Fernando Manalo, DND undersecretary for finance, munitions, installation and materiel, said recently that acquiring such vessels from foreign countries will ultimately be costlier than buying new ships.
Given this, Italian-made "Maestrale" frigates are no longer being considered for possible acquisition by the Philippines. "It’s no longer being evaluated," Manalo said.
The "Maestrale" was earlier touted by the DND as the next ships to be acquired for the Navy due to its credible missile and anti-submarine capabilities.
Five other countries have expressed intentions to sell modern frigates and offshore patrol vessels to the badly equipped Philippine navy: the United States, Israel, Croatia, South Korea and Australia. All vessels being offered by these nations are brand new.
The Philippines is in the market for two modern and powerful frigates in order to enhance its maritime protection capabilities, especially in the West Philippine Sea, where territorial disputes with China have arisen.-Interaksyon (February 23, 2013 2:14PM)
1 comment:
I agree. It is more wise and cost saving to buy a new warship than buying old warship which will be besets with engine,electronic, electrical and navigation equipment problems. Where as a brand new warships has new equipment, engines, weaponry and armaments plus no head ache on operation since everything is brand new. A warship designed 10 years ago is obsolete on today's newly designed warships. But if the Philippine government still waiting for a 15 year budget plan to procure this new warships is going to be costly and dangerous. The time is NOW TO PROCURE THIS WARSHIPS. Use a government to government Military Loan if possible to acquire this warships in order to confront and guard Philippine territories which are slowly grabbed by China.
Post a Comment