To strengthen the country’s territorial defense capabilities, BRP
Gregorio del Pilar and BRP Ramon Alcaraz, two
most modern warships of the Navy will be upgraded with
sensors and cannons. Philippine Navy service are programmed for upgrades to
restore the ships to their original US Coast Guard configurations.
“Both vessels are programmed for upgrades in terms of sensors and
firepower to revive their original capabilities”, Navy public affairs office
chief Lt. Cmdr. Marineth Domingo in a message to the PNA revealed.
Per review, both ships are members of the 11-ship Hamilton class cutters
designed and built for the US Coast Guard for heavy weather patrolling during
the 1960s.
These ships are the largest in the US Coast Guard service and armed with
the 76mm Oto Melara automatic cannon and closed-in-weapon systems.
Navy ships would be equipped with 25 mm Bushmaster auto cannons that
would complement their 76 mm Oto Melara main guns. “It will allow the vessel to
handle targets coming fast and those that are too close for the ship's 76 mm to
engage,” Domingo added.
But Domingo said specifics for the upgrades are not yet out as it
defends on the availability of funds.
“PF-15 (BRP Gregorio Del Pilar) has the priority in getting these
weapons.These will be fitted before the end of the year. After this, the BRP
Ramon Alcaraz (PF-16), will be fitted next,” she added.
BRP
Gregorio Del Pilar is now undergoing minor maintenance at her Subic Bay
Freeport in Zambales.
