The Philippine Navy (PN) now has the capability to detect, locate and hunt submarines with the arrival of its two AugustaWestand (now Leonardo) AW-159 "Wildcat" helicopters Tuesday. This was bared by Navy flag-officer-in-command, Vice Admiral Robert Empedrad, on the sidelines of the send-off ceremonies for the military, police and government contingents tasked to secure the May 13 mid-term elections in Camp Aguinaldo, Quezon City.
"These helicopters will give the PN the capability to detect and locate submarines due to its sonar capabilities," he said in Filipino.
Empedrad said this is a big leap for the PN, considering that in the past, the Navy does not have the means to detect subsurface threats.
The PN chief said that the sonar capabilities of the AW-159 will be further augmented by the proposed upgrades of the three Del Pilar-class offshore patrol vessels, which include the installation of sonar equipment.
Empedrad said the helicopters will be placed in Navy service shortly after the blessing and commissioning ceremonies in Sangley Point, Cavite this coming May 27, which coincides with the PN's 121st founding anniversary.
These helicopters are to be based on the two missile-armed frigates Hyundai Heavy Industries is constructing in South Korea. These aircraft were acquired for PHP5.4 billion including its munition, mission essential equipment and integrated logistic support.
The AW-159 (previously called the Future Lynx and Lynx Wildcat) is an improved version of the Westland Super Lynx military helicopter.
Source : pna.gov.ph
Music :
COPYRIGHT:
Copyright disclaimer under section 107 of the copyright act 1976, allowance is made for 'fair use' for purposes such as criticism, comment, news reporting, teaching, research. Fair use is a use permitted by copyright statue that might otherwise be infriging. Nonprofit, educational or personal use tips the balance in favor of fair use.
#PhilippineNavy #PhilippineHelicopter #AW159WildcatHelicopters
0 Comments