Philippine Navy to acquire 2 missile-armed frigates, 2 anti-submarine helicopters next year

From the Philippine News Agency (Dec 23): Philippine Navy to acquire 2 missile-armed frigates, 2 anti-submarine helicopters next year

The Philippine Navy said the contract for the acquisition of two missile-armed frigates and two anti-submarine helicopters will be signed and awarded to qualified proponents early next year.

This was announced Tuesday by chief of naval staff for logistic, Capt. Alberto Carlos.

"For the frigate and the anti-submarine helicopters, we are looking at signing the contract by early next year," he said.

He added that both assets will be working in tandem together, giving the Philippine Navy a much needed punch in securing the country's vast territorial waters.

Carlos said he expects these assets to be delivered within three to four years as building brand-new ships and helicopters require a lengthy process.

The country is allocating Php18 billion for its two missile-armed frigates which can also perform anti-air, anti-submarine, and anti-surface missions.

Another Php5.4 billion is allocated for the two anti-submarine helicopters.

Both projects are currently undergoing the bidding process.

http://www.pna.gov.ph/index.php?idn=1&sid=&nid=1&rid=718771