Saturday, April 13, 2013

PN to develop ASW capability

From the Philippine News Agency (Apr 13): PN to develop ASW capability

In line with its efforts to develop its deterrent capability, the Philippine Navy (PN) announced that it is developing its anti-submarine warfare (ASW) capability.

Lt. Cmdr. Gregory Fabic, Navy spokesperson, said that this program is one of the PN's long-term undertakings.

ASW refers to the capability to detect, locate and if necessary, destroy submarines found intruding in the country's territorial waters.

"We have plans for (developing) an ASW capability but it is still in the long-term plans. This is part of the PN's 'Active Archipelagic Defense Strategy'. We are looking at ship mounted and helo (helicopter) ASW capability," Fabic stressed.

He added that this program will be an important part of the Philippines' defense system once it reaches full bloom.

The PN earlier called the signing of the contract with AgustaWestland, regarding the delivery of three AW-109 "Power" helicopters by 2014, a "significant milestone".

"The PN finds it to be a significant development in line with the (ongoing) modernization program and capability upgrade," it stated.

The AW-109 "Power" helicopters will enhance the PN's capability in various naval operations such as maritime security patrols and search-and-rescue among others.

"These helicopters are just a few among the list of future acquisition for the PN in order to attain its vision of becoming a strong and credible Navy that our maritime nation can be proud of," Fabic emphasized.

http://www.pna.gov.ph/index.php?idn=&sid=&nid=&rid=516014

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