Philippine Coast Guard announces plans to buy French OPV

From Defense & Security Intelligence & Analysis: IHS Jane's (Oct 31): Philippine Coast Guard announces plans to buy French OPV

The Philippine Coast Guard will buy new patrol craft from France to be deployed in offshore and reef areas near the disputed Spratly Islands. Rear Admiral Luis Tuason, Philippine Coast Guard commandant for operations, told reporters on 29 October that the manufacturer and class of vessels had yet to be decided but said new-build, waterjet- powered vessels designed for operations in deep and shallow waters would be sourced from France. "The president [Benigno Aquino] has ordered the procurement of additional ships for the coastguard," said Adm Tuason. "We have plans to buy one 82 m- and four 24 m-long patrol vessels from France." Adm Tuason said the presidential office would fund the purchase, with the four 24 m craft delivered by December 2013 and the 82 m vessel by early 2014. "We are finalising contract terms but the dates have already been set for delivery," he said, adding that the 82 m vessel would be capable of helicopter operations and operations in Sea State 4....

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