By Priam Nepomuceno | Philippine News Agency
The Philippine Navy has launched the first “in-country” assembled fast attack interdiction craft-missile (FAIC-M) at the naval shipyard in Cavite City.
Navy chief Vice Admiral Toribio Adaci Jr. said the launching of the BRP Albert Majini (PG-909) on Nov. 12 shows the renewed focus on revitalizing shipbuilding capabilities in the country.
“This milestone represents our progress in strengthening national security and our commitment to advancing the Self-Reliant Defense Posture (SRDP) program, particularly in shipbuilding,” Adaci said.
The launching is a ceremony and a nautical tradition where the ship’s hull is transferred to the water for the first time.
Present in the launching ceremonies were Defense Undersecretary Salvador Melchor Mison Jr., Ambassador of Israel to the Philippines Ilan Fluss and other ranking military and naval officials.
The newly launched FAIC-M is part of the Acero-class patrol gunboat fleet in the Navy’s Littoral Combat Force, of which six are now in service.
The contracted shipbuilder, Israeli Shipyards Limited, is required to not only deliver nine FAIC-Ms, but also to transfer technology to allow the Navy to beef up its shipbuilding capabilities.
These ships have quick intercept capabilities and a top speed of 40 knots ideal for addressing current and emerging security threats.
The acquisition of the FAIC-M aims to reinforce the country’s littoral and coastal defense and allows the PN to effectively perform its mission of safeguarding the country’s maritime interests.
“This effort not only empowers our armed forces but also boosts our industries to further innovation and strengthen our maritime nation,” Adaci said.