Philippines to build three naval MPACs
A total of three Multi-Purpose Assault Craft (MPACs) will be built for the Philippines Navy in the country, in accordance with the navy's approved technical specifications. The plan was announced by the armed forces of the Philippines on 14 March.
The MPACs will serve as a platform for a remote weapons system and a missile launch system, with the Department of National Defense having allocated around $6.073 million towards their acquisition.
Single-stage open competitive bidding will open on April 6 2015, and the winning bidder will be required to deliver the vessels in 365 days after receiving the Notice to Proceed.
Rear Admiral Caesar Taccad, navy vice-commander, said: '[The vessels] will be armed with stabilised weapon system with fire control complemented with a short to medium range missile system.'
The missile launch system will be procured in a separate acquisition project.
The MPACs must be capable of operating at sea state five, with 2.5-4m of waves or rough sea conditions, without systems degradation.
The navy currently operates six MPACs built, three of which were built in Taiwan and three were built by Philippine shipbuilder Propmech Corporation.
More from Naval Warfare
-
![US Navy seeks suppliers to upgrade the MK 41 VLS]()
US Navy seeks suppliers to upgrade the MK 41 VLS
The US Navy has been preparing to award a contract for the refurbishment of MK 41 VLS on board USN vessels and other military type ships.
-
![Philippine Navy looks to old and new vessels to beef up its fleet]()
Philippine Navy looks to old and new vessels to beef up its fleet
The Philippines has turned to regional neighbours Japan and South Korea in a effort to boost its naval fleet with new and ex-Japanese ships. The bonds between the countries is an acknowledgment of the rising power of China and the continued manoeuvres of the Asian giant throughout the region.
-
![US Navy prepares the next phase of the Arleigh Burke-class modernisation]()
US Navy prepares the next phase of the Arleigh Burke-class modernisation
The NAVSEA is carrying out market research and will conduct industry days in August to identify potential providers for the DDG MOD 2.0 stage.
-
![Pentagon requests industry support to address issues with low-cost undersea effectors]()
Pentagon requests industry support to address issues with low-cost undersea effectors
The US Pentagon Defence Innovation Unit (DIU) will award OTAs for small and medium affordable uncrewed underwater vehicles. Companies can submit their solution until 24 July.
