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Showing posts with label PN. Show all posts
Showing posts with label PN. Show all posts

Monday, September 30, 2019

Philippine Navy's Corvette Acquisition Program - Jose Rizal-class Flight II?


The Philippine Navy (PN) and the Philippines' Department of National Defense (DND) have recently been very open in its planned acquisition of assets under the Horizon 2 phase, including how they plan to acquire assets, or from where are they planning to acquire them.

In the case of the PN, among the priorities that it had already mentioned publicly are the acquisition of brand new Corvettes, Offshore Patrol Vessels (OPV), Landing Platform Docks (LPD), Missile-armed Fast Attack Interdiction Crafts (FAIC-M), and Submarines.

Out of the projects above, only the Landing Platform Dock project will be acquired through Public Bidding, and the bidding process is still ongoing as this entry was written. All others are to be acquired through Direct Negotiations or Government-to-Government (G2G) deals between the DND and its foreign counterparts.

MaxDefense believes that out of those in the list for G2G procurement, the Corvette and Offshore Patrol Vessel projects are the most urgent ones. But in this case, let's only talk about the updates on the Corvette Acquisition Project.


With the awarding of the project happening very soon, it would be fitting for MaxDefense to discuss the project again based on newer information.


A scale model of the Jose Rizal-class frigate as provided to the DND by Hyundai Heavy Industries. Photo exclusively shared to MaxDefense by a source.

Recap on the Corvette Acquisition Project:
Since MaxDefense posted its last blog entry on the Corvette Acquisition Project more than a year ago on May 2018, let's have a recap of what the project is and what is it all about.

Previously MaxDefense posted information on what we believe would be the general technical requirements of the corvettes based on information we gathered back then. Here are what we posted back in 2018 just for readers to recall:


====================
- Corvette shall be of proven design (as required by Republic Act 10349);
- Designed to operate in tropic environment, within Philippine Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ) and beyond;
- Fit for service in Surface Warfare (SuW), Anti Air Warfare (AAW), Anti-Submarine Warfare (ASW) and Electronic Warfare (EW) missions;
- Able to survive Sea State 6 or higher;
- Must be able to accommodate AW159 Wildcat or SH-60 Seahawk naval helicopters;
- Endurance of 20 days or longer;
- Displacement between 1,500 to 2,700 tons;
- Length between 80 meters to 105 meters;
- Speed at full displacement at 25 knots or higher;
- Accommodation for 70 personnel or more;
- Ship designed with low Radar Cross-Section (RCS);
- Able to accommodate container mission modules;
- Launch and recovery of two 7-meter RHIBs;
- Satisfy international maritime safety and environmental compliance standard.

Armaments may include:
- Main Gun: 76mm/62 Super Rapid;
- Secondary Gun: 1 x 30mm Machine Gun System;
- 2 x 4 Surface-to-surface Missiles;
- 2 x 8 Surface-to-air Missiles;
- 2 x Triple Torpedo Launchers;
- EW Suite;
- Chaffs and Decoys
====================


Back then, 
MaxDefense received solid confirmation that among those who already made serious offers are:

- ThyssenKrupp Marine Systems (TKMS) of Germany with their MEKO A100 Corvette family,
- Damen of the Netherlands with their SIGMA small warship family,
- Hyundai Heavy Industries (HHI) of South Korea with a modified design based on the HDF-2600 / Jose Rizal-class frigates,
- Garden Reach Shipbuilders & Engineers (GRSE) with their a modified Kamorta-class design,
- Daewoo Shipbuilding & Marine Engineering (DSME) with a new design based on the larger Daegu-class frigates;

MaxDefense was also told that other shipbuilders like Naval Group of France, Navantia of Spain, Saab Kockums Naval Solutions of Sweden, and Goa Shipyards of India have shown interest to submit their offers.


This inforgraphic on the Corvette Acquisition Project was made public by the Philippine Navy on May 2018. But the requirements provided in this are aready superceded by a revised list of requirements included by the Philippine Navy in their RFIs to potential shipbuilders. Photo shared exclusively to MaxDefense by a source.

Updates on Technical Requirements:

Just before the end of 2018, MaxDefense received a more accurate general technical requirement on the Corvette Acquisition Project, which further refined what were being asked for the proponents to provide compared to the requirements prior to that.

While the revised requirements did not went too far from the earlier list we posted above, this gave us more clarity on what the Philippine Navy would want in their corvettes, as follows:

- Minimum length of 80 meters, no limit on maximum length;

- A draft of equal or greater than 4 meters,
- A maximum of speed of at least 25 knots at 80% Maximum Continuous Rating,
- Endurance of at least 20 days, and operating range of at least 4,000 nautical miles,

- Displacement of between 2,000 to 2,500 tons
- Helicopter Landing Deck capacity of at least 10 tons capacity,

- A hangar for at least one 10-ton helicopter,
- A minimum complement of 80 officers and sailors,
- Having unrestricted ship and subsystem operability at Sea State 6
- Includes two 7-meter Rigid Hull Inflatable Boat for Ship-boarding
- Low Radar Cross-Section, Low Infra-red design,
- Low Underwater Radiated Noise and Low Magnetic design
- Includes a Nuclear, Biological and Chemical Warfare citadel
- Tier 3 diesel engine rating

Sensors Fit:

- Two Navigational (X & S-band) Radars
- 3D Air/Surface AESA Radar with Identification Friend or Foe (IFF),
- A Fire Control Radar,
- An Electro-Optical Targeting System (EOTS),
- Hull Mounted Sonar (HMS), 
- Towed Array Sonar System (TASS),
- Incorporating Tactical Data Link 16 and 22 (which are PN-supplied) ,
- Naval Communications-Electronic Support Measures (C-ESM),
- Naval Radar-Electronics Support Measures (R-ESM),
- Tactical Air Navigation (TACAN), Satellite Communications (SATCOM)
- Long Range Acoustic Device (LRAD)

Combat Systems:
- Combat Management System with Tactical Data Link
- Integrated Platform Management System,

- Integrated Bridge Control System,
- Integrated Communications System,
- Unmanned Aerial Vehicle component
- Chaffs & Decoys

Weapon Systems:
- 1 x 76mm Super Rapid gun,

- 2 x quadruple anti-ship missile launchers,
- 1 x Close-In Weapon System (CIWS),
- At least 1 x 30mm secondary gun,
- 2 x triple torpedo launchers
- At least 1 x 8-cell Vertical Launching System (VLS)

So far, the requirements above are actually close to global standards of current corvette designs, and was actually an improvement over the Jose Rizal-class frigate that Hyundai Heavy Industries (HHI) is set to deliver to the Philippine Navy next year.


Most of the requirements for the corvette as indicated in the above list are not really that far from the Jose Rizal-class frigate, but there are some changes that could greatly enhance the ship compared to its frigate sister. Credits to the original source of the photo.

Among the most notable differences with the Jose Rizal-class are the following:

* Use of a 3D AESA radar, which they learned when HHI replaced the 3D AESA radar it offered during the bidding to a different radar model using older technology. Specifying an AESA radar would force the proponent to provide it in their offering.
* Inclusion of a Towed Array Sonar System (TASS) which would effectively improve the ship's submarine-hunting capability instead of just relying on a Hull-Mounted Sonar. In the Jose Rizal-class, this is a Fitted For But Not With (FFBNW) item.
* The specs includes the incorporating of Tactical Data Link 16 and 22, which the Philippine Navy would supply but the shipbuilder should allow easy integration into its system. Mistakes in the Frigate Acquisition Project on being not too specific on this matter resulted to allowing a product not proven to integrate with Link 16 to be used.
* Use of Long Range Acoustic Device (LRAD), which enables voice communication to be made in long distances, which is good for law enforcement missions. It is also a good defensive sound weapon against terrorists, illegal fishermen, and others.



A Long Range Acoustic Device as mounted on a warship. This can be used not just for long distance voice communication but also as a sound weapon against terrorists or other nearby threats. Credits to original source of the photo.

* Requirement for an Unmanned Aerial Vehicle component, which will actually extend the eyes and ears of the warship by improving surveillance and camera range, and can also be used for targeting over the horizon for the ship's anti-ship cruise missiles.


The Philippine Navy has already done tests on using Vertical Take-off and Landing (VTOL) unmanned aerial vehicles (UAV) from ships like the Del Pilar-class as seen here. A VTOL but conventional flying UAV like the one above can be what the PN is looking for the corvettes. Photo shared to MaxDefense by a community member.

* Increased quantity of anti-ship missile launchers from 4 to 8, which was one of the issues of the Jose Rizal-class when the PN decreased the requirement to just for 4 launchers to fit the tight budget. In today's improving electronic warfare, hard and soft kill systems, launching a single or even two anti-ship missiles against a capable surface warship might not necessarily equate to a sure kill.

Requirement to include at least an 8-cell VLS and a CIWS, both of which are FFBNW items in the Jose Rizal-class. This means the corvettes would be ready to receive short or medium-range surface-to-air missiles that improves the warship's overall capability on the get-go. Based on how slow the PN does procurement, we do not expect the Jose Rizal-class to have their VLS and CIWS in the next 2-3 years.

Requirement to include Communication-EMS which is another step forward from just relying on Radar-ESM for identification, detection and interception of electronic signatures, as in the case of the Jose Rizal-class and Del Pilar-class ships.

Aside from these major differences, it appears that the Philippine Navy is looking for a warship design that is smaller than the Jose Rizal-class but will have more equipment installed once delivered.

Considering the higher budget provided for the Corvette Acquisition Project than on the construction of the Jose Rizal-class frigates, it is expected that the corvettes will have additional or even better subsystem fit-out, more weapons and sensors, and will be benefiting from experience from the design and construction of the frigates.


Up until the pre-procurement phase, MaxDefense noted that only certain shipbuilders really pursued the project with seriousness, and these are:

- Hyundai Heavy Industries (HHI), with a derivative of the HDF-2600 / Jose Rizal-class design;

- Damen, with the SIGMA family, with offers ranging from the SIGMA 9813, 9814, and 10514 designs;
- Naval Group with the Gowind-class corvette design;
- Goa Shipyard with a derivative of their Saryu-class offshore patrol vessel;
- Turkish Ministry of Defense with a derivative of the Ada-class corvette;

HHI's offer is technically a design based on Jose Rizal-class frigates, but will need to be revised to meet the requirements. They have the highest chance of being selected since they already have experience working with the Philippine Navy, and will not have difficulty in having a final design approved due to its similarity to the Jose Rizal-class. Their quick construction turn around as shown on the construction of the Jose Rizal-class is also something that has been noted well by both the DND and PN. Another advantage is their ability to help the Philippine Navy lobby for the transfer of excess warships from the South Korean government. 


An update on the Jose Rizal-class frigate design was offered by HHI for the PN's Corvette Acquisition Project. Photo credited to original source.

Damen has offered several designs of their SIGMA family of small warships, with MaxDefense believing that the SIGMA 9814 originally offered to Vietnam being the most feasible based on the requirements. It has partnered with local marine contractor Propmech Corporation and was looking at other local shipbuilders for partnership that would allow them to build some of the corvette's modules locally, and probably have the ship assembled locally too. Damen has an existing shipyard in Vietnam and agreements with PT PAL in Indonesia, which could ether be a good or bad news depending on their benefits or disadvantages.


The SIGMA 9814 corvette design, which Damen offered to Vietnam a few years ago. Credits to the original source of the photo.
Naval Group's Gowind-class was said to be the favorite among officers from the Offshore Combat Force, but is also the priciest. Its cost already exceeded the budget although apparently the French government offered to assist by providing soft loans to cover the cost difference. Perception within the Philippine Navy is that the Gowind-class would have the highest quality in the offerings, although this is debatable due to improving quality from other countries.


The Gowind-class corvette was offered by Naval Group to the Philippines. The same design was selected by Malaysia for its Littoral Combat Ship (Maharaja Lela-class), and the Egyptian Navy (above). Credits to original source of photo.

Goa Shipyard Ltd. benefits from its participation on the Brazilian Navy's Tamandare corvette project, offering the same platform to the Philippine Navy as what they offered to Brazil. Based on feedbacks from our sources, Goa's offering was said to be the cheapest, but concerns on using an offshore patrol vessel design rather than a derivative of a small warship design could be an issue.


The Saryu-class OPV, which is the basis for Goa Shipyard's offer. Credits to the original source of the photo.
Turkey's offer using the a derivative of either the Ada-class corvette or the larger Istanbul-class frigate designed for and used by the Turkish Naval Forces is another interesting one, considering they are also open at having the ship built locally with a local partner, and offering transfer of technology should they win the project. The offer made by Turkey also exceeded the budget although a primary reason was due to the technology transfer proposal which is actually an investment for the future of Philippine naval shipbuilding.


The Istanbul-class frigate design, which is to be built for the Turkish Naval Forces based on the smaller Ada-class corvette. Both designs were offered to the Philippine Navy. Photo taken from Navy Recognition website.

Other shipyards did provide offers but were not really serious due to different circumstances. This includes ThyssenKrupp Marine Systems (TKMS), Navantia, Fincantierri, Austal, BAE Systems, Mazagon Dock, and STX.

Months leading to the Project Approval:
MaxDefense received confirmation as early as March 2019 that Hyundai Heavy Industries appears to be the leading shipbuilder in the race to build the PN's new corvettes. This was after Naval Group and Damen was said to have lost interest in the project for reasons MaxDefense would rather not discuss in the public.

The Turkish government  was said to have been pushing hard for their offer to be shortlisted, but it appears that decision makes within the DND and PN were already fixed on who would be the selected shipbuilder.


MaxDefense's sources later on confirmed that HHI's offer was the most favoured for a number of reasons both legal and, as our sources mentioned, "obvious extra-legal" reasons that is related to how the Philippine Navy and DND ended up on dealing with HHI for the Jose Rizal-class frigates in 2016-2017.

HHI's latest offer was considered "unsolicited", as it was not tailor-fitted based on the Philippine Navy's posted requirements. Instead, it was a combined offer by HHI with backing from the South Korean government that not only covers the construction of the corvettes and the subsystems in it, but also other issues like defense cooperation, excess defense article, financing, and other matters that may include political reasons. For discussions, let's focus on the reasons they does not involve "extra-legal" matters.

It was later on confirmed that during the Joint Command Conference in Malacanang last 07 May 2019, Defense Sec. Delfin Lorenzana submitted for the DND's project approval proposal and recommendation based on HHI's unsolicited offer, which means that it was already evaluated and selected by both the PN and DND beforehand. It validated earlier information provided to MaxDefense on HHI's offer being the most likely selection.


Pres. Duterte and Defense Sec. Lorenzana. Credits to original source of photo.

Pres. Duterte gave the green light to proceed with the Corvette Acquisition Project based on HHI's unsolicited offer, which means the DND and PN were given the freehand to finalize negotiations with HHI and the South Korean government.

HHI's Unsolicited Offer: Jose Rizal-class Flight II

According to MaxDefense's naval and defense sources, the HHI offer was actually an improved Jose Rizal-class frigate, with enhancements made on the sensors and subsystems, performance, weapon systems, and added features that goes with the ship.

It is expected to have a similar hull and base design as the Jose Rizal-class, but might have some adjustment in terms of displacement, length and width, and other physical dimensions to allow the added features or replaced subsystems.

It is safe to say that the corvettes offered by HHI are actually a follow-on to the Jose Rizal-class, which can be labelled as Jose Rizal-class Flight II considering South Korea has been doing a similar method of improving an existing design as they are built in numbers. In this case, it is highly possible that HHI is still constructing / fitting-out the Jose Rizal-class frigates once the contract for the corvettes are signed.

Due to these changes, MaxDefense now believes that these corvettes could be larger and heavier than the original Jose Rizal-class frigates. Among the changes that we expect are the use of larger diesel engines, having larger fuel tanks, more spaces and allowance for weight and power for additional weapon and sensors, more or larger diesel generators, possible use of alternative power sources to compensate on the additional weight, and more crew and storage spaces to accommodate more crew.

Being unsolicited, it is highly possible that HHI would either have fixed the subsystems to be used, or will allow the Philippine Navy to choose but up to a certain degree of not exceeding specific budget allocations unless the PN shoulders or agrees to pay more. At best, it may still follow the basic requirements of the Philippine Navy like the use of a 3D AESA radar, etc.

Up until June 2019, the PN is still in negotiation with HHI on the final fit-out of the corvettes, including additional subsystems that were not part of the proposal. Apparently HHI's offer may not have exceeded the budget allocated by the Philippine Navy, which is now pegged at Php24 billion (US$ 461 million) for 2 corvettes (or an average of Php12 billion or US$230 million per ship) excluding ammunition which will be acquired under a separate sub-lot worth Php4 billion.

Additional Pohang-class Corvettes on the Table:
Among the inclusions made by HHI for the Philippine Navy and DND to consider was that they will again lobby for the transfer of more retired Pohang-class corvettes to the Philippine Navy if their HHI is awarded the project.

This is exactly the reason why the Philippine Navy and DND were both confident that their request for 2 more Pohang-class corvettes, and possibly more units will be granted by the South Korean government.

So far, not even the French, Indian, or Turkish offers could match that.

The introduction of more Pohang-class corvettes means the Philippine Navy could now have reason to decommission and dispose of its remaining World War 2-era warships like the Rizal-class and Malvar-class patrol vessels by 2020.




HHI apparently promised to help lobby on the transfer of more Pohang-class corvettes retired by the ROKN, should HHI win the CAP. Photos taken from the Philippine Navy. Credits to the Philippine Navy.

MaxDefense's Opinion and Forecast:
MaxDefense believes that since HHI was the one that made the proposal, it is highly possible that it would include subsystems that are made in South Korea. It may also have features found on the new Daegu-class frigates of the Republic of Korea Navy, although it could be using more imported components than its Korean counterpart.



Both HHI and the PN could probably take a cue to the new Daegu-class frigates (FFX-II) of the ROKN, which is just US$40 million more expensive than the PN new corvettes. The Daegu-class uses a larger 127mm naval gun, a larger size, and a more complicated CODLOG configuration of propulsion involving the expensive Rolls Royce MT30 gas turbine and Leonardo DRS electric motors. These could have contributed to the higher cost per ship. Photo taken from Navy Recognition website.

Among those expected to be carried over from the Jose Rizal-class frigates are the following:

* Combat Management System, which may still use the Hanwha Defense Systems Naval Shield I-CMS. Since development of Baseline 3 is not yet completed, it is highly possible that the corvettes will receive a later version of Baseline 2.


It is highly expected that HHI would offer the Hanwha Defense Systems Naval Shield I-CMS Baseline 2.xx again for their proposed new corvettes.Commonality with the JRCF becomes a key reason. Photo shows the CMS consoles for BRP Antonio Luna (FF-151). Credits to original source of photo.
* Anti-ship Cruise Missile with the LIGNex1 SSM-700K C-Star missile. Among all weapons, the C-Star is the most likely Korean weapon to be made standard on the corvettes.
* 76mm Naval Gun using the Oto Melara 76mm Super Rapid gun, which is becoming the standard naval gun of the Philippine Navy together with the older Oto Melara 76mm Compact gun.
* 30mm Secondary Gun using Aselsan SMASH 30mm RCWS, which still remains to be one of the most affordable in the market. Having them already in the Jose Rizal-class makes it more feasible.
* SEA Triple Trainable Torpedo tubes, which also makes sense due to commonality.
* Lightweight Torpedoes with the LIGNex1 K745 Blue Shark lightweight anti-submarine torpedoes, which is also becoming the standard lightweight torpedo of the PN,


MaxDefense is also expecting improvements, including the following:
* 3D AESA radar using the Hensoldt TRS-4D radar, which is essentially an AESA version of the older non-AESA TRS-3D installed on the Jose Rizal-class.

Hyundai, with approval by the South Korean government may be pushing for their corvette offer to include the K-VLS vertical launching system, which would enable them to push for the export of the K-SAAM missile defense system and the KM-SAM medium-range surface-to-air missile. Photo taken from The Mess, credits to original source of the photo which appear to be from a Korean website.



















* The K-VLS 8-cell Vertical Launching System, wherein the frigates may be fitted with at least 1. Should the PN be successful of having two 8-cell VLS, it is still highly possible that at least 1 could be using the K-VLS to allow the use of Korean-made missiles. This means possibly offering also the LIGNex1 K-SAAM Sea Bow anti-missile missile system, and/or the LIGNex1 KM-SAM Cheolmae 2 medium range surface-to-air missiles.

While still unconfirmed, among those that were being considered for inclusion on the new corvettes include two 8-cell VLS for surface-to-air missiles, diesel-electric hybrid propulsion for silent running during ASW operations, an additional 30mm naval gun, a more comprehensive Electronic Warfare suite, among others.

Corvette or Frigate? 
If the new corvettes are essentially slightly larger Jose Rizal-class frigates, does it mean that they are actually frigates and not corvettes?

Or since the new corvettes the same or slightly larger than the Jose Rizal-class frigates, does it mean the Jose Rizal-class are actually corvettes and not frigates?

Considering the Philippine Navy plans to have 6 frigates and 12 corvettes as part of its Sail Plan 2028, where do we categorize the new corvettes and Jose Rizal-class frigates?

If MaxDefense is to answer the question, I believe the Jose Rizal-class should be reclassified as corvettes, and the new corvettes remain as corvettes too.

Why, you ask? Despite the classification of both ships becoming moot due to similarities in capabilities and size? Simple.

First of, if the Philippine Navy classifies them as corvettes, they are now compelled to acquire larger warships that they can classify rightfully as frigates. It won't matter if by paper the Philippine Navy becomes frigate-less until 2023. At least we know that the PN would now be looking at larger warships, with length probably exceeding 120 meters and displacement exceeding 4,000 tons, with more space for power generation, larger and more powerful sensors, and more capable weapon systems.



The Philippine Navy can even consider the new Type 31e frigate of the UK, whose basic price is within the Php18 billion budget allocated by the PN. The ship is large enough for future growth including installation of advanced air defense systems. Photo taken from BBC.

Secondly, the PN has to base its classification on the actual ability of the ships As per the PN's Classification Guidelines as of May 2016, a "Corvette" is a surface ship designed for anti-submarine warfare, and displaces between 540 to 3,000 tons (or well within the displacement of both the Jose Rizal-class frigate and the new corvettes). 

Meanwhile a "Frigate" is a surface ship designed for both ASW and Anti-Aircraft Warfare (AAW), and displaces between 2,000 to 5,000 tons. Despite the Jose Rizal-class frigates slated to have an 8-cell VLS, that would not be enough for it to be classified as an AAW asset, since the missiles are most likely just to defend itself against incoming aircraft or anti-ship cruise missiles. A real AAW asset means having the capacity to provide air defense not just to itself but also an entire battle group, and having longer-ranged air defense capability. This means being armed with more VLS launchers, more powerful air defense radar and combat system, and use of long range air defense missiles like the Barak-8, Aster-30, or SM-3 missiles.

Lastly, if a more powerful ship like the new corvettes are classified as corvettes, is it not logical to classify less powerful and probably slightly smaller warships like the Jose Rizal-class as corvettes too?

And the Philippine Navy must have already realized this before too. Why is that?

Based on the original submissions made by the Philippine Navy to procure additional frigates as part of the Horizon 2 Priority Projects, they have actually allocated a budget of Php18 billion (around US$380 million in 2016, most likely excluding ammo) for each future frigate in 2016. That is far higher than the current allocation of Php12 billion (around US$230 million in 2019, excluding ammo) for each new corvette, or the Php8 billion (US$170 million in 2016 excluding ammo). 




Even Indonesia, which just recently commissioned the Martadinata-class frigates, is now looking at larger frigate designs like the Danish Iver Huitfeldt-class or the Damen's Omega frigate for their needs. The Martadinata-class based on Damen's SIGMA 10514 is similar is size and quite similar in capability as the Jose Rizal-class frigates. Credits to original sources of both photos.

It would also be remembered that Philippine Navy Flag Officer in Command Vice Adm. Robert Empedrad, in a recent press interview, mentioned that a new large frigate may cost around Php60 billion (around US$1.15 billion). Although his cost estimates were too high (even European navies pay less than US$1 billion for AEGIS-equipped air defense frigates), the idea is that they are looking at frigates with similar capabilities and obviously larger size than the new corvettes or the Jose Rizal-class frigates in the future.
 

MaxDefense will try to monitor this project, considering everything can still change since there is no contract nor even a Notice of Award released in favor of any shipbuilder. MaxDefense was told by sources that the NOA could be released before the end of October 2019, with a contract potentially ready for signing before the 2019 Christmas Holidays kick in.

More of the updates coming on the Corvette Acquisition Project will be posed by MaxDefense in its resource page for the project. It can be accessed on our website's AFP Modernization Projects portal, or through the link provided below:

"Corvette Acquisition Project of the Philippine Navy" - first posted on 17 August 2019.


Take note that all analysis posted in this blog entry are based on current information provided to MaxDefense, and may not be 100% accurate. But we try to be as close to the facts and truth as much as possible.

Project Summary:

Corvette Acquisition Project

Note: Edited as of 17 August 2019.

* End User: Philippine Navy (Offshore Combat Force)

* Quantity: 2 ships and assorted ammunition

* Modernization Phase: Horizon 2 Phase Priority Projects of RAFPMP

* Project ABC: Php28,000,000,000.00 (both lots)

* Acquisition Mode: Government-to-Government (G2G) Procurement

* Source of Funding: From other sources, to be paid via Multi-Year Obligatory Allocations (MYOA).

* SARO Release: TBA

* Winning Proponent: TBA

* Product for Delivery: TBA

* Contract Price: TBA

* First post by MaxDefense: 25 June 2013

* MaxDefense Searching Hashtag: #PNCorvetteAcquisition #PNCAP

* Status: Pre-Procurement phase ongoing. Final negotiations ongoing with Hyundai Heavy Industries, award and contract signing exepected before end of 2019.


===============
First edit and release: 29 September 2019
Copyright MaxDefense Philippines

Wednesday, October 17, 2018

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

Philippine Navy Modernization Projects

Philippine Air Force Modernization Projects