Despite lacking the massive tankers and oilers being operated by most modern fleets, the Philippine Navy's "replenishment at sea" capability is still very much active, according to Lt.(j.g.) Rommel Rodriguez, Philippine Fleet spokesperson.
The term "replenishment at sea" refers to the ability of a vessel to refuel and reload basic supplies, without returning to port, via tanker or mother ship, Rodriquez said, adding that this function is being carried out by landing ship tanks and large patrol craft or frigates of the Navy.
He added that having this capability allows the small fast craft or gunboats more time to patrol the high seas, protecting it from poachers and intruders.
Rodriquez expects this ability to be further improved once the two strategic sealift ships of the PN are commissioned by 2017.
Earlier, sources said that the PN will be getting three tanker ships from the Philippine National Oil Corporation to boost its "replenishment at sea" capability.
The vessels are expected to arrive by May.
http://www.pna.gov.ph/index.php?idn=1&sid=&nid=1&rid=622715
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