Two proposed anti-submarine (ASW) helicopters, which will be operated by the Philippine Navy (PN), is included in the 33 projects given the green light with the signing of the Revised Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) Modernization Law last July.This was disclosed Monday by Department of National Defense (DND) Undersecretary for Finance, Modernization, Installation and Munitions Fernando Manalo in a message to the PNA.President Benigno S. Aquino III signed the law last July 22, he added.
However, Manalo said bidding for the two ASW helicopters will go the bidding stage once the Php18-billion frigate program gains momentum.These ASW assets will be based on the two proposed frigates which are capable of firing anti-air, anti-surface, and anti-submarine missiles and weapons.
The ASW helicopters are worth Php5.4 billion.Also included in the 33 projects are the missile-firing frigates, long-range patrol aircraft, surveillance radars and close-air support aircraft program, which will now move their next respective bidding phase.Manalo earlier said that these projects "were held in abeyance" last May pending the signing of Revised AFP Modernization Law.
The DND is seeking Php158.8 billion budget for 2016.This can be broken down into Php63.5 billion for territorial defense, security and stability; Php1.5 billion for humanitarian assistance and disaster relief; Php667 million for international engagements and peace support missions and Php93.1 billion for force level support and training.
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