Philippine Coast Guard Secures Major Patrol Craft Deal
The Philippine Coast Guard has finalized a significant contract worth P25.8 billion for the acquisition of 40 units of 35-meter fast patrol craft. This agreement marks the largest single purchase in the agency’s modernization efforts. The four-word keyphrase, “fast patrol craft acquisition,” highlights the main focus of this development.
The deal was signed on May 22 through a government-to-government financing arrangement between the Philippines and France. Local officials and French representatives confirmed that this partnership is backed by a nine-year Integrated Logistics Support plan. This plan aims to ensure the patrol boats remain operational and well-maintained over the long term.
Expanding Maritime Security and Capabilities
These fast patrol craft acquisition efforts are designed to strengthen maritime security, especially in the West Philippine Sea. According to sources familiar with the matter, the new vessels will boost the Coast Guard’s ability to monitor territorial waters amid ongoing tensions. The boats will also support a range of missions addressing complex maritime challenges such as illegal fishing, smuggling, piracy, and maritime terrorism.
The Commandant of the Coast Guard emphasized, “Acquiring these assets will modernize the PCG Fleet, capacitating us to deploy mission-capable and high-speed vessels to further enhance maritime domain awareness and expand Coast Guard presence.” The high-speed, multi-role vessels will serve as rapid deployment platforms for rescue, relief, and emergency responses during natural disasters and maritime incidents, thereby improving overall response times and operational efficiency.
Boosting Local Shipbuilding and Job Creation
Under the contract, half of the patrol boats will be constructed in France, while the remaining 20 units will be built domestically in the Philippines. This arrangement supports the country’s goal of achieving self-reliance in naval shipbuilding. Experts and community leaders have noted that this initiative will strengthen the domestic maritime industry, generate employment opportunities, and facilitate technology transfer.
By investing in local production, the government aims to build a sustainable shipbuilding sector that can support future maritime security needs. The collaboration with a French shipbuilder also brings advanced technology and expertise, which will benefit the country’s naval capabilities in the long run.
For more news and updates on fast patrol craft acquisition, visit Filipinokami.com.