Showing posts with label Capability Upgrade Program. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Capability Upgrade Program. Show all posts
Wednesday, January 22, 2014
2 frigates undergoing bidding to be the most capable in the Philippine Navy
The Philippine Navy said on Wednesday the two frigates, now undergoing bidding at the Department of National Defense, will be the most capable vessels in its inventory.
PN spokesperson Lt. Cmdr. Gregory Fabic said the two vessels, which have a contract of P18 billion, will be armed with a variety of sensors and weapons capable of detecting and neutralizing air, surface, and submarine threats.
Once the bidding process is completed within this year, the two frigates are expected to be delivered by 2017.
"The frigates (now undergoing bidding) will be the most capable vessels in the PN inventory once constructed and commissioned into service," Fabic said.
At the moment, the two most capable ships in the PN are the two Gregorio Del Pilar class frigates acquired from the United States Coast Guard.
These vessels are armed with 76mm Oto Melara auto-cannon, a variety of light weapons and capable of handling, launching, and maintaining a helicopter, in this case the three brand-new AgustaWestland AW-109 "Power" helicopters, and capable of speeds up to 29 knots.
Some technical specifications of the DND's P18-billion frigate program have been revealed by MaxDefense: Philippines, a blogsite for Philippine defense-related matters.
This includes a capability to conduct air-to-air warfare (AAW), anti-surface warfare (ASuW), anti-submarine warfare (ASW), and electronic warfare (EW).
Aside from this, these naval vessels should be able to do extended maritime patrol with an embarked helicopter and operating up to Sea State 6.
It must also have a range of 4,500 nautical miles at 15 knots, endurance of 30 days in tropical condition, and capable of running up to 25 knots of continuous speed.
Navigation equipment of the two ships, at a minimum, must consist of two navigation radars, GPS, depth sounding set, and vessel tracking system compatible to PN's existing system.
The frigates' weapon system, at a minimum, should consist of a 76-mm gun, stabilized secondary gun, four .50-caliber machine guns, surface-to-surface missile launchers, surface-to-air missile launching system, and anti-submarine torpedoes.
Article Source: PNA
1st C-295 aircraft to be delivered within 18 months
Should EADS/CASA-Airbus Military pass the post qualification stage set by the Department of National Defense (DND) for its P5.3 billion medium lift fixed wing project, the first of three C-295 aircraft will be delivered within 18 months upon the opening of the letter of credit.
This will begin by Feb. 1 when members of the technical working group have arrived in Spain, DND undersecretary Fernando Manalo said.
Upon delivery of the first aircraft, the second plane will be delivered after four months and the third after another four months.
EADS/CASA-Airbus Military was declared the only eligible bidder for the DND's medium lift fixed-wing aircraft after competitor PT Dirgantara Indonesia was declared out of the running for its failure to meet the requirements of the DND.
The DND Special Bids and Awards Committee-1 (SBAC-1) said PT Dirgantara’s plane, the C-235, was not compliant with the technical specifications provided by the bid documents.
It added that the Indonesian manufacturer's plane could only carry 34 paratroopers, lower than the 40 set by the DND.
The bid documents also required that the aircraft can carry 11,000 pounds at 950 nautical miles but PT Dirgantara’s plane can only carry 10,120 pounds.
The Spanish aircraft manufacturer offered to supply three C-295 aircraft for P5.29 billion or slightly lower then the P5.3 billion contract price set by the DND.
Article Source: PNA
Tuesday, January 21, 2014
Philippine Navy allots P25M for consultant
The Navy will spend P25-million for the services of a consultant for its multi-billion ship acquisition project.
Commodore Ronald Mercado of the Navy technical working group said the consultant would complement their expertise on the ships' design and capabilities.
"The consultant will provide us the technical expertise and the knowledge," Mercado told reporters in an interview Monday.
The Defense department has allowed the Navy to tap a consultant for the project, which seeks to improve the country's territorial defense capabilities.
The goverment is spending P18 billion to buy two Navy frigates as part of the military's upgrade efforts.
The bidding process for the project started late last year.
The consultant for the project will be chosen through negotiations. Mercado said they are looking for a consultant in the region with proven expertise and track record.
"We need to have it (consultant) within next month," he said.
The budget for the consultant will be charged from the Armed Forces Modernization Fund.
Earlier, THE STAR reported that four companies have been declared eligible to proceed to the next phase of the bidding for the P18-billion project.
The eligible bidders are Navantia Sepi (RTR Ventures) of Spain and South Korean firms STX Offshore & Shipbuilding, Daewoo Shipbuilding & Marine Engineering Co. Ltd. and Hyundai Heavy Industries, Inc.
The four firms passed the first stage of the bidding, which involved the inspection of company eligibility documents.
Three other companies joined the bidding but the Defense department declared their documents to be deficient. The three disqualified firms are now asking the agency to reconsider its decision and to declare them as eligible bidders.
The three bidders that filed motions for reconsideration were Garden Reach Shipbuilders & Engineers Ltd. of India, STX France SA and Thyssenkrupp Marine System.
The Navy will nevertheless review the offers of the four eligible fims while the Defense department deliberates on the appeal of the disqualified bidders.
Mercado said they would conduct workshops in Cavite next month to assess the technical features of the ships being offered. The Navy technical working group will allot five days to each bid submitted.
Mercado said they would allot another three weeks for assessments in the event that the Defense department reverses its decision on the three disqualified firms.
The second phase of the bidding will involve the opening of financial documents to determine who among the bidders is offering the lowest price.
Article Source: The Philippine Star
Commodore Ronald Mercado of the Navy technical working group said the consultant would complement their expertise on the ships' design and capabilities.
"The consultant will provide us the technical expertise and the knowledge," Mercado told reporters in an interview Monday.
The Defense department has allowed the Navy to tap a consultant for the project, which seeks to improve the country's territorial defense capabilities.
The goverment is spending P18 billion to buy two Navy frigates as part of the military's upgrade efforts.
The bidding process for the project started late last year.
The consultant for the project will be chosen through negotiations. Mercado said they are looking for a consultant in the region with proven expertise and track record.
"We need to have it (consultant) within next month," he said.
The budget for the consultant will be charged from the Armed Forces Modernization Fund.
Earlier, THE STAR reported that four companies have been declared eligible to proceed to the next phase of the bidding for the P18-billion project.
The eligible bidders are Navantia Sepi (RTR Ventures) of Spain and South Korean firms STX Offshore & Shipbuilding, Daewoo Shipbuilding & Marine Engineering Co. Ltd. and Hyundai Heavy Industries, Inc.
The four firms passed the first stage of the bidding, which involved the inspection of company eligibility documents.
Three other companies joined the bidding but the Defense department declared their documents to be deficient. The three disqualified firms are now asking the agency to reconsider its decision and to declare them as eligible bidders.
The three bidders that filed motions for reconsideration were Garden Reach Shipbuilders & Engineers Ltd. of India, STX France SA and Thyssenkrupp Marine System.
The Navy will nevertheless review the offers of the four eligible fims while the Defense department deliberates on the appeal of the disqualified bidders.
Mercado said they would conduct workshops in Cavite next month to assess the technical features of the ships being offered. The Navy technical working group will allot five days to each bid submitted.
Mercado said they would allot another three weeks for assessments in the event that the Defense department reverses its decision on the three disqualified firms.
The second phase of the bidding will involve the opening of financial documents to determine who among the bidders is offering the lowest price.
Article Source: The Philippine Star
DND to probe accidents of Spanish firm's planes
The Defense department on Monday vowed to look into the accidents
involving the aircraft being offered by a Spanish firm to the Air Force.
The company, EADS/CASA - Airbus Military, was declared the only eligible bidder for the supply of three new medium lift fixed-wing aircraft worth P5.3-billion. It offered to supply C-295 planes for P5.29-billion during the bidding for the project held this month.
The said aircraft model, however, figured in recent controversies that raised doubts on its quality. These include the 2008 crash which claimed the lives of 20 persons in Poland and the decision of the Czech military to return faulty C-295 planes to EADS/CASA.
Defense officials, however, said the plane’s quality will be scrutinized when they conduct the post-qualification phase.
“At present, we cannot offer any conclusion but we will continue to verify the accidents involving the C-295 during the post qualification phase,” Defense Assistant Secretary Patrick Velez said.
The post-qualification phase allows defense officials to determine whether the planes being offered by EADS/CASA are compliant with the standards they set.
Velez cited reports stating that the 2008 air mishap was caused by human error and not due to the plane’s quality.
EADS/CASA claimed that the Polish Air Force acquired five more C-295 planes four years after the crash but this would be verified by defense officials.
The post-qualification phase for the medium lift fixed-wing aircraft has been slated for next month in Spain.
The Airbus website described the C-295 planes as “the most capable and versatile transport and surveillance aircraft.” The air assets is said to be capable of carrying up to nine tons of payload or up to 71 personnel, at a maximum cruise speed of 260 kt or 480 km/h.
Meanwhile, the Defense department rejected an appeal by an Indonesian firm for it to be declared as an eligible bidder for the project.
PT Dirgantara Indonesia joined the bidding for the medium lift fixed-wing aircraft but was disqualified due to its failure to meet some requirements.
The company filed for a motion for reconsideration but this was rejected yesterday by the Special Bids and Awards Committee 1 (SBAC-1).
The SBAC-1 said PT Dirgantara’s plane was not compliant with the technical specifications provided by the bid documents.
The company’s aircraft can only carry 34 paratroopers, lower than the 40 set by the Defense department. The bid documents also required that the aircraft should have a payload of 11,000 lbs. at 950 nautical miles but PT Dirgantara’s plane can only carry 10,120 lbs.
Article Source: The Philippine Star
The company, EADS/CASA - Airbus Military, was declared the only eligible bidder for the supply of three new medium lift fixed-wing aircraft worth P5.3-billion. It offered to supply C-295 planes for P5.29-billion during the bidding for the project held this month.
The said aircraft model, however, figured in recent controversies that raised doubts on its quality. These include the 2008 crash which claimed the lives of 20 persons in Poland and the decision of the Czech military to return faulty C-295 planes to EADS/CASA.
Defense officials, however, said the plane’s quality will be scrutinized when they conduct the post-qualification phase.
“At present, we cannot offer any conclusion but we will continue to verify the accidents involving the C-295 during the post qualification phase,” Defense Assistant Secretary Patrick Velez said.
The post-qualification phase allows defense officials to determine whether the planes being offered by EADS/CASA are compliant with the standards they set.
Velez cited reports stating that the 2008 air mishap was caused by human error and not due to the plane’s quality.
EADS/CASA claimed that the Polish Air Force acquired five more C-295 planes four years after the crash but this would be verified by defense officials.
The post-qualification phase for the medium lift fixed-wing aircraft has been slated for next month in Spain.
The Airbus website described the C-295 planes as “the most capable and versatile transport and surveillance aircraft.” The air assets is said to be capable of carrying up to nine tons of payload or up to 71 personnel, at a maximum cruise speed of 260 kt or 480 km/h.
Meanwhile, the Defense department rejected an appeal by an Indonesian firm for it to be declared as an eligible bidder for the project.
PT Dirgantara Indonesia joined the bidding for the medium lift fixed-wing aircraft but was disqualified due to its failure to meet some requirements.
The company filed for a motion for reconsideration but this was rejected yesterday by the Special Bids and Awards Committee 1 (SBAC-1).
The SBAC-1 said PT Dirgantara’s plane was not compliant with the technical specifications provided by the bid documents.
The company’s aircraft can only carry 34 paratroopers, lower than the 40 set by the Defense department. The bid documents also required that the aircraft should have a payload of 11,000 lbs. at 950 nautical miles but PT Dirgantara’s plane can only carry 10,120 lbs.
Article Source: The Philippine Star
Sunday, January 19, 2014
Philippine Air Force to acquire 3 modern flight simulators for P246-M
The Philippine Air Force (PAF) is acquiring three modern flight
simulators for P246.4 million to help pilots operate efficiently the
soon-to-be-delivered T-50 fighter jets from South Korea.
The Department of National Defense (DND) said it is bidding out the project designed to enhance the operational capability of the PAF.
“This will allow pilots an almost full sensory experience that can aid improving flight instruction, enhancing proficiency, minimizing risks associated with emergency procedures training, reducing accidents, filling up downtimes, and saving on aircraft operational and maintenance costs,” Defense Undersecretary Efren Fernandez, chair of the Bids and Award Committee for the project, said.
“The DND and the Armed Forces of the Philippines now invite bids from eligible bidders for the Full Motion Flight Simulator Acquisition Project. Delivery of the goods is required within a period of 600 calendar days from the opening of the Letter of Credit (LC),” Fernandez said.
Sources said the government is set to acquire more fighter jets from other countries.
Prior to the opening of the bid for the simulator project on Feb. 10, a pre-bid conference will be held on Jan. 27 at the DND BAC Conference Room at Camp Aguinaldo.
“The DND and the AFP reserves the right to accept or reject any bid, to annul the bidding process, and to reject all bids at any time prior to the contract award, without thereby incurring any liability to the affected bidder or bidders,” Fernandez said.
The defense department is also bidding out a P149-million contract for the construction of Air Force facilities in Tawi-Tawi and Palawan as part of the military’s upgrade of its maritime defense and rescue capabilities in the West Philippine Sea and Sulu Sea.
The DND has also signed an P888-million contract with Israeli defense contractor Elbit Systems Land and C41 for the acquisition of 28 armored infantry vehicles to boost the fighting capability of the 80,000-strong Philippine Army (PA).
Part of the project is retrofitting 24 of the army’s M113 armored personnel carriers with turrets from decommissioned Scorpion light reconnaissance tanks, transforming the M113s into fire support vehicles from merely “battle taxis.” Mounted on Scorpion’s turrets are 76mm cannon and 7.62mm machinegun.
The upgraded M113 fire support vehicle will also be equipped with a new fire control system and thermal imaging system.
Four of the M113s will have the capability of Infantry Fighting Vehicles (IFV) armed with 25mm automatic cannons. Six will be equipped with additional .50 caliber heavy machineguns.
The M113s will also get upgrades on their armor protection and amphibious capability.
The Israeli firm will throw in, for free, four M113 armored recovery and repair vehicles.
The Army expects to roll out the 28 combat vehicles by January 2015, said Defense Undersecretary Patrick Velez. At present, the Army is heavily dependent on 105mm and 155mm howitzers in providing fire support for troops battling Abu Sayyaf terrorists or communist rebels.
Article Source: ABSCBN News
The Department of National Defense (DND) said it is bidding out the project designed to enhance the operational capability of the PAF.
“This will allow pilots an almost full sensory experience that can aid improving flight instruction, enhancing proficiency, minimizing risks associated with emergency procedures training, reducing accidents, filling up downtimes, and saving on aircraft operational and maintenance costs,” Defense Undersecretary Efren Fernandez, chair of the Bids and Award Committee for the project, said.
“The DND and the Armed Forces of the Philippines now invite bids from eligible bidders for the Full Motion Flight Simulator Acquisition Project. Delivery of the goods is required within a period of 600 calendar days from the opening of the Letter of Credit (LC),” Fernandez said.
Sources said the government is set to acquire more fighter jets from other countries.
Prior to the opening of the bid for the simulator project on Feb. 10, a pre-bid conference will be held on Jan. 27 at the DND BAC Conference Room at Camp Aguinaldo.
“The DND and the AFP reserves the right to accept or reject any bid, to annul the bidding process, and to reject all bids at any time prior to the contract award, without thereby incurring any liability to the affected bidder or bidders,” Fernandez said.
The defense department is also bidding out a P149-million contract for the construction of Air Force facilities in Tawi-Tawi and Palawan as part of the military’s upgrade of its maritime defense and rescue capabilities in the West Philippine Sea and Sulu Sea.
The DND has also signed an P888-million contract with Israeli defense contractor Elbit Systems Land and C41 for the acquisition of 28 armored infantry vehicles to boost the fighting capability of the 80,000-strong Philippine Army (PA).
Part of the project is retrofitting 24 of the army’s M113 armored personnel carriers with turrets from decommissioned Scorpion light reconnaissance tanks, transforming the M113s into fire support vehicles from merely “battle taxis.” Mounted on Scorpion’s turrets are 76mm cannon and 7.62mm machinegun.
The upgraded M113 fire support vehicle will also be equipped with a new fire control system and thermal imaging system.
Four of the M113s will have the capability of Infantry Fighting Vehicles (IFV) armed with 25mm automatic cannons. Six will be equipped with additional .50 caliber heavy machineguns.
The M113s will also get upgrades on their armor protection and amphibious capability.
The Israeli firm will throw in, for free, four M113 armored recovery and repair vehicles.
The Army expects to roll out the 28 combat vehicles by January 2015, said Defense Undersecretary Patrick Velez. At present, the Army is heavily dependent on 105mm and 155mm howitzers in providing fire support for troops battling Abu Sayyaf terrorists or communist rebels.
Article Source: ABSCBN News
Saturday, January 18, 2014
Philippine Navy confirms 2 more frigates to be acquired
The Philippine Navy (PN) on Friday announced that it is planning to acquire two more frigates, aside from the two units which the Department of National Defense (DND) is now bidding out.
"(Other than the two frigates that are undergoing bidding, there are two more acquisitions that are being planned," Navy spokesperson Lt. Cmdr. Gregory Fabic said.
No other details are available yet on this projects as it is still on the planning stage.
Fabic said that once this program comes into fruit, the PN will boost a force of seven frigates.
This includes the two Gregorio Del Pilar frigates (formerly the US' Hamilton class cutters) and the BRP Rajah Humabon (PF-11), the last active duty World War II era destroyer escort in PN service.
A PN study revealed that it would need around P497 billion to fully upgrade its fleet.
Once it has this money, the Navy can now acquired the abovementioned items along with four sealift vessels, 18 landing craft utility vessels, three logistics ships, 12 coastal interdiction patrol boats, 30 patrol gunboats, and 42 multi-purpose assault crafts that can be equipped with torpedoes and missiles.
Also included in the envisioned force mix are eight amphibious maritime patrol aicraft, 18 naval helicopters, and eight multi-purpose helicopters.
"Looking at the PN's inventory of mission essential equipment, it is very discernible that majority of our assets and vessels were acquired not necessarily because they fit into our strategy or operational requirement but because they are available as grant from the US or from our allies," the PN study concluded.
Article Source: PTV News
"(Other than the two frigates that are undergoing bidding, there are two more acquisitions that are being planned," Navy spokesperson Lt. Cmdr. Gregory Fabic said.
No other details are available yet on this projects as it is still on the planning stage.
Fabic said that once this program comes into fruit, the PN will boost a force of seven frigates.
This includes the two Gregorio Del Pilar frigates (formerly the US' Hamilton class cutters) and the BRP Rajah Humabon (PF-11), the last active duty World War II era destroyer escort in PN service.
A PN study revealed that it would need around P497 billion to fully upgrade its fleet.
Once it has this money, the Navy can now acquired the abovementioned items along with four sealift vessels, 18 landing craft utility vessels, three logistics ships, 12 coastal interdiction patrol boats, 30 patrol gunboats, and 42 multi-purpose assault crafts that can be equipped with torpedoes and missiles.
Also included in the envisioned force mix are eight amphibious maritime patrol aicraft, 18 naval helicopters, and eight multi-purpose helicopters.
"Looking at the PN's inventory of mission essential equipment, it is very discernible that majority of our assets and vessels were acquired not necessarily because they fit into our strategy or operational requirement but because they are available as grant from the US or from our allies," the PN study concluded.
Article Source: PTV News
The
Philippine Navy (PN) on Friday announced that it is planning to acquire
two more frigates, aside from the two units which the Department of
National Defense (DND) is now bidding out.
"(Other than the two frigates that are undergoing bidding, there are two more acquisitions that are being planned," Navy spokesperson Lt. Cmdr. Gregory Fabic said.
No other details are available yet on this projects as it is still on the planning stage.
Fabic said that once this program comes into fruit, the PN will boost a force of seven frigates.
This includes the two Gregorio Del Pilar frigates (formerly the US' Hamilton class cutters) and the BRP Rajah Humabon (PF-11), the last active duty World War II era destroyer escort in PN service.
A PN study revealed that it would need around P497 billion to fully upgrade its fleet.
Once it has this money, the Navy can now acquired the abovementioned items along with four sealift vessels, 18 landing craft utility vessels, three logistics ships, 12 coastal interdiction patrol boats, 30 patrol gunboats, and 42 multi-purpose assault crafts that can be equipped with torpedoes and missiles.
Also included in the envisioned force mix are eight amphibious maritime patrol aicraft, 18 naval helicopters, and eight multi-purpose helicopters.
"Looking at the PN's inventory of mission essential equipment, it is very discernible that majority of our assets and vessels were acquired not necessarily because they fit into our strategy or operational requirement but because they are available as grant from the US or from our allies," the PN study concluded.
- See more at: http://ptvnews.ph/bottom-news-life2/11-11-nation-submenu/27572-pn-confirms-2-more-frigates-to-be-acquired#sthash.WhXd347c.dpuf
"(Other than the two frigates that are undergoing bidding, there are two more acquisitions that are being planned," Navy spokesperson Lt. Cmdr. Gregory Fabic said.
No other details are available yet on this projects as it is still on the planning stage.
Fabic said that once this program comes into fruit, the PN will boost a force of seven frigates.
This includes the two Gregorio Del Pilar frigates (formerly the US' Hamilton class cutters) and the BRP Rajah Humabon (PF-11), the last active duty World War II era destroyer escort in PN service.
A PN study revealed that it would need around P497 billion to fully upgrade its fleet.
Once it has this money, the Navy can now acquired the abovementioned items along with four sealift vessels, 18 landing craft utility vessels, three logistics ships, 12 coastal interdiction patrol boats, 30 patrol gunboats, and 42 multi-purpose assault crafts that can be equipped with torpedoes and missiles.
Also included in the envisioned force mix are eight amphibious maritime patrol aicraft, 18 naval helicopters, and eight multi-purpose helicopters.
"Looking at the PN's inventory of mission essential equipment, it is very discernible that majority of our assets and vessels were acquired not necessarily because they fit into our strategy or operational requirement but because they are available as grant from the US or from our allies," the PN study concluded.
- See more at: http://ptvnews.ph/bottom-news-life2/11-11-nation-submenu/27572-pn-confirms-2-more-frigates-to-be-acquired#sthash.WhXd347c.dpuf
The
Philippine Navy (PN) on Friday announced that it is planning to acquire
two more frigates, aside from the two units which the Department of
National Defense (DND) is now bidding out.
"(Other than the two frigates that are undergoing bidding, there are two more acquisitions that are being planned," Navy spokesperson Lt. Cmdr. Gregory Fabic said.
No other details are available yet on this projects as it is still on the planning stage.
Fabic said that once this program comes into fruit, the PN will boost a force of seven frigates.
This includes the two Gregorio Del Pilar frigates (formerly the US' Hamilton class cutters) and the BRP Rajah Humabon (PF-11), the last active duty World War II era destroyer escort in PN service.
A PN study revealed that it would need around P497 billion to fully upgrade its fleet.
Once it has this money, the Navy can now acquired the abovementioned items along with four sealift vessels, 18 landing craft utility vessels, three logistics ships, 12 coastal interdiction patrol boats, 30 patrol gunboats, and 42 multi-purpose assault crafts that can be equipped with torpedoes and missiles.
Also included in the envisioned force mix are eight amphibious maritime patrol aicraft, 18 naval helicopters, and eight multi-purpose helicopters.
"Looking at the PN's inventory of mission essential equipment, it is very discernible that majority of our assets and vessels were acquired not necessarily because they fit into our strategy or operational requirement but because they are available as grant from the US or from our allies," the PN study concluded.
- See more at: http://ptvnews.ph/bottom-news-life2/11-11-nation-submenu/27572-pn-confirms-2-more-frigates-to-be-acquired#sthash.WhXd347c.dpuf
"(Other than the two frigates that are undergoing bidding, there are two more acquisitions that are being planned," Navy spokesperson Lt. Cmdr. Gregory Fabic said.
No other details are available yet on this projects as it is still on the planning stage.
Fabic said that once this program comes into fruit, the PN will boost a force of seven frigates.
This includes the two Gregorio Del Pilar frigates (formerly the US' Hamilton class cutters) and the BRP Rajah Humabon (PF-11), the last active duty World War II era destroyer escort in PN service.
A PN study revealed that it would need around P497 billion to fully upgrade its fleet.
Once it has this money, the Navy can now acquired the abovementioned items along with four sealift vessels, 18 landing craft utility vessels, three logistics ships, 12 coastal interdiction patrol boats, 30 patrol gunboats, and 42 multi-purpose assault crafts that can be equipped with torpedoes and missiles.
Also included in the envisioned force mix are eight amphibious maritime patrol aicraft, 18 naval helicopters, and eight multi-purpose helicopters.
"Looking at the PN's inventory of mission essential equipment, it is very discernible that majority of our assets and vessels were acquired not necessarily because they fit into our strategy or operational requirement but because they are available as grant from the US or from our allies," the PN study concluded.
- See more at: http://ptvnews.ph/bottom-news-life2/11-11-nation-submenu/27572-pn-confirms-2-more-frigates-to-be-acquired#sthash.WhXd347c.dpuf
The
Philippine Navy (PN) on Friday announced that it is planning to acquire
two more frigates, aside from the two units which the Department of
National Defense (DND) is now bidding out.
"(Other than the two frigates that are undergoing bidding, there are two more acquisitions that are being planned," Navy spokesperson Lt. Cmdr. Gregory Fabic said.
No other details are available yet on this projects as it is still on the planning stage.
Fabic said that once this program comes into fruit, the PN will boost a force of seven frigates.
This includes the two Gregorio Del Pilar frigates (formerly the US' Hamilton class cutters) and the BRP Rajah Humabon (PF-11), the last active duty World War II era destroyer escort in PN service.
A PN study revealed that it would need around P497 billion to fully upgrade its fleet.
Once it has this money, the Navy can now acquired the abovementioned items along with four sealift vessels, 18 landing craft utility vessels, three logistics ships, 12 coastal interdiction patrol boats, 30 patrol gunboats, and 42 multi-purpose assault crafts that can be equipped with torpedoes and missiles.
Also included in the envisioned force mix are eight amphibious maritime patrol aicraft, 18 naval helicopters, and eight multi-purpose helicopters.
"Looking at the PN's inventory of mission essential equipment, it is very discernible that majority of our assets and vessels were acquired not necessarily because they fit into our strategy or operational requirement but because they are available as grant from the US or from our allies," the PN study concluded.
- See more at: http://ptvnews.ph/bottom-news-life2/11-11-nation-submenu/27572-pn-confirms-2-more-frigates-to-be-acquired#sthash.WhXd347c.dpuf
"(Other than the two frigates that are undergoing bidding, there are two more acquisitions that are being planned," Navy spokesperson Lt. Cmdr. Gregory Fabic said.
No other details are available yet on this projects as it is still on the planning stage.
Fabic said that once this program comes into fruit, the PN will boost a force of seven frigates.
This includes the two Gregorio Del Pilar frigates (formerly the US' Hamilton class cutters) and the BRP Rajah Humabon (PF-11), the last active duty World War II era destroyer escort in PN service.
A PN study revealed that it would need around P497 billion to fully upgrade its fleet.
Once it has this money, the Navy can now acquired the abovementioned items along with four sealift vessels, 18 landing craft utility vessels, three logistics ships, 12 coastal interdiction patrol boats, 30 patrol gunboats, and 42 multi-purpose assault crafts that can be equipped with torpedoes and missiles.
Also included in the envisioned force mix are eight amphibious maritime patrol aicraft, 18 naval helicopters, and eight multi-purpose helicopters.
"Looking at the PN's inventory of mission essential equipment, it is very discernible that majority of our assets and vessels were acquired not necessarily because they fit into our strategy or operational requirement but because they are available as grant from the US or from our allies," the PN study concluded.
- See more at: http://ptvnews.ph/bottom-news-life2/11-11-nation-submenu/27572-pn-confirms-2-more-frigates-to-be-acquired#sthash.WhXd347c.dpuf
The
Philippine Navy (PN) on Friday announced that it is planning to acquire
two more frigates, aside from the two units which the Department of
National Defense (DND) is now bidding out.
"(Other than the two frigates that are undergoing bidding, there are two more acquisitions that are being planned," Navy spokesperson Lt. Cmdr. Gregory Fabic said.
No other details are available yet on this projects as it is still on the planning stage.
Fabic said that once this program comes into fruit, the PN will boost a force of seven frigates.
This includes the two Gregorio Del Pilar frigates (formerly the US' Hamilton class cutters) and the BRP Rajah Humabon (PF-11), the last active duty World War II era destroyer escort in PN service.
A PN study revealed that it would need around P497 billion to fully upgrade its fleet.
Once it has this money, the Navy can now acquired the abovementioned items along with four sealift vessels, 18 landing craft utility vessels, three logistics ships, 12 coastal interdiction patrol boats, 30 patrol gunboats, and 42 multi-purpose assault crafts that can be equipped with torpedoes and missiles.
Also included in the envisioned force mix are eight amphibious maritime patrol aicraft, 18 naval helicopters, and eight multi-purpose helicopters.
"Looking at the PN's inventory of mission essential equipment, it is very discernible that majority of our assets and vessels were acquired not necessarily because they fit into our strategy or operational requirement but because they are available as grant from the US or from our allies," the PN study concluded.
- See more at: http://ptvnews.ph/bottom-news-life2/11-11-nation-submenu/27572-pn-confirms-2-more-frigates-to-be-acquired#sthash.WhXd347c.dpuf
"(Other than the two frigates that are undergoing bidding, there are two more acquisitions that are being planned," Navy spokesperson Lt. Cmdr. Gregory Fabic said.
No other details are available yet on this projects as it is still on the planning stage.
Fabic said that once this program comes into fruit, the PN will boost a force of seven frigates.
This includes the two Gregorio Del Pilar frigates (formerly the US' Hamilton class cutters) and the BRP Rajah Humabon (PF-11), the last active duty World War II era destroyer escort in PN service.
A PN study revealed that it would need around P497 billion to fully upgrade its fleet.
Once it has this money, the Navy can now acquired the abovementioned items along with four sealift vessels, 18 landing craft utility vessels, three logistics ships, 12 coastal interdiction patrol boats, 30 patrol gunboats, and 42 multi-purpose assault crafts that can be equipped with torpedoes and missiles.
Also included in the envisioned force mix are eight amphibious maritime patrol aicraft, 18 naval helicopters, and eight multi-purpose helicopters.
"Looking at the PN's inventory of mission essential equipment, it is very discernible that majority of our assets and vessels were acquired not necessarily because they fit into our strategy or operational requirement but because they are available as grant from the US or from our allies," the PN study concluded.
- See more at: http://ptvnews.ph/bottom-news-life2/11-11-nation-submenu/27572-pn-confirms-2-more-frigates-to-be-acquired#sthash.WhXd347c.dpuf
Wednesday, January 15, 2014
Philippine Military to acquire 2 more ships
The Philippines is planning to acquire two more ships to boost the maritime security capabilities of its military, one of the most poorly-equipped in the region.
Armed Forces chief Gen. Emmanuel Bautista told the ABS-CBN News Channel Wednesday that the military needs to purchase about six naval vessels.
“Ideally we need about six (ships)… That’s part of the plan. In fact we are (conducting) bidding for two frigates so we will acquire them in a couple of years,” the military chief said.
“Ideally we need about six (ships)… That’s part of the plan. In fact we are (conducting) bidding for two frigates so we will acquire them in a couple of years,” the military chief said.
“We realized that there is a real threat out there in terms of securing, defending our territory. We need to be very conscious about that," he added.
The Philippines has acquired two frigates from the United States (US) namely the BRP Gregorio del Pilar, which arrived in the country in 2011 and BRP Ramon Alcaraz, which became part of the Navy inventory last year. The two ships are part of Washington’s excess defense articles program and are now patrolling the country’s territorial waters.
The bidding for two more ships worth P18 billion is underway. The STAR earlier reported that at least four companies have qualified to enter the next stage of the bidding.
These companies are Navantia Sepi (RTR Ventures) of Spain, and South Korean firms STX Offshore & Shipbuilding, Daewoo Shipbuilding & Marine Engineering Co. Ltd., and Hyundai Heavy Industries Inc.
The second stage of the bidding will involve the opening of financial proposals and technical documents. This phase will determine if the bidders’ offers are within the approved budget of P18 billion and if their ships comply with the specifications provided in the bid documents.
Security officials will soon thresh out details of the acquisition of two other vessels.
Bautista, however, said other maritime security equipment will be purchased through the $40-million military aid announced by US State Secretary John Kerry when he visited the Philippines last month.
He said among the items to be prioritized are radars, maritime patrol aircraft and patrol ships.
The US assistance aims to improve the Philippines’ maritime security and domain awareness amid recent aggressive actions by China in the West Philippine Sea (South China Sea).
The grant will be spent over three years and will be under the US Global Security Contingency Fund.
“We are upgrading our capabilities to address all our mandates, internal security, defending our territory, and also helping in disaster relief and rescue operations,” Bautista said.
A total of P41.2-billion worth of military upgrade projects have been completed and awarded during the first three years of the Aquino administration, according to the Defense department.
The amount represents 36 projects that were spread out to the Armed Forces General Headquarters, the Government Arsenal and the three major services namely the Army, the Air Force and the Navy.
A total of 16 Navy projects worth P5.3-billion have been completed including the acquisition of frigates BRP Alcaraz and BRP del Pilar and three naval helicopters worth P1.34-billion.
The Navy is expecting the delivery of P6.4-billion worth of equipment including the strategic sealift vessels, additional naval helicopters and amphibious vehicles.
Article Source: The Philippine Star
Philippines seeks more US navy ships amid China threat
The Philippines wants to acquire two more navy ships from the United States to boost its maritime protection amid threats from China, Armed Forces Chief of Staff General Emmanuel Bautista said Wednesday.
The new acquisitions would come under the fresh US military assistance announced by US Secretary of State John Kerry when he visited the Philippines last month, Bautista said.
“Within the last year, we realised that there is a real threat out there in terms of securing, defending our territory,” Bautista told ANC television.
He said that ideally the country needed about six more frigates to guard its long coastline effectively.
“In fact, we are bidding now for two frigates, hopefully we will be able to acquire them in (a) couple of years,” Bautista said.
He said he has made “maritime domain awareness” and protection a key concern of his leadership.
The funds used to boost maritime defense, he said, would come from the $40 million military assistance pledged by Kerry in December.
The Philippines has already acquired two refurbished American frigates in the past two years, and they now lead patrols in the West Philippine Sea.
Article Source: Philippine Daily Inquirer
Tuesday, January 14, 2014
Spanish firm sole eligible bidder for P5.3B Philippine Air Force aircraft
A Spanish firm has been declared the only eligible bidder for the supply of three new Air Force medium lift fixed-wing aircraft worth P5.3-billion.
EADS/CASA - Airbus Military was the sole bidder that met the Defense department’s technical and financial requirements during Monday's bidding in Camp Aguinaldo.
It offered to supply the aircraft for about P5,289 billion, lower than the P5.3-billion approved budget for the project.
The Spanish company plans to deliver C-295 planes, which were described by the Airbus website as “the most capable and versatile transport and surveillance aircraft.” Airbus said the air assets can carry up to nine tons of payload or up to 71 personnel, at a maximum cruise speed of 260 kt or 480 km/h.
The C-295 plane manufactured by EADS/CASA landed on the news in previous years due to issues involving its quality.
Reports published in 2012 said the Czech military had returned the C-295 planes to EADS/CASA after they were found to be faulty. The same model figured in a 2008 crash in Poland that left 20 people dead.
Philippine defense officials, however, are expected to inspect the planes during the bidding’s post-qualification phase. The phase will allow the Defense department to validate the claims made by the bidder in its documents and to assess the quality of aircraft to be supplied.
The post-qualification phase is expected to begin within the month or after the SBAC-1 addresses the issues raised by Italian firm Alenia Aermacchi, one of the firms that expressed interest on the project.
“Since the post qualification will be in Spain, it will probably take not less than one week to do the post qualification,” Defense Undersecretary Fernando Manalo said.
Alenia Aermacchi has questioned the source of funding for the project as well as the supposed links between EADS/CASA - Airbus Military and the other bidder PT Dirgantara Indonesia.
Defense officials vowed to respond to the complaints of Alenia Aermacchi once they are filed formally.
Two companies submitted offers for the project, which is one of the big-ticket items in the military’s upgrade program.
The other bidder, PT Dirgantara Indonesia, was declared ineligible because its offer did not satisfy some technical specifications.
The Air Force technical working group said PT Dirgantara’s planes could only carry 34 troopers while the requirement states that it should be at least 40. The Indonesian firm’s offer is also not compliant with some payload requirements.
Part of EADS/CASA’s bid is a P795.87 million worth of integrated logistics, which include training and spare parts.
If EADS/CASA - Airbus Military satisfies the post-qualification requirements, it will be declared the winning bidder.
Defense Assistant Secretary Patrick Velez said the first of the three planes may be delivered in the latter part of the year. The Air Force may receive the remaining two aircraft within eight months after the initial delivery.
Article Source: The Philippine Star
Sunday, January 12, 2014
Philippine Navy AW-109 pilots now undergoing FLIR, NVG training
The pilots and aircrew of the three AgustaWestland AW-109 "Power" helicopters delivered and commissioned last December are now undergoing training on the proper usage and deployment of the forward-looking infrared (FLIR) and night vision equipment (NVG) which are installed in the aircraft.
Lt. Cmdr. Gregory Fabic, Navy spokesperson, said the training, being conducted by technical representatives of AgustaWestland, started in late December and will continue until the end of March.
"With its FLIR, the AW-109s have a more enhanced search-and-rescue capability than any of our existing aircraft. Also, it is fitted with a night vision gear, making it very ideal to conduct missions during nighttime," Fabic said earlier.
FLIR uses an imaging technology that senses infrared radiation.
The sensors installed in forward-looking infrared cameras — as well as those of other thermal imaging cameras — use detection of infrared radiation, typically emitted from a heat source (thermal radiation), to create a "picture" assembled for video output.
The AW-109 "Power" helicopter is a three-ton class eight-seat helicopter powered by two Pratt and Whitney PW206C engines.
The spacious cabin is designed to be fitted with a number of modular equipment packages for quick and easy conversion between roles.
The aircraft’s safety features include a fully separated fuel system, dual hydraulic boost system, dual electrical systems and redundant lubrication and cooling systems for the main transmission and engines.
The AW-109 has established itself as the world’s best selling light-twin helicopter for maritime missions.
Its superior speed, capacity and productivity combined with reliability and ease of maintenance make it the most cost-effective maritime helicopter in its class.
For shipboard operations, the aircraft has a reinforced-wheeled landing gear and deck mooring points as well as extensive corrosion protection measures.
The ability to operate from small ships in high sea state enables the AW-109 to perform its mission when many other helicopters would be confined to the ship’s hangar.
Over 550 AW-109 "Power" and AW-109 light utility helicopters have been ordered for commercial, para-public and military applications by customers in almost 50 countries.
Article Source: PNA
Lt. Cmdr. Gregory Fabic, Navy spokesperson, said the training, being conducted by technical representatives of AgustaWestland, started in late December and will continue until the end of March.
"With its FLIR, the AW-109s have a more enhanced search-and-rescue capability than any of our existing aircraft. Also, it is fitted with a night vision gear, making it very ideal to conduct missions during nighttime," Fabic said earlier.
FLIR uses an imaging technology that senses infrared radiation.
The sensors installed in forward-looking infrared cameras — as well as those of other thermal imaging cameras — use detection of infrared radiation, typically emitted from a heat source (thermal radiation), to create a "picture" assembled for video output.
The AW-109 "Power" helicopter is a three-ton class eight-seat helicopter powered by two Pratt and Whitney PW206C engines.
The spacious cabin is designed to be fitted with a number of modular equipment packages for quick and easy conversion between roles.
The aircraft’s safety features include a fully separated fuel system, dual hydraulic boost system, dual electrical systems and redundant lubrication and cooling systems for the main transmission and engines.
The AW-109 has established itself as the world’s best selling light-twin helicopter for maritime missions.
Its superior speed, capacity and productivity combined with reliability and ease of maintenance make it the most cost-effective maritime helicopter in its class.
For shipboard operations, the aircraft has a reinforced-wheeled landing gear and deck mooring points as well as extensive corrosion protection measures.
The ability to operate from small ships in high sea state enables the AW-109 to perform its mission when many other helicopters would be confined to the ship’s hangar.
Over 550 AW-109 "Power" and AW-109 light utility helicopters have been ordered for commercial, para-public and military applications by customers in almost 50 countries.
Article Source: PNA
Friday, January 10, 2014
Indonesian firm wins bidding for supply of 2 Philippine Navy vessels
An Indonesian company has won the bidding for the supply of two new vessels for the Navy.
Sources told The STAR a notice of award for the P4-billion acquisition of two strategic sealift vessels was issued to PT PAL Indonesia (Persero) late last month.
This was confirmed yesterday by Defense Undersecretary Fernando Manalo, who oversees the military’s upgrade efforts.
“Yes, I think there is a NOA (notice of award) already,” Manalo said when asked whether PT PAL had won the bidding for the project.
PT PAL offered to supply the two ships for $86,980,000 or about P3.864 billion, well within the approved budget of P4 billion.
The strategic sealift vessels can be used for civil-military operations and for transporting large number of soldiers, logistics and supplies. Each of the vessels can also accommodate three helicopters.
Nine companies bought bid documents for the project but only two of them submitted offers.
The other bidder, Daewoo International, was declared by the Bids and Awards Committee as ineligible due to its failure to meet certain technical requirements.
The other companies that had expressed interest in the project but had not submitted bids were Propmech Corp., Larsen & Toubro, Stone of David Tactical Equipment, STX Offshore Shipbuilding Co., Keppel Philippines Marine Inc., PT Citra Shipyard, and a joint venture between Astartez Defense and Rescue Solution Co. and Coastal Industries Pse. Ltd.
PT PAL underwent post-qualification process in the last quarter of 2013 before it was declared the winner. The post-qualification phase sought to verify the financial and technical documents submitted by the bidder.
The strategic sealift vessels acquisition project is one of the big-ticket items in the military’s upgrade program.
Article Source: ABS-CBN News
Wednesday, January 08, 2014
Philippine Army to boost fire support with 14 APCs
The Philippine Army will acquire 14 M113 armored personnel carriers in 2015 to boost its fire support capabilities.
Army spokesperson Capt. Anthony Bacus said the M113 vehicles will be installed with 76-mm turrets among others from decommissioned Scorpion combat vehicle reconnaissance (tracked) units.
"It will be fitted with modern fire control and thermal imaging equipment. Once it is completed, the 76mm cannon armed M113s will be quite lethal," Bacus added.
The Army is currently operating over 100 M113 units, and the would-be acquisitions are manufactured by BAE Systems Land and Armaments.
In the United States Army, the M113 series have been replaced as front-line combat vehicles by the M2 and M3 Bradley.
The Department of National Defense had said that more than P85 billion is needed for the modernization of the Armed Forces of the Philippines from 2014 to 2018.
Last year, the Army commissioned excessM1114 Armored Humvees as well as M939 and M35 truck series from the US. The new fighting vehicles provided fire support during the Zamboanga siege last September.
Article Source: The Philippine Star
Monday, January 06, 2014
Philippine Army has 273 artillery pieces
Not many people are aware of it but the Philippine Army (PA), which fields 10 infantry divisions, has an estimated 273 artillery pieces in its inventory.
This number does not include artillery pieces owned by the Philippine Marine Corps, Army spokesperson Capt. Anthony Bacus said.
Around 24 of these weapons are the heavy 155mm howitzers with the remaining guns consisting of various models of the 105mm howitzer, an artillery piece capable of being towed or tracked into combat.
These weapons are constantly being maintained and modernized to provide Army units with a relatively heavy punch.
Bacus said that six of these guns are grouped to make one battery.
He added that these guns serves as fire support and bombardment weapons of the PA.
The Army spokesperson also stressed that batteries of these guns are assigned to all of the PA’s infantry divisions.
However, he declined to comment on how many batteries each division possessed for reasons of security.
Earlier, the Department of National Defense announced that it is acquiring 12 units of towed 155mm howitzers for P438,620,000.
This includes 240 rounds of 155mm HE (high explosive) and integrated logistic support.
Saturday, January 04, 2014
Philippine Army vows to provide modern combat equipment for soldiers this year
The commanding general of the Philippine Army has visited Camp Melchor dela Cruz here for an exit visit to the army officials and personnel of the camp.
Lieutenant General Noel Coballes, Philippine Army chief, visited the camp yesterday announcing that modern firearms and combat equipment are set to be provided to the army soldiers this year.
Coballes said the provision of modern firearms and other combat equipment of soldiers is provided under the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) modernization program.
Among the combat equipment to be provided are firearms, first aid kits, combat shoes, bullet proof vests and other protective gears.
Coballes lauded the officials and personnel of the army division for continuously performing their duties in protecting the country and the people.
The army chief is set to retire next month when he met the mandatory retirement age in the military.
Article Source
Thursday, January 02, 2014
DND may spend P4.5 B for fighter jet munitions
The Department of National Defense is planning to spend about P4.5 billion to arm the 12 lead-in fighter trainer jets it is seeking to acquire from South Korea.
Defense department data show that the munitions for the fighter jets are not included in the aircraft acquisition program under the revised Armed Forces modernization law.
The acquisition of munitions for the fighter jets will be divided into four phases – P4.33 billion for the first two and P139 million for the other two.
Details of the items to be installed in the jets were not immediately available. Previous reports, however, said the aircraft being eyed can be armed with precision guided bombs and air-to-air and air-to-surface missiles.
The defense department said the munitions may be acquired either through negotiated or public bidding.
The mode of procurement depends on the availability of the items in the market. Military equipment being offered by several suppliers are normally acquired through public bidding, while specialized ones are usually acquired through negotiations.
The government aims to shell out P18.9 billion to acquire 12 FA-50 jets from South Korea to improve the country’s territorial defense capabilities.
Security officials are now negotiating with South Korean firm Korean Aerospace Industries (KAI) for the project.
The government also aims to spend P135.99 million for the basing support systems for the fighter jets.
Earlier, Defense Secretary Voltaire Gazmin said the delivery of the jets may start in June 2015.
The defense department had asked Malacañang to allow the release of a 52-percent down payment to KAI.
The law permits state agencies to pay 15- percent down payment to suppliers while the rest of the amount would be paid upon delivery of the goods.
KAI wants the Philippines to pay 52- percent down payment to cover the aircraft manufacturing costs. Such payment scheme would require the approval of President Aquino.
The acquisition of FA-50 jets is one of the big ticket items in the military’s multibillion-peso upgrade program.
PTDI Sell 2 Aircraft to the Philippine Military
State Owned Enterprises (SOEs) aircraft manufacturer, PT Indonesian Aerospace (PT DI), has won a tender for the procurement of military aircraft Philippines. Owned company based in Bandung, West Java, is ready to sell 2 units NC212i type aircraft by U.S. $ 18 million or the equivalent of 820 million pesos.
"We won 2 units in the project NC212i Light Lift Aircraft worth U.S. $ 18 million budget," said Director of Commerce and Restructuring PTDI Budiman Saleh in a statement to the, Monday (30/12/2013).
This aircraft procurement tender held by the Ministry of Defense for the purposes of the Air Force he said. Workmanship for the period of 2 units is projected to engulf the time 18-20 months.
NC212i itself is the new generation of aircraft types NC212-200 or NC212-400. This aircraft is a small aircraft. aircraft, can be used for commercial purposes, military personnel transport, cargo, VIP transportation to special missions.
For the civilian version of civil aviation, these aircraft can be fitted seat 24 passengers. Budiman explained, PT DI also plans to participate in a tender medium type aircraft in the Ministry of Defence Philippines.
PTDI ready to offer a type aircraft CN235 Maritime Patrol Aircraft native son of the nation's work. "in January 2014, we will follow the next tender for maritime patrol 3-4 / CN235 military transport," he said.
Note: Original news info was translated via Google.
Article Link Here
"We won 2 units in the project NC212i Light Lift Aircraft worth U.S. $ 18 million budget," said Director of Commerce and Restructuring PTDI Budiman Saleh in a statement to the, Monday (30/12/2013).
This aircraft procurement tender held by the Ministry of Defense for the purposes of the Air Force he said. Workmanship for the period of 2 units is projected to engulf the time 18-20 months.
NC212i itself is the new generation of aircraft types NC212-200 or NC212-400. This aircraft is a small aircraft. aircraft, can be used for commercial purposes, military personnel transport, cargo, VIP transportation to special missions.
For the civilian version of civil aviation, these aircraft can be fitted seat 24 passengers. Budiman explained, PT DI also plans to participate in a tender medium type aircraft in the Ministry of Defence Philippines.
PTDI ready to offer a type aircraft CN235 Maritime Patrol Aircraft native son of the nation's work. "in January 2014, we will follow the next tender for maritime patrol 3-4 / CN235 military transport," he said.
Note: Original news info was translated via Google.
Article Link Here
Tuesday, March 19, 2013
British arms industry sets sights on AFP modernization
MANILA - The British arms industry wants to supply the Philippines' Department of National Defense (DND) with state-of-the-art weaponry.
UK Ambassador Stephen Lillie told reporters on Monday night that two British business delegations are in town to explore trade opportunities here.
An eight-person delegation active in the aid-funded business sector will meet with the Manila-based Asian Development Bank (ADB) to explore opportunities linked to the regional lender's projects not only in the Philippines but also across Asia.
Cheryl Boxall, UK Trade and Investment (UKTI) Aid-funded Business Service Project manager, said the group is interested in agriculture, education, health, mining, power, public transportation, among others.
Thirteen British companies in the defense sector are also in Manila following earlier discussions with the DND. The delegation will meet with officials of the DND and the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) during the two-day UK Defence and Technology Event that starts today.
"The DND is engaged in a very big modernization program. We're looking at this opportunity. We have a very strong defense industry in the UK. We want to showcase what the UK can do," Lillie said.
The British ambassador said the wide range of defense equipment and technologies made and developed in the UK are of good quality, "high-tech" and have value for money.
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Ben Arnold O. De Vera | InterAksyon.com | March 19, 2013 | Article Link
Sunday, March 10, 2013
PNoy signs law boosting gov't arsenal with P75B
CITY OF BALANGA, Bataan, March 8 (PIA) -- Top officials in Bataan have expressed high hopes on getting beefier national security and economic development after President Aquino signed a law that will provide P75 billion to upgrade the armed forces, benefiting the government arsenal located in the province.
Republic Act No. 10349 or the Revised Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) Modernization Program seeks to develop the army into a multi-mission-oriented force capable of effectively addressing internal and external security threats.
It has a budget of P75 billion for the first five years of implementation that includes the procurement of major weapon and non-weapon equipment and technology, and the construction of needed major infrastructures.
Bataan 2nd District Representative Albert Garcia said the law was a “landmark legislation” that was consolidated from his original House Bill No. 76 which sought to modernize the Government Arsenal, the country’s maker of basic weaponry and ammunition, located in Limay town.
“I filed this bill as early as the 14th Congress precisely to rehabilitate our 370-hectare Government Arsenal in Lamao, Limay, Bataan which, to date, remains under-utilized and unproductive,” said Garcia.
He said that only four types of ammunition are produced in the defense estate: the 7.62mm M80, 5.56mm M193, Cal .45 M1911, and 9mm Parabellum.
“There is a need to upgrade the capability of the Government Arsenal to produce not only small arms ammunition but also higher caliber ammunition such as 40 cal., and even mortars and other crew-served weapons ammunition,” Garcia said.
Also, the development of the land is projected to create more jobs for residents of Bataan and become a catalyst for economic activity, he added.
The Philippine National Police (PNP) which also gets munitions from the arsenal were elated over the law which a top local official said will be integral in sustaining national security and public safety.
“If we will be self-sufficient with ammunition and equipment, the police and soldiers will no longer get from other manufacturers. Kudos to Abet for pushing this law,” said PNP-Bataan Director Ricardo Zapata Jr., referring to the lawmaker
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Republic Act No. 10349 or the Revised Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) Modernization Program seeks to develop the army into a multi-mission-oriented force capable of effectively addressing internal and external security threats.
It has a budget of P75 billion for the first five years of implementation that includes the procurement of major weapon and non-weapon equipment and technology, and the construction of needed major infrastructures.
Bataan 2nd District Representative Albert Garcia said the law was a “landmark legislation” that was consolidated from his original House Bill No. 76 which sought to modernize the Government Arsenal, the country’s maker of basic weaponry and ammunition, located in Limay town.
“I filed this bill as early as the 14th Congress precisely to rehabilitate our 370-hectare Government Arsenal in Lamao, Limay, Bataan which, to date, remains under-utilized and unproductive,” said Garcia.
He said that only four types of ammunition are produced in the defense estate: the 7.62mm M80, 5.56mm M193, Cal .45 M1911, and 9mm Parabellum.
“There is a need to upgrade the capability of the Government Arsenal to produce not only small arms ammunition but also higher caliber ammunition such as 40 cal., and even mortars and other crew-served weapons ammunition,” Garcia said.
Also, the development of the land is projected to create more jobs for residents of Bataan and become a catalyst for economic activity, he added.
The Philippine National Police (PNP) which also gets munitions from the arsenal were elated over the law which a top local official said will be integral in sustaining national security and public safety.
“If we will be self-sufficient with ammunition and equipment, the police and soldiers will no longer get from other manufacturers. Kudos to Abet for pushing this law,” said PNP-Bataan Director Ricardo Zapata Jr., referring to the lawmaker
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Jose Mari Garcia | Philippine Information Agency | March 8, 2013 | Article Link
Thursday, March 07, 2013
Terms Of Reference for F/A-50 'Golden Eagle' now being crafted
MANILA — The Philippines is now on track to operate again supersonic jet aircraft as the "term of reference" (TOR) for the F/A-50 "Golden Eagle" is now in the works.
"Procurement for the F/A-50 will be on a government-to-government basis," the Department of National Defense (DND) observer stressed.
He also said the go-ahead signal for the TOR only came last week.
The order came from the Government Procurement Policy Board (GPPB), an attached agency of the Department of Budget and Management.
The DND observer declined to comment on when the TOR will be completed but stressed that it will be done within the year.
But he expressed confidence that the Philippine Air Force (PAF) will be flying the F/A-50 within two years time.
The last supersonic planes operated by the country was the Northrop F-5 "Freedom Fighter" which was decommissioned due to lack of parts and air frame aging sometime in 2005.
The TOR describes the purpose and structure of a project, committee, meeting and negotiation.
It also defines the vision, objectives, scope and deliverables (i.e. what has to be achieved); stakeholders, roles and responsibilities (i.e. who will take part in it); resource, financial and quality plans (i.e. how it will be achieved); work breakdown structure and schedule (i.e. when it will be achieved) and includes success factors/risks and restraints.
The Philippines is in the market for 12 supersonic trainer aircraft which can double as interim fighter and attack planes for the PAF. It has allocated P18 billion for this program.
The GPPB earlier gave the DND the "green-light" to start pre-negotiations with the South Korean government for 12 F/A 50 aircraft last January.
The plane is manufactured by the Korea Aerospace Industries (KAI). The F/A-50 is also known as the TA-50.
The F/A-50 design is largely derived from the F-16 "Fighting Falcon", and they have many similarities: use of a single engine, speed, size, cost, and the range of weapons.
KAI's previous engineering experience in license-producing the KF-16 was a starting point for the development of the F/A-50.
The aircraft can carry two pilots in tandem seating. The high-mounted canopy developed by Hankuk Fiber is applied with stretched acrylic, providing the pilots with good visibility and has been tested to offer the canopy with ballistic protection against four-pound objects impacting at 400 knots.
The altitude limit is 14,600 meters (48,000 feet), and airframe is designed to last 8,000 hours of service.
There are seven internal fuel tanks with capacity of 2,655 liters (701 US gallons), five in the fuselage and two in the wings.
An additional 1,710 liters (452 US gallons) of fuel can be carried in the three external fuel tanks.
Trainer variants have a paint scheme of white and red, and aerobatic variants white, black, and yellow.
The F/A-50 "Golden Eagle" uses a single General Electric F404-102 turbofan engine license-produced by Samsung Techwin, upgraded with a full authority digital engine control system jointly developed by General Electric and KAI.
The engine consists of three-staged fans, seven axial stage arrangement, and an afterburner.
The aircraft has a maximum speed of Mach 1.4-1.5.
Its engine produces a maximum of 78.7 kN (17,700 lbf) of thrust with afterburner.
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Priam F. Nepomuceno | Philippine News Agency/Zambo Times |
March 6, 2013 | Article Link
Wednesday, March 06, 2013
Last batch of Sokol helicopters undergoes tests
THE last batch of W-3A Sokol helicopters that the government bought from Poland has been placed under flight and certification tests as a prelude to commissioning, a Philippine Air Force (PAF) official said.
“Our crew are putting [the aircrafts] in a series of tests and for certification. Once these requirements are met, commissioning of the four will immediately follow,” PAF Spokesman Col. Miguel Ernesto Okol said on Monday.
The four 6-ton class helicopters are the last of the eight batches that the Department of National Defense (DND) ordered from PZL-Swidnik SA in 2010.
The first four were delivered last year and were commissioned in March 2012.
The fifth and sixth Sokol helicopters, on the other hand, arrived in the Philippines on November 26, 2012. The seventh and eighth batches were delivered last month.
PZL-Swidnik, an AgustaWestland company, said the Sokols were transported from Lublin Airport to Clark Air Base onboard an An-124 Ruslan large cargo airplane.
The company added that the Sokols are “equipped with the latest navigation and avionics systems including 4-axis autopilot, EFIS system and night-vision goggle- compatible cockpit, allowing them to operate day and night in all weather conditions.”
Each helicopter, it added, can transport up to 11 troops in the cabin or can lift up to 2,100 kilograms, or 4,630 pounds, using its external cargo hook.
Powered by two engines, each with the take-off power of 662 kilowatts, the Sokols reach maximum speed of 260 kilometers per hour or 140 knots.
The company added that each helicopter can fly 734 kilometers or 402 nautical miles or stay airborne for over four hours using its standard fuel tanks.
“I’m pleased that the excellent operational capabilities of the Sokols are greatly appreciated by the Philippine Air Force. I look forward to expanding our close partnership with the customer in the future providing technical support and ongoing operational support for the Sokols,” PZL-Swidnik’s statement quoted Management Board President Mieczysław Majewski as saying.
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Dennis D. Estopace | Business Mirror | March 4, 2013 | Article Link
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