The Philippine Navy (PN) has launched the first ever in-country assembled fast attack interdiction craft-missile (FAIC-M) at the Naval Shipyard in Cavite City on Tuesday. Nov. 12.
Vice Adm. Toribio Adaci Jr., PN flag officer in command, led the launching of patrol gunboat BRP Albert Majini (PG909).
“This milestone represents our progress in strengthening national security and our commitment to advancing the Self-Reliant Defense Posture (SRDP) program, particularly in shipbuilding,” Adaci said.
According to the navy, BRP Albert Majini has quick intercept capabilities and a top speed of 40 knots which is “ideal for addressing current and emerging security threats.”
BRP Albert Majini (PG909) is part of the Acero-class patrol gunboat fleet in the navy’s Littoral Combat Force.
The Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) bought a total of nine units of FAIC-Ms from Israeli Shipyards Limited for P10 billion under the second horizon of the military’s revised modernization program.
Six units were already delivered and are currently in active service: BRP Nestor Acero (PG901), BRP Lolinato To-Ong (PG902), BRP Gener Tinangag (PG903), BRP Domingo Deluana (PG905), BRP Herminigildo Yurong (PG906), and BRP Laurence Narag (PG907).
The deal also requires a transfer of technology to enhance the PN’s shipbuilding capabilities, hence, the assembly of BRP Albert Majini.
Adaci said the acquisition of the FAIC-M aims to reinforce the country’s littoral and coastal defense and allows the PN to effectively perform its mission of safeguarding the country’s maritime interests.
“This effort not only empowers our armed forces but also boosts our industries to further innovation and strengthen our maritime nation,” he noted.
The event was graced by Department of National Defense Undersecretary Salvador Melchor B. Mison Jr., and Ambassador of Israel to the Philippines Ilan Fluss, Israel Shipyard Ltd. marketing director Noam Katsav, and other ranking military and defense officials.