Leading French naval defense company sets up office in Manila
By Roy Mabasa
A four-century-old French company specializing in defense systems has opened its office in Manila signifying the first step of its long-term commitment of cooperation and partnership in developing naval capabilities for the Philippines.
Naval Group, a world leader in naval defense and a reputable naval systems provider and integrator, has partnered with more than 50 navies around the world.
With the launch of its Manila office, the Naval Group said it aims to bring to the Philippines its breadth of experience and unrivaled technical expertise in ships and submarines with combat systems and all critical equipment and services necessary to engage naval power in a theatre of operations.
“We are the only provider with previous experience in helping a country develop a submarine force from scratch and we stand ready to assist the Philippines Navy by providing the submarines but also setting up the training, facilities and supply chain required to operate a fully operational submarine fleet,” Alain Guillou, Naval Group Senior Executive Vice President Development, said in a statement.
Naval Group boasts of its extensive portfolio to address the entire range of Filipino naval needs from the development of the naval forces to the constitution of a world-class submarine force.
It has demonstrated in many countries such as Malaysia, India, and Australia its capability to support the military capabilities and economic growth of its partners.
The French company said their representative office in Manila would also enable them to identify synergies and partners to support the needs of the Philippine Navy.
Anne Clausard, Naval Group’s country head, said, “The creation of the submarine force is a fantastic opportunity for us to develop long term partnerships with the local industry where there will be transferring of knowledge and technology that will also create hundreds of jobs for the program and beyond.”
Under the country's modernization program, the Armed Forces of the Philippines is eyeing the creation of a submarine force to protect the nation’s maritime sovereignty and interests.