2 Australian-donated LCHs formally commissioned to PN service

From the Philippine News Agency (Jul 23): 2 Australian-donated LCHs formally commissioned to PN service

The two "Balikpapan"-class landing craft heavy (LCH), donated by the Australian government to the Philippines, was formally turned over and commissioned into Filipino service Thursday morning.

The turnover ceremonies took place at Cairns, Australia, Philippine Navy (PN) public affairs office chief Cmdr. Lued Lincuna said in a message to the PNA.

Present during the turnover and commissioning of two LCHs were PN flag-officer-in-command Vice Admiral Jesus C. Millan, Philippine Fleet commander Rear Admiral Leopoldo Alano and Sealift Amphibious Force head Commodore Narciso Vingson, Jr.

The two ships were named BRP Ivatan (AT-298) and BRP Batak (AT-299).

They will be joining the five other landing craft units in PN service.

The two ships are expected to arrive in the Philippines last week July or first week August.

Last June 29, a group of PN personnel was dispatched to Cairns, Australia to act as the LCHs sailing and logistics crew.

The two donated LCHs are formerly named the HMAS Tarakan and HMAS Brunei in the Royal Australian Navy service.

The ships were decommissioned from Australian service at a ceremony in Cairns last Nov. 19, 2014.

LCHs are an extremely versatile vessel, capable of moving large amounts of cargo, personnel and equipment from larger ships to shore.

http://www.pna.gov.ph/index.php?idn=1&sid=&nid=1&rid=785454