India orders Kalyani M4 armored vehicles under emergency program

The Kalyani M4 4x4 armored vehicle. Photo c/o Kalyani Group.

 

The Indian Ministry of Defence (MOD) has ordered an unspecified number of Kalyani M4 4x4 armored vehicles from Indian company Bharat Forge in a deal worth INR1.78 billion (US$24.6 million).

This was announced by Bharat Forge on 23 February 2021, following the signing of an agreement with South African defense company Paramount Group during the second day of the International Defence Expo (IDEX) 2021 in Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates.

The vehicles were said to have been ordered under the Indian MOD’s emergency procurement program for the Indian Army, and is related to the standoff with China in the Himalayan common borders.

The number of vehicles ordered are expected to be few, but the Indian Army is said to be eyeing a total of 200 vehicles

The Kalyani M4 is an Indian derivative of the Paramount Group’s Mbombe 4 4x4 wheeled mine resistant, ambush protected (MRAP) vehicle, with Indian-specified modifications and will be built locally under license by Bharat Forge as part of the Indian government’s “Make-in-India” self-reliance program.

The Kalyani M4 is a multi-role platform, with ballistic and blast protection from up to 50 kilograms of TNT side blast, or IED and roadside bombs. It has a maximum speed of 140 kilometers per hour, an operating range of 800 kilometers, and a payload capacity of up to 2.3 tons.

The vehicle was said to have undergone a period of testing in Ladakh region in India, which the vehicles are expected to be deployed once in service with the Indian Army.

This would allow protected and quick deployment of troops in high altitudes and rough terrain




[1] The Print
[2] The Eurasian Times
[3] Economic Times India

Indonesia plans to start producing indigenous N219 amphibian aircraft by 2024

 

The N219 amphibious aircraft. Photo c/o BPPT Indonesia.

Indonesian aircraft manufacturer PT Dirgantara Indonesia (PTDI) is aiming to start mass production the amphibious version of its indigenous N219 twin engine aircraft by 2024.

This was confirmed by PTDI’s Director of Technology and Development Gita Amperiawan, who also confirmed that the Indonesian Minister of Transportation asked about updates on the project.

PTDI has developed the standard take-off and landing version of the N219 aircraft and has recently being given type certification which would allow PTDI to start commercial production of the aircraft, although development of the N219 amphibious aircraft’s technology is still ongoing.

The N219 is a 19-seater, twin engine aircraft designed for multipurpose missions, and was designed to operate in and out of remote, semi-prepared airstrips. 

The aircraft was developed from PTDI’s experience in license production of the CASA C-212 Aviocar, and is expected to be slightly cheaper than other similar sized aircraft like the Viking DHC-6 Twin Otter.

Due to the archipelagic nature of the country, Indonesia is keen on using amphibious aircraft to reduce reliance on airport infrastructure, and easily reach islands and tourist destinations that are inaccessible to airports.

The standard and amphibious versions of the N219 aircraft is also being eyed by the Indonesian National Armed Forces (TNI) for military utility and transportation requirements, as well as for special missions including search and rescue (SAR) and maritime patrol. 




[1] Antara News
[2] The Jakarta Post

Vietnam expected to receive 3 trainer aircraft from United States

T-6A Texan II of the US Air Force. Photo c/o Wikipedia.

The US Air Force announced that it is pushing for a contract for the supply of three (3) trainer aircraft for the Vietnam People’s Air Force (VPAF). 

The aircraft, which is undergoing bidding in the US, is said to have a handover date by mid-2023 if a contract is signed within 2021.  

The planned provision of training aircraft for Vietnam is said to be part of a strategic program of regional security cooperation and assistance between the US Air Force and VPAF. 

 While no aircraft model was specified, it is said to be most likely the Beechcraft T-6 Texan II advanced turboprop trainer aircraft, in which a few select Vietnamese pilots have completed training with in the US in 2019. 

 It was previously reported that the VPAF has showed its interest in acquiring the T-6 Texan II aircraft, as the VPAF tries to expand its option including considering Western-made assets as part of its modernization. 

 But so far no order has been made. Instead, the VPAF has ordered 12 new generation L-39NG advanced jet trainers to eventually replace the legacy L-39 Albatross jet trainers, which are several decades old and are in need of replacement despite upgrades. 

 Currently, the VPAF is using the Soviet-era Yak-52 propeller aircraft for primary flight training, and the Aero Vodochody L-39 Albatross jet trainer for advanced flight training. 

 The transfer of 3 new US-made trainer aircraft would allow the entry of US-made systems into the VPAF, which currently uses mostly Soviet, Cold War-era Eastern-block, and Russian-made systems. 

[1] Vietnam Times 

 [2] Flight Global 

Philippines receives 1st EDA C-130H Hercules, to sign contract for 2 new C-130J Super Hercules within 2021

 

A C-130J Super Hercules, this example with the US Air Force. Photo c/o Dyess Air Force Base.

The Philippines has set its sights on signing a contract with American defense company Lockheed Martin for two (2) new C-130J Super Hercules tactical transport aircraft by 2021.

During Philippine Defense Secretary Delfin Lorenzana mentioned about this plan during the formal turnover and induction of the first of two upgraded C-130H Hercules tactical transport aircraft to the Philippine Air Force (PAF) on 18 February 2021.

Sec. Lorenzana said that despite getting approval for the acquisition of five (5) new C-130J Super Hercules transport aircraft, funding was only available for two aircraft due to the government’s diversion of funds related to the COVID-19 pandemic.

The PAF originally requested for 5 new C-130J Super Hercules with a proposed budget of around Php37 billion (US$800 million in 2020).

The PAF was also programmed to receive two refurbished C-130H Hercules transport aircraft in 2021, with the first one formerly a US Air Force MC-130W Combat Spear special operation aircraft before it was retired, removed of special equipment, and upgraded for transfer to the PAF.

A second C-130H aircraft is scheduled for delivery to the PAF by mid-2021.

Defense Sec. Lorenzana also mentioned of hoping to sign a contract for additional S-70i Black Hawk combat utility helicopters within the year although not much details were provided.

Previously he mentioned that the government plans to acquire 32 more S-70i Black Hawk helicopters to replace the PAF’s ageing fleet of UH-1 Huey combat utility helicopters.

Sec. Lorenzana highlighted the inadequacy of air transport capabilities of the Armed Forces of the Philippines, with only limited number of helicopters and fixed-wing aircraft available to support the transport of personal protective equipment (PPE), medical supplies, virus testing kits, and stranded passengers across the country, while in support of the AFP’s combat and peacetime operations.

The recent handover of the C-130H Hercules raises the PAF’s C-130 fleet to 5 aircraft, although 2 are in various stages of maintenance work and are not available for use.

[1] Inquirer.net

[2] ABS-CBN News

[3] Philippine Defense Resource

Malaysia receives fleet of new Scrambler Motorcycles

 

New Kawasaki 250cc Scrambler Motorcycles for the Malaysian Army. Photo c/o Defense Studies website.

The Malaysian Army has received 180 new 250cc Scrambler Motorcycles, which were acquired as part of the Malaysian government’s Op Benteng aimed at border control against illegal immigrants.

The handover of the new motorcycles, made by Kawasaki Motors’ Malaysian factory, was led by the Malaysian Army Commander Gen. Tan Sri Datuk Zamrose Mohd Zain at the Malaysian Army’s 92 Central Vehicle Depot on 17 February 2021.

The event began with a briefing by the Director of Kawasaki Motors Sdn Bhd Company, Dato Jefry Lim and a demonstration of Scrambler Motorcycle riding presented by The Army Red Warrior Motorcycle Team.

The vehicle aims to help improve the mobility aspect in the deployment of OP BENTENG at the national border in line with the First Pillar of the 28th Malaysian Army Commander’s Outstanding Order which is Mission Continuity and Vigilance which is the focus on acquisition and maintenance of assets to ensure Malaysian Army combat readiness is at its best for any manage operations.

This ceremony was implemented briefly in compliance with the Standard Operating Procedures (SOP) of the Movement Control Order (PKP) set by the government.

[1] Malaysian Army News

Indonesia raises plans to procure Rafale and F-15EX fighters, several other new assets

 

The F-15EX from Boeing. Photo c/o Air Force Magazine.

The Indonesian National Armed Forces (TNI) plans to bring in new fighter, transport and tanker aircraft for the Indonesian Air Force (TNI-AU) under a plan covering years 2021 to 2024.

According to reports from Indonesian press, a document was released from a TNI meeting showing plans to modernize all its existing fighter aircraft, as well as procuring 36 new Rafale fighters from France, 15 F-15EX Eagle fighters and 15 C-130J Super Hercules transport aircraft from the United States, and 2 new Multi-Role Tanker Transport (MRTT) aircraft.

Also part of their plan is the acquisition of 30 Ground Control Interception (GCI) radars, and 3 Unmanned Aerial Vehicle (UAV) Systems.

The fulfillment of these plans will be dependent on the Indonesian Ministry of Defence (MOD), which will be in charge of approving the plan and obtaining funding from the government.

The TNI-AU has been active in looking for new fighters to replace older models and increase its combat capabilities. It currently has a contract with Russia for the delivery of 11 Sukhoi Su-35, but has not been able to proceed, apparently due to CAATSA issues with the United States.

Defense Minister Prabowo Subianto met with his French counterpart Defense Minister Florence Parly in France on August 2020, and since then, discussions on potential export of French defense equipment to Indonesia, including the Rafale fighter from Dassault Aviation, has been ongoing.

The US Department of Defense was also reported to not having any objections on selling Boeing’s F-15EX Eagle fighter to the Indonesian government, in place of the Lockheed Martin F-35A Lightning II Joint Strike Fighter. The US DOD was also said to have offered the F-16 Block 70/72 Viper and F/A-18E/F Super Hornet to the Indonesian government.

The TNI-AU is also looking for ways to replace its ageing fleet of legacy C-130 Hercules transport and tanker aircraft, with the C-130J Super Hercules said to be the most logical choice, while plans for a new pair of aerial refuelling tanker aircraft has been discussed since 2019.

[1] Republika

[2] Aerotime Hub

Vietnam places order for 12 new L-39NG advanced jet trainers from Czech Republic

 

The L-39NG. Photo c/o Avionlegendaires.net.

The Vietnam People’s Air Force (VPAF) confirmed an order for twelve (12) Aero Vodochody L-39NG advanced jet trainers, which was announced Czech defense exporting agency Omnipol on 15 February 2021.

The deal is said to be the largest export order so far of the L-39NG aircraft, with Senegal being the only export market with 4 firm orders.

The contract includes the delivery of spares parts, logistics support, training of pilots, instructors, mechanics and ground crew, ground-based training equipment and specialized systems, all of which would be delivered to the VPAF between 2023 and 2024.

The L-39NG is the successor to the L-39 Albatross jet trainer, which is considered one of the most successful trainer aircraft in the world. The VPAF is a long time operator of the L-39 Albatross, with 31 units delivered.

The new L-39NG, which was first flown on December 2018, is powered by the Williams International FJ44-4M turbofan engine and is a totally new aircraft despite looking externally similar to its predecessor.

 The L-39NG is also being pitched to other countries including Hungary and Slovenia.

[1] Flight Global

[2] Jane’s 

Malaysia launches prototype of new HMAV 4x4 wheeled armored vehicle

The Mildef HMAV 4x4 wheeled armored vehicle. Photo c/o Lowyat website.

Malaysian defense company Mildef International Technologies (Mildef) has unveiled prototypes of a 4x4 high mobility armored vehicle called the HMAV 4x4, which it intends to market to the Malaysian Army (MA) and export markets.

Mildef aims to have the new vehicle ready for production by the first quarter of 2022.

The 14-ton armored vehicle, which is wheeled 4x4 platform, can be equipped with a 7.62mm or 12.7mm machine guns or automatic grenade launchers via manual operation or using remote controlled weapon station. 

It is powered by a 7.2 liter Caterpillar single turbocharged diesel engine producing 330 horsepower and 1,116 neuton-meter of torque, with a maximum speed of over 110 kilometers per hour.

It features modular platform that can be customized following different specifications by the end user. It also has underbelly protection Stanag 4569 Level 2B and hull protection Stanag 4569 Level 2 to protect its crew. 

The HMAV 4x4 was developed by Mildef with assistance from the Malaysian Defence Agency (STRIDE), and was said to have about 70% local content including the chassis, body and engine system, supporting the Malaysian industry.

Mildef also claimed to have spent around MYR16 million (US$4 million) to develop the HMAV 4x4 in the last 4 years, with the intent of creating an armored vehicle with high local content and reduce reliance on aftersales support from international suppliers.

The company is eyeing an upcoming program from the Malaysian Ministry of Defence (MOD) to replace the Malayasian Army’s fleet of RPZ Condor 4x4 wheeled armored personnel carriers which has been in service since 1981.

It is also aimed to be exported to other Asian and Middle Eastern countries, with Mildef claiming to have confirmed orders of more than 100 units from foreign customers.

[1] New Straits Times

[2] Bernama

[3] Malaysian Defence

Thailand proceeds with upgrade of first 2 Dornier 228 maritime patrol aircraft

Two Dornier 228 maritime patrol aircraft of the RTN are scheduled for upgrade by RUAG MRO International. Photo c/o RUAG MRO International.

The Royal Thai Navy (RTN) has started the process of upgrading two of its seven Dornier 228 maritime patrol aircraft.

Both aircraft have reached a service age of 25 years, with the upgrade works expected to allow another 15-20 years of operational service.

Switzerland-based company RUAG MRO International announced on 05 February 2021 that they were contracted to do the upgrade works on 2 Dornier 228 maritime patrol aircraft.

A 5-man team from RUAG MRO supervised in the dismantling of the aircraft, which were then transported from Thailand to RUAG MRO’s facility in Oberpfaffenhofen, Germany using a chartered Antonov An-124 transport aircraft.

Upgrade works will bring the aircraft to the current Dornier 228 NG standard, which includes the installation of new glass cockpits and modern avionics systems, improvement of the aircraft’s interior, cockpit and cabins.

The program will also see the improvement of its mission modules, including the installation of new 360-degree surface search radar, infrared cameras, and mission management and data link system.

Crew training will also be conducted for the new equipment and capabilities, with RTN personnel scheduled to undergo training in Germany and Thailand.

The RTN has been using the Dornier 228 maritime patrol aircraft for EEZ patrols, maritime intelligence, surveillance and reconnaissance (ISR), and search and rescue (SAR) operations.

[1] RUAG MRO International

[2] Shephard Media

[3] Jane’s

Indonesia in talks with Brazil for potential acquisition of used Tupi-class submarines

 

A Tupi-class submarine of the Brazilian Navy. Photo c/o Wikipedia.

The Indonesian Navy (TNI-AL) is said to be in advanced stage of negotiations with the Brazilian government for the potential acquisition of two Tupi-class (German Type 209/1400) diesel electric submarines from the Brazilian Navy.

The Tupi-class submarines, which have been in service with the Brazilian Navy since the late 1980s,  are in the process of being sold by Brazil as it starts to commission newer submarines to replace them.

Brazil is currently building the Riachuello-class (French Scorpene), while has shown interest in building nuclear-powered submarines in the future.

Indonesia is among a few countries interested in the submarines, with other countries being Argentina and Peru.

The TNI-AL is in the process of expanding its submarine fleet, considering both new and used submarines for its plan. 

It currently has 2 Cakra-class (German-made Type 209/1300) and 3 Nagapasa-class (Korean-made Type 209/1400). These submarines are close in design and capability to the Brazilian Tupi-class.

It also has an existing contract for 3 more Nagapasa-class with South Korean shipbuilder Daewoo Shipbuilding & Marine Engineering. 

The TNI-AL has also received offers for new and used Kilo-class submarines from Russia, and is also looking at new submarines from France based on the Scorpene design.

[1] Poder Naval

Philippines awards contract to Elbit Systems for Iveco VBTP 6x6 armored personnel carriers

The VBTP 6x6 APC from Iveco Defence Vehicles, which will be delivered by Elbit Systems to an Asia-Pacific army believed to be the Philippine Army. Photo c/o Elbit Systems.

Israeli defense company Elbit Systems confirmed in a press release 0n 07 February 2021, that it has been awarded a contract worth US$46 million for the supply of VBTP 6x6 wheeled armored personnel carriers (APC) to an army of an Asia-Pacific country.

As the prime contractor, Elbit Systems will work with Iveco Defence Vehicles to supply the Brazilian-made VBTP APC, and integrated Elbit Systems’ products including turrets, electric drive and stabilisation systems, fire control systems, TORCH-X Battlefield Management Systems (BMS), E-Lynx software defined radio (SDR) systems, gunner and commander sights and life support systems.

While the country was not identified, Philippine defense page MaxDefense Philippines confirmed in October 2020 that the Philippine Army selected Elbit Systems to supply 28 new VBTP-MR Guarani 6x6 wheeled APCs together with Elbit’s TORCH-X BMS and E-Lynx SDRs under a Php2.265 billion (US$46 million) deal.

The VBTP APC, also known as the Guarani in Brazilian Army service, was developed by Iveco Defense Vehicles with the Brazilian Army to replace older armored vehicles. It is powered by an Iveco-FPT 9-liter 281KW bi-fuel common-rail engine, coupled with an automatic gearbox. It is 7.0 meters long, 2.7 meters wide and 2.3 meters tall, and can be transported by C-130 aircraft. 

No information was provided by Elbit Systems with regards to weapon systems, but it appears that it would have a manned turret with 7.62mm or 12.7mm machine guns. 

This is the second major deal signed by Elbit Systems with the Philippines in 2021, after being awarded a contract to supply the Sabrah Light Tank system for the Philippine Army last January 2021. The Sabrah Light Tanks are also equipped with the TORCH-X BMS, E-Lynx SDR, weapons and fire control systems and other equipment from Elbit Systems.

[1] Elbit Systems

[2] MaxDefense Philippines

[3] Philippine Defense Resource

Australia to invest in new locally-made landing crafts and amphibious vehicles

 

A LARC-V amphibious vehicle of the Australian Army. Photo c/o Wikipedia.

The Australian government is planning to invest up to A$800 million (US$613 million) for the acquisition of new amphibious vehicles and landing crafts to improve the amphibious and over-water transport capability of the Australian Army.

The plan, which will be covered under the LAND 8710 Phase 1 Army Littoral Manoeuvre - Light, will improve the Australian Defence Force's amphibious capabilities within Australia's territorial waters and near regions starting 2026.

Preference is given to Australian-made products, as part of its commitments to improve and strengthen the Australian defense industry and to create more jobs for Australians.

It also intends to maximize Australia defense industry involvement through the design, construction and sustainment phases, while also using the project as a potential export opportunity.

The new landing craft would provide an independent shore-to-shore and ship-to-shore capabilities to better manoeuvre and sustain the ADF in littoral and riverine environments.

This will replace the Australian Army's existing LCM-8 landing craft medium vessels, which have been introduced in the mid 1960s, modifying the original LCM-8 design from the United States.

Meanwhile, the new amphibious vehicle will provide shore-to-shore, ship-to-shore, and over-the-shore capabilities with enhanced speed and protection, replacing the Australian Army's LARC-V, another asset designed in the 1950s and also needs replacement soon.

The importance of amphibious capabilities was demonstrated during humanitarian assistance and disaster relief (HADR) operations during bushfires along Australia's eastern coastline in 2019-2020, evacuating Australians from beaches and coastal communities, while also delivering needed supplies.




[1] Australian Department of Defence
[2] Naval News

Malaysia unveils first new locally-made Fast Interceptor Craft

 

Gading Marine's FAC PC31 design, which is the basis for their new FIC for the RMN. Photo c/o Malaysian Flying Herald.

The Royal Malaysian Navy (RMN) has unveiled its first new Fast Interceptor Craft (FIC), built locally by Gading Marine based in Selangor, during a simple ceremony led by the RMN's Deputy Chief on 25 January 2021.

The new boat is still waiting for its remote controlled weapon station (RCWS) with 12.7mm heavy machine gun, and two manually-operated 7.62mm general purpose machine guns, which will be installed once they become available.

The RMN has ordered six (6) new Fast Interceptor Crafts on October 2020, with Gading Marine winning a public tender issued by the Malaysian Ministry of Defence (MOD) in mid 2020. 

The new FICs are expected to be assigned to assist in the ongoing Ops Benteng enforcement against illegal immigrants around the country, and are also expected to gradually replace the RMN's fleet of Swedish-made CB-90 fast assault boats.

The new FIC, which are based on the G2000 FIC 18M design from Gading Marine, will be slightly larger than the CB-90 at 18 meters long and 4.6 meters wide, and will be equipped with an electro-optical tracking system (EOTS), and are powered by two MAN 1550 diesel engines propelling two Hamilton Jet HM 461 water jets.

The RMN plans to operate a total of 18 new FICs, for deployment around the country.




[1] Malaysia Flying Herald
[2] Malaysia Military Times

Philippines approves plan to acquire 15 additional Sikorsky Black Hawk helicopters, push to retire UH-1 Huey fleet

PAF personnel with one of the new Sikorsky S-70i Black Hawk combat utility helicopter. Photo c/o Inquirer.net.

 

The Philippine government has announced on 04 February 2021, that it has approved the acquisition of 15 addition Sikorsky Black Hawk helicopters for the Philippine Air Force (PAF).

According to the virtual press briefing conducted by Philippine Cabinet Secretary Karo Nograles, the Philippine President Rodrigo Duterte has approved the acquisition of 55 new helicopters, but will only push through with 15 units as the the government spending and the country's economy are battered by the COVID-19 pandemic.

There is no mention on the timeline of the procurement plan, or the source and amount of funding to be allocated for the proposal. 

Also, the Philippine government is pushing for the immediate retirement of the PAF's fleet of Bell UH-1 Huey combat utility helicopters, which have been in service for more than 50 years and have been involved in 3 fatal crashes since July 2020.

The PAF has been procuring new combat utility helicopters since 2010, although acquisitions have been in small quantities and has failed to fully replace the PAF's fleet of around 40 ageing UH-1D/H Huey helicopters. These includes 8 units of W-3A Sokol helicopters from PZL Swidnik, 8 Bell 412EP helicopters, and an ongoing delivery of 16 Sikorsky S-70i Black Hawk helicopters from PZL Mielec. 

The PAF received 6 of the 16 S-70i Black Hawks in late 2020, with the remaining 10 helicopters scheduled for delivery within 2021.

These is also a plan to acquire at least 16 Mil Mi-171 medium transport helicopters from Russia, but it appears that the project has been stalled due to the Philippine government's inability to avoid CAATSA related issues.




[1] Inquirer.net
[2] CNN Philippines

Myanmar military takes over national government in coup d’état

 

Military roadblock on a major thoroughfare in Myanmar. Photo c/o Getty Images.

The Myanmar Armed Forces (Tatmadaw) has seized the country’s government in a bloodless coup d’état and declared a state of emergency on 01 February 2021, with Tatmadaw Commander in Chief Senior General Min Aung Hliang taking over as State Leader.

Several high-ranking elected civilian government leaders including State Councillor Aung San Suu Kyi, President Win Myint were detained in early morning raids, hours before a new parliament was set to open.

The general media and press in Myanmar has been shut down and only military-owned stations operation. Internet connection and communications also experienced blackout. Military personnel and armoured vehicles took over control of the capital Naypyidaw, as well as the country’s largest city Yangon and other major cities.

Curfew has also been in effect nationwide from 8:00pm to 6:00am local time.

The Tatmadaw alleged that the recent General Elections held on November 2020 wherein Ms. Suu Kyi’s National League for Democracy (NLD) Party won by a landslide, was marred by election fraud. The NLD party won 83% of the parliament’s positions, while Tatmadaw-backed Union Solidarity and Development Party won only 7%.

Senior Gen. Min Aung Hliang is expected to lead the country for the entire year, and has used the country’s 2008 Constitution as basis for its takeover. The new government has removed 24 ministers from their positions and announcing the appointment of 11 new ministers as replacements.

The country has a long experience of being under military leadership, with reforms being made to allow civilian democratic rule only starting years ago. 

[1] CNN

[2] BBC News

[3] ABC News

Philippines taps Israel to supply Shaldag Mk. V fast attack crafts

  

The Shaldag Mk. V fast attack craft. Photo c/o Israel Shipyards.

The Philippines’ Department of National Defense (DND) has released notices of award for the Fast Attack Interdiction Craft project of the Philippine Navy (PN) to two Israeli companies, involving the acquisition of the Shaldag Mk. V fast attack craft.

The project’s Lot 1 worth Php6.161 billion (US$127.9 million) was awarded to Israel Shipyards Ltd. to supply 9 Shaldag Mk. V fast attack crafts for the PN. 

The deal also includes for Israel Shipyards assisting in upgrading the PN’s naval shipyard to prepare it to have the capacity for the construction of boats and small ships and improve existing naval assets.

Another award covering the project’s Lot 2, was awarded to Rafael Advanced Systems Ltd. with a value of Php3.82 billion (US$79.38 million), for the supply of the Typhoon medium calibre and Mini Typhoon small calibre remote control weapon stations (RCWS), Typhoon MLS missile launchers, and Spike NLOS surface-to-surface missiles.

The Shaldag Mk. V has a length of 32.7 meters, a beam of 6.2 meters, displaces at around 95 tons, and is powered by diesel engines capable of providing a maximum speed of above 40 knots, and a range of 1,000 nautical miles at 12 knots.

The Fast Attack Interdicition Craft project was first raised in early 2019 with a budget of Php10 billion, which will replace the service’s existing Tomas Batilo-class fast attack crafts. But the project’s implementation was delayed by a year due to COVID 19 pandemic issues.

These Tomas Batilo-class are former Chamsuri-class FACs transferred from South Korea and have been in service since the late 1970s with  the Republic of Korea Navy (ROKN), before entering service with the PN in the early 1990s.

The PN now only operates two Tomas Batilo-class FACs with the Littoral Combat Force, with six other retired over the years and used as spare parts hulk for the remaining units.

[1] Philippines Department of National Defense

[2] MaxDefense Philippines

[3] Philippine Defense Resource