DND to buy 3 new multi-purpose attack craft

MANILA, Philippines - The Department of National Defense is acquiring three more Multipurpose Attack Craft (MPAC) with missile launch capabilities to further enhance the Philippine Navy’s maritime and territorial operations, the DND said yesterday.

The DND is now accepting qualified bidders for the acquisition of the sea vessels worth P270 million.

Defense Undersecretary Fernando Manalo, chairman of the DND Special Bids and Awards Committee, said the winning bidder must be able to deliver the MPAC within 540 calendar days from the opening of the Letter of Credit.

Once delivered, a separate contract will be given to the winning supplier for the installation of remote weapons and missile launch system.

The Philippine Navy is heavily dependent on its two frigates – BRP Gregorio del Pilar and BRP Ramon Alcaraz – and three Peacock-class gunboats in patrolling the country’s territorial waters, especially the West Philippine Sea.

A senior Navy officer said the acquisition of additional MPACs will boost its maritime capabilities.

The DND had earlier announced the procurement of lead-in fighter jets from South Korea amounting to P18.9 billion.