duterte administration wish list of the Philippine Navy, shown here in part due to the photo's emphasis of assets for the Philippine Fleet and not for the entire Philippine Navy. The Littoral Combat Force portion shows the LPIC which appears to be similar to the Cyclone-class patrol vessel already operated by the PN.
Photo taken from Cods Salacup M's Facebook page.

Despite being a new wish list, the April 2016 list appears to have been overridden by another wish list, as shown by the Philippine Navy during ADAS 2016 held last September 2016. It appears that during this time, the Philippine Navy was already reformulating their wish list based on the policies set-upon by Pres. Duterte when he came into power a few months back. There is a sudden requirement for an Ocean Patrol Vessel, positioned very much on the centre of the info-graphic poster in the Philippine Navy's stand. 

But as of October 2016, the AFP submitted a tentative wish list to the CSAFP, which is more of a general wish list without too much specifics except for those listed, and it included this Multi-Purpose Patrol Vessel project, together with other AFP projects that are of immediate requirement and intended for implementation as early as possible.

This is the last infographic displayed by the Philippine Navy during ADAS 2016. While almost half of the projects are already shown on previous infographics prior to this one, many are actually new are were not in previous wish lists. The Ocean Patrol Vessel is actually one that is in the middle, and could be a precursor to the need of the PN for patrol vessels that are less capable than corvettes, but are larger than the fast interdiction crafts that they intend to acquire.
Photo shared by Steel Bamboo, a MaxDefense community member.

The Multi-Purpose Patrol Vessel's Intended Purpose:

It was among the projects presented by the AFP that is, officially, meant to support the government's policy to build a strong interdiction capability to counter the proliferation of narcotics from abroad, and ingress/egress of foreign vessels involved in transnational crime along the country's coastal waters. This is very much in line with Pres. Duterte's policies on war against drugs and terrorism.

Despite these, it is expected that the Philippine Navy will also use them for other purposes, including as a mobile Coast Watch platform that will be connected to the Coast Watch Philippines maritime surveillance system, patrol the country's Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ), as a search and rescue or HADR platform in support of the national government, and be used as additional combat asset should the Philippine Navy finds the need to do so, especially in times of emergencies and war. Even if the current administration does not intend to push these ships for these missions, remember that the ships would probably be in service for the next 30 years, way way after Pres. Duterte's term.

Thus, in simple terms, the ship would be similar to a typical patrol vessel, and the classification would be further identified by its size. A larger ship would enable it to reach greater distances and deeper waters with higher sea states similar to an Offshore Patrol Vessel, nonetheless it can be a typical inshore patrol vessel.

Aside from these duties, the memorandum from the AFP specifically mentioned that these ships are meant to replace the remaining World War II-era warships in the Philippine Navy's inventory, specifically the sole destroyer escort (DE) BRP Rajah Humabon (FF-11), the two Rizal-class minesweeper frigates (MSF), and the six remaining Miguel Malvar-class patrol craft escorts (PCE).

Based on this information alone, the future MPPVs are meant to replace ships that are capable of offshore operations, with limited modern combat capability, and has enough endurance as OPVs like these old ships. Despite their classifications, the PN uses these WW2-era ships in a similar fashion as an OPV.


Expected Quantity and Specifications:

Based on the information provided by MaxDefense sources, the Multi-Purpose Patrol Vessel was meant to replace the seven Littoral Patrol Interdiction Craft (LPIC) originally proposed on the April 2016 Capability Upgrade Program wish list of the Philippine Navy. 

Also base on the October 2016 AFP memorandum, the PN plans to have somewhere between 6 to 9 ships of this type, and based on earlier count of WW2-era ships, it appears to be a 1:1 replacement.

The ships are expected to be on the same category of the Jacinto-class patrol vessels in service with the PN, but will definitely have better performance, capability, and will meet actual PN requirements rather than adjusting accordingly to the ship.


Dimensions and Features:

The same memorandum mentioned that these ships will have a length in excess of 50 meters, which appears to be on the same range as the Cyclone-class.

Despite the information on the memorandum, MaxDefense sources from the Philippine Navy confirmed that the ships are actually expected to be longer than 50 meters, and will probably range somewhere nearer to 70 to 80 meters in length. No beam (width) and displacement was provided, although a ship of around 70 to 80 meters in length nowadays would translate to at least 900 tons, depending on the features it possess (further discussed on the next paragraphs).

In terms of capability, the ships are to be designed with fast Rigid Hull Inflatable Boat (RHIB) operations in mind. The PN eyes the ships to be capable of carrying a minimum of 2 RHIBs, although preference will be for the ships to be able to carry and operate 4 RHIBs. This capability entails the need for large spaces, and if fast RHIB launching and recovery is a primary requirement, it is expected that the ships will have a stern-mounted ramps, while option to carry additional RHIB means that these would be carried on davits on the port and starboard sides of the superstructure. A ship with these requirements definitely go beyond 50, or even 60 meters in length.

The French Navy's L'Adroit-class OPV, based on the DCNS Gowind family, has a stern ramp for two 9-meter RHIBs, and could carry two more RHIBs on the superstructure sides.
Photo taken from Marine Nationale (French Navy)

Aside from RHIBs, the Philippine Navy eyes the MPPVs to have a helicopter deck capable of operating a helicopter of unspecified weight. It is highly possible that the requirement may only be for light helicopters like the Leonardo AW-109E Power already in service with the PN, and for ship-launched UAVs. 

But it is also possible that if the platform will be used in HADR operations and support of combat warships in the future, it is also possible that the helicopter deck will be specified for medium helicopters of  (10 to 12 tons in full operating weight), similar to the ones specified on the Tarlac-class Landing Platform Dock, and the Philippine Navy's future frigate. 

The ship does not require a hangar, which is standard in most OPV designs. The adding of a helicopter deck further increases the chances that the PN MPPV will be at least 80 meters long, similar to the length of the French L'Adroit-class or the Singaporean Independence-class, although an elevated helicopter deck with a stern RHIB ramp below could reduce the length of the ship to around 60-70 meters only.

An elevated helicopter deck with a stern RHIB ramp below, similar to the one on Damen's OPV-1400 design (above) with RHIBs launched from davits on the sides, is also another good example on how to integrate the two requirements (helicopter and RHIB operations) without extending the ship's length too much. 

Performance:

The ships are expected to be diesel powered, probably powered by four diesel engines with controllable pitch propellers. The preference of the PN of using German-brand diesel engines, like those specified in the Tarlac-class and the PN's future frigate could also be a template for the MPPVs.

 Based on information provided to MaxDefense, the ships are also expected to have a maximum speed of somewhere between 20 to 23 knots, which is the standard speeds of an OPV, less than that of combat vessels like frigates or corvettes, but definitely faster than the World War 2 ships it will be replacing.

It is also expected that the ships will have a range of somewhere above 3,000 nautical miles, endurance of at least 2 weeks, and will be capable of operations of up to Sea State 5, while also survivable at least up to Sea State 7. 


Sensors:

No mention was made if the ships will be installed with a combat management system (CMS), but it is highly possible that it won't be installed to reduce costs, or a more compact system will be opted as compared to those to be installed on the PN's future frigate.

No mention was also made on what type of radar to be used. It is highly expected to have a navigation and secondary surface search X and S-band radar, as equipped in almost all PN major surface asset. It is highly possible that only a 2D surface and air search radar will be used to reduce cost, instead of a 3D system. It is also expected that the ships will be interconnected to the Coast Watch Philippines system, and will act as a mobile coast watch radar.

A 2D surface/air search & surveillance radar, like Thales' Variant series (above) would probably be used instead of a 3D system which is more expensive and illogical considering the capabilities and design intentions of the MPPVs.
Photo taken from Thales' Twitter account.

It is also expected that the main gun would either have its own fire control radar, or if the gun is less than 76mm in caliber, an Electro-Optical Tracking System (EOTS) similar to those being installed on the Jacinto-class patrol vessels (JCPV) of the PN under the Phase 3A and 3B of its modernization program.

MaxDefense also believes an Electronic Support Measures (ESM) would also be installed on the MPPVs, basing on the availability of such systems with the JCPVs (yes, those small ships at least have ESM). For commonality with the PN's future frigate, a Thales system like the Vigile LW could also be used.



Weaponry:
MaxDefense was informed that the PN intends the MPPVs to be lightly armed, although they would have spaces provided should the PN decide to uparm them later on. Initial information gathered by MaxDefense points that the ships would only be armed with guns. Its primary gun would be a 30 to 40mm remotely-controlled stabilized gun, with secondary 12.7 to 25mm remotely-controlled stabilized guns and manually operated 12.7mm machine guns. The secondary gun caliber size would depend on what the main gun would be, the smaller the main gun, the smaller the secondary gun too. 

Take note that this layout seems to be not final yet, as another source mentioned that the PN is also looking at installing at least an Oto Melara 76mm gun as its primary weapon, which was the original gun of choice on previous OPV plans of the PN. It is expected that the PN would stick to existing calibres already in service (20mm, 25mm, 30mm, 40mm, and 76mm) and won't be considering a new caliber (57mm) due to logistics issues.

The recent decision of the PN to use a 30mm secondary gun for the PN's future frigate suggests that the PN is trying to move up from the previously used 25mm caliber, and may continue to do so for future warship requirements. Initial information gathered by MaxDefense suggests that the PN may use a 30mm or 40mm caliber for the MPPV's main gun requirement. Future uparming with short-range surface to surface missiles like the Rafael Spike-ER or Spike-NLOS is highly possible too.

If the PN decides to stick with the 40mm caliber as the ship's main gun, MaxDefense suggests the use of the newly developed RAPIDSeaGuardian gun from Thales, which, although uses a different ammunition (cased telescopic ammunition) that is different from standard 40mm ammunition used by the PN, can engage conventional naval and slow moving aerial threats, as well as assuming the role of a Close-In Weapons System (CIWS) capable of defending the ship from sea-skimming anti-ship missiles and fast moving attack aircraft. Only issue with this gun is the cost, which is expected to be far more expensive than a standard 30mm or 40mm RCWS mounted gun.

MaxDefense recommends the use of the Thales RAPIDSeaGuardian naval gun should the PN stick to the use of calibers less than 76mm. This gun can also be a CIWS to defend the ship from sea-skimming anti-ship missiles aside from traditional surface and slow-flying aerial threats.
Photo taken from Navy Recognition website.

The PN's MPPV are said to be designed to accommodate up-arming plans, but would probably be limited to short range anti-ship and short range defensive anti-aircraft capability if the option is given a go.

The ships could be armed later on with Rafael's Spike-ER or Spike-NLOS, or Thales' LMM short range missiles. Spike-ER and Spike-NLOS are already being put into service with the PN with its MPAC Mk.3 and Leonardo AW-159 Wildcat helicopter, respectively, while upcoming fast interdiction crafts (as discussed briefly in a MaxDefense Facebook wall post in the past). Meanwhile Thales has been offering their LMM missile with the PN's Naval Air Group and Littoral Combat Force for use on the Leonardo AW-109 and littoral surface assets.

Air defense can be provided by Simbad-RC with MBDA's Mistral very short range air defense missiles similar to those to be installed on the PN's future frigates, to provide a limited air defense capability. 

Aside from these, there were no confirmation if the ships will be capable of anti-submarine warfare (ASW) with a sonar system and anti-submarine torpedoes, which appears to be a feature available with the future corvettes and frigates only.

The Simbad-RC armed with Mistral very short range air defense system (VSHORAD) could be a good addition to the ship if there are extra funds available to provide the ships with a limited air defense capability. Manually operated Simbads can also be better than nothing at all.
Photo taken from MBDA website.

Possible Choices:

MaxDefense sources pointed out that the Philippine Navy is currently looking at designs from Sweden's Saab Kockums with their FLEXPatrol family, Damen of The Netherlands with the different OPV designs (MaxDefense believes the OPV-1400 and OPV-1800), BAE Systems Maritime-Naval Ships with their River-class Batch 2, and KERSHIP of France (joint venture between French shipbuilders DCNS and Piriou) possibly with their OPV-75 design, although MaxDefense believes French offers could be expensive. 

So far, no mention was made to MaxDefense if the PN is looking at designs from Asian countries like Singapore or South Korea.

Looking at the possible choices above, it looks like all proponents are new to the Philippine Navy, as none of them were even present when the PN decided to tender its requirement for a future frigate. Damen and DCNS were said to have passed-off the frigate due to lack of confidence that it will push through, although a very slim margin of profit was also another reason due to the very small budget provided for the frigates. Hopefully this time they would be pushing their wares seriously to the PN.

BAE System Maritime's River-class Batch 2 OPV design is also being eyed by the PN, considering that it has features that the PN are looking for with their MPPV. This is also considering that the PN is eyeing the acquisition of the Royal Navy's River-class Batch 1 OPVs once they are retired from service.

The Royal New Zealand Navy's Protector-class OPV, built by Tenix in Australia, is another template that could be used to visualize what the PN's MPPV may look like. Dimensions, performance, sensors, weapons, RHIB carrying capability and helicopter deck are all there.
Photo taken from Pinterest.

Parallels within the ASEAN Region:

Several ASEAN navies are also embarking on similar littoral patrol vessel programs and it would be interesting to mention and compare them with the PN's Multi-Purpose Patrol Vessel based on the information gathered.

Thailand:

The Royal Thai Navy (RTN) was the first to launch such type of vessel, considered as an Offshore Patrol Vessel (OPV) which is used to patrol Thailand's vast Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ) as well as its littorals in support of smaller surface assets of the RTN.

The RTN's Krabi-class, currently composed of a single active ship and another being constructed in Thailand, have opted to use a modified River-class OPV designed by British shipbuilder BAE Systems Maritime. The ship is 90 meters long, displaces around 2,000 tons, has a high range of 5,500 nautical miles, a maximum speed of 25 knots, and has a helideck for up to a medium-class helicopter. The ship is armed with guns only consisting of an Oto Melara 76mm main gun, two MSI Defence DS30 RCWS-mounted guns, and two manually-operated heavy machine guns. The ship's sensor include a Thales VARIANT lightweight 2D short-medium range surveillance radar which is sufficient enough given the ship's weapons capability.

Compared to the Philippine Navy requirement, this is actually the closest one, but the Thai OPV may be larger, and is more capable than what the PN is looking for.

The HTMS Krabi (OPV-551) while in Australia. A second ship is being constructed and will be installed with almost the same sensors systems in addition to a Thales TACTICOS combat management system.
Photo taken from Shipspotting.com. Credits to the owner.

Brunei:

The small Royal Brunei Navy (RBN) prides itself of having four capable offshore patrol vessels with offensive capabilities in its fleet, called the Darussalam-class, which were made by German shipbuilder Lurssen Wherft. The ships 80 metes long, displaces in excess of 1,600 tons, has a maximum range of 7,500 nautical miles, an endurance of 21 days, and have a maximum speed of 22 knots. It is equipped with a Terma Scanter 4100 2D surveillance radars, and are armed with a Bofors 57mm gun, two Oerlikon 20mm guns, a two twin MBDA Exocet MM40 Block 3 anti-ship missile system. 

These ships, being the most capable in the Brunei fleet, were standard OPVs armed with anti-ship missiles to provide the punch they need due to the absence of other ships that could provide such capability. Without the missiles, they are actually close to the PN requirement.

Malaysia:

The Royal Malaysian Navy (RMN) recently signed for four Littoral Missions Ships (LMS) with China, which will be a new class of patrol vessels that are included in their "15 to 5" Transformation Programme which calls for the reduction of the RMN's fleet from 15 different ship classes, to only 5 by . Two of the ships will be built in China, while 2 will be built in Malaysia. 18 LMS are actually eyed by the RMN, thus it is highly possible that the RMN will be constructing more Chinese-designed LMS in local shipyards as funding becomes available. The LMS is slated to initially replace the Laksamana-class corvettes, and other smaller patrol boats in the near future. The CGI provided by the RMN shows that it looks similar to the Bangladeshi Durjoy-class patrol vessels sold by China recently.

The RMN's LMS has so far no been described much but it was said that the requirement is for it to be armed with guns only, but will be wired for missile systems if deemed necessary.

A CGI of the Malaysian LMS68 ship as provided by the Royal Malaysian Navy.
Photo taken from MalaysaDefense blog page.

Singapore:

The Republic of Singapore Navy (RSN) has launched their Independence-class Littoral Mission Vessel (LMV), a class of 8 new ships that are meant to replace their Fearless-class patrol vessels. The LMVs were designed jointly by Saab Kockums and ST Marine, together with the Defence Science and Technology Agency (DSTA), are is slotted below the Victory-class missile corvettes in terms of size and capability. 

Based on information provided by the RSN, the Independence-class will be 80 meters long, displace around 1,250 tons, has a maximum speed in excess of 27 knots, a maximum range of 3,500 nautical miles, and endurance of around 14 days. It is armed with a 76mm Oto Melara gun, probably reused from the Fearless-class, an air defense capability with 12 MBDA VL-Mica anti-aircraft missiles launched from a VLS, It will also be armed with two Oto Melara Hitrole 12.7mm RCWS-mounted guns, a Rafael Typhoon 25mm RCWS-mounted gun, a helicopter landing pad for medium helicopters (probably SH-60 Seahawk category), a RHB fast launch and recovery system, and a Thales NS-106 3D surveillance radar similar to ones to be installed on the Philippine Navy's future frigate.

In a nutshell, the RSN's Independence-class is the maximum level in this category, with high-level weapons and sensors system despite just being a patrol vessel. The Philippine Navy requirement for MPPV is definitely slotted below this class, and would be less capable, but far cheaper than the Singaporean model. Based on the specs of the ship, "littoral" appears to just be a term but in fact the ship can be used to patrol on deep water far away from the Singapore mainland.

The Independence-class Littoral Mission Vessel (LMV) of the Republic of Singapore Navy.
Photo from RSN.

Timeline:

Being a Horizon 2 project, it is expected that the PN might only come up with a program to start this project by 2017 or even 2018, that is a big IF the PN does not change its shopping wish list again. It normally takes a year or two for a project to be conceptualized, and probably a year or two to tender. If DASAT and PMT are not yet made, then it means the concept is probably only in its early stages, so are the information we have above.

But if the Duterte administration allows the PN to forego the tender system as stipulated by RA 9184, then an award of the project can be made earlier than usual, probably as early as late 2018. If that happens, the first ship of the class could be in service within 2020, almost the same time as the new frigates ordered from HHI.

As far as MaxDefense sources confirmed, this project is said to be among the urgent once since the ships it would replace are nearing 80 years old (gasp!) by then, and they don't have the intention to put them to work any longer.

Until then, MaxDefense will be updating its readers of this project as more information becomes available. Hopefully as early as first half of 2017 we could be getting more confirmed information, considering that many of the PN staff involved in planning this project was in EuroNaval 2016 a few weeks ago, already talking to some of the eyed shipbuilders not just for this project, but also for the expected corvette project. And as far as I was told, many of them were also in Indonesia to attend the massive IndoDefense 2016 defense exhibition to do information gathering.


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U P D A T E S:
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18 December 2016:

Israel Shipyards appears to be leading the pact of possible suppliers for the Philippine Navy's Multi-Purpose Patrol Vessel project, with a proposal submitted as early as August 2016. It involves an offer based on their Sa'ar S-72 corvette design, although simplified to meet basic PN requirements and to reduce costs and meet with the PN's projected Approved Budget for the Contract (ABC).

Based on the formal offer made by Israel Shipyards to the DND and Pres. Duterte himself, the following are the basic information of the ship:

Overall Length: 71.9 meters
Beam: 10.25 meters
Draught: 2.9 meters
Displacement: roughly 800 tons
Speed: above 28 knots maximum, 12-18 knots cruising
Range: 5,300 nautical miles @ 12 knots
Endurance: 21 days
Crew: 45 

Engine: 2 x diesel engines, with option to fit slow-speed electric drive for fue savings
RHIB: 2 to 4 units lowered by davit cranes



Weapons and sensors will be dependent on Philippine Navy's specifications, once finalized, although the ship can fit most common systems available in the market. Israel Ministry of Defense-SIBAT prefers the use Israel-made systems, probably from Rafael, IAI-Elta, and Elbit-Elisra.

A photo of Israel Shipyard's offer based on their Sa'ar S-72 design.
Photo taken from Israel Shipyard's proposals to the PN.

It also appears that other potential shipbuilder competitors of Israel Shipyards like Damen (Netherlands), BAE Systems Maritime (UK), Fassmer (Germany), Tenix Defence (Australia), and others, have not yet submitted a formal offer aside from standard information provided to the PN. Add to that the low unit price, high interest to cooperate with Israel on defense matters by Pres. Duterte, plus a long term payment scheme for the ships, means that this offer is hard to beat at the moment. 

More information will be provided as the project progresses.

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