SUMMARY
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MANILA, Philippines – The US State Department has approved the sale of two air search radars for its former US Coast Guard ships acquired by the Philippine Navy to patrol the country’s vast waters.
The package includes the sale of two AN/SPSS-77 Sea Giraffe 3D Air Search Radars, related equipment, support, and training.
It will cost the Philippine government a total of $25 million (P1.25 billion) if it pursues the acquisition that was requested under the administration of President Benigno Aquino III.
The US Defense Security Cooperation Agency (DSCA) notified the US Congress on the possible sale on Monday, December 12.
The air search radars will enhance the Philippine Navy’s maritime domain awareness, enabling it to detect and track air contacts.
“The radars will be installed on two Hamilton-class cutters acquired through the Excess Defense Articles (EDA) program,” reads a DSCA press release regarding the possible sale.
Inter-operability
The request was made when the Philippines had acquired two Hamilton-class cutters – BRP Gregorio Del Pilar and BRP Ramon Alcaraz. The 3rd acquisition of the same class, BRP Andres Bonifacio, arrived in the Philippines last week.
Increasing the Philippine Navy’s capabilities will support regional stability and thus, US national interests, DSCA said.
The US wants to maintain freedom of navigation in the South China Sea, a multibillion dollar international trade route where its cargoes pass through. (READ: Why the US will fight for ‘freedom of navigation’ in the South China Sea)
US contractor VSE and Saab will provide the installation and support, according to the DSCA statement.
The DSCA said the sale will improve interoperability between the two navies.
“This sale is consistent with US regional objectives and will further enhance interoperability with the US Navy, build upon a longstanding cooperative effort with the United States, and provide an enhanced capability with a valued partner in a geographic region of critical importance to the US government,” it said. – Carmela Fonbuena/Rappler.com
*$1 = P50
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