Navy commissions 2 new fast attack interdiction vessels

The Philippine Navy on Tuesday commissioned two brand new missile capable Shaldag Mk V fast attack interdiction craft.

These craft named as PG902, BRP Lolinato To-ong and PG901, BRP Nestor Acero were commissioned in a christening ceremony at the Naval Station Jose Andrada in Roxas Boulevard, Manila.

Navy chief Vice Admiral Adeluis Bordado said the new assets were procured from Israel Shipyards Ltd.

“This is just the first tranche because we have seven more coming of these Shaldag Mk V high speed vessels we have acquired through our Revised AFP Modernization Program,” he said.

According to him, the new fast attack craft interdiction missile is designed to enhance the Navy's capability in addressing threats and protecting the maritime interest of the country.

Armed Forces chief Lieutenant General Bartolome Vicente Bacarro, who served as the event’s keynote speaker, said the new assets shall help in securing the borders against foreign intrusions.

They would also provide naval warfare support to ground troops during the conduct of joint operations, he added.

“The procurement of these naval warfare assets through the government to government or ‘G-to G’ mode between the Philippines and Israel demonstrates our robust diplomatic and defense relationship with other countries grounded with our shared goal of ensuring security, ensuring stability within our countries and common areas of interest,” Bacarro said. — Joviland Rita/RSJ, GMA News