Philippines plans further upgrades to ex-US Coast Guard cutters

The BRP Ramon Alcaraz (PF 16), the newest vessel of the Philippine navy, leaves the Federal Law Enforcement Training Center, Charleston, S.C., following simple ceremonies attended by members of the Filipino community on June 10, 2013. Philippine Embassy photo by Elmer G. Cato

The Philippine Navy (PN) is planning further upgrades for its two ex-US Coast Guard Hamilton-class cutters, PN spokesman Lieutenant Commander Gregory Fabic told IHS Jane's on 17 December.

Contracts to modernise the two vessels, which are described by the PN as patrol frigates, are expected to be tendered next year and will feature upgrades for navigation, propulsion, communication, surveillance, and weapons systems.

IHS Jane's understands that the PN is also seeking to equip the vessels with an anti-submarine warfare capability and surface-to-surface missiles, although funding restrictions are likely to determine the full extent of the modernisation programme.

Lt Cdr Fabic said the planned upgrade will enhance the PN's capability to protect and secure its assets in and around the country's exclusive economic zone, in which tension has remained high in recent years due to territorial disputes between the Philippines and China.

Jane's