Follow Philippines Investment Immigration and stay updated on Philippines military news: Philippine Navy spokesperson Major Gregory Fabic recently stated that the Philippine Navy plans to further upgrade two "Hamilton"-class patrol ships retired from the United States Coast Guard. These two warships are referred to as patrol frigates by the Philippine Navy.
According to reports, the upgrade contract is expected to be tendered in 2014, with a focus on upgrading navigation, propulsion, communication, surveillance, and weapon systems. According to Jane's Information Group, the Philippine Navy is currently also seeking to build anti-submarine warfare capabilities for the aforementioned warships and equip them with ship-to-ship missiles, although funding constraints are likely to be the deciding factor in whether this upgrade plan can be fully implemented.
Major Fabic stated that the upgrade plan will enhance the Philippine Navy's "ability to defend and protect resources within and around the country's exclusive economic zone." Due to territorial disputes between the Philippines and China, the situation in these waters has remained tense in recent years.
This frigate procurement program, which will cost $410 million, was launched in October, and the first round of bidding concluded on December 4. It is reported that four companies have qualified for the second round of bidding: Navantia of Spain, as well as South Korea's STX Offshore & Shipbuilding, Daewoo Shipbuilding & Marine Engineering, and Hyundai Heavy Industries.
