Philippines to build three naval MPACs

A total of three Multi-Purpose Assault Craft (MPACs) will be built for the Philippines Navy in the country, in accordance with the navy's approved technical specifications. The plan was announced by the armed forces of the Philippines on 14 March.

The MPACs will serve as a platform for a remote weapons system and a missile launch system, with the Department of National Defense having allocated around $6.073 million towards their acquisition.

Single-stage open competitive bidding will open on April 6 2015, and the winning bidder will be required to deliver the vessels in 365 days after receiving the Notice to Proceed.

Rear Admiral Caesar Taccad, navy vice-commander, said: '[The vessels] will be armed with stabilised weapon system with fire control complemented with a short to medium range missile system.'

The missile launch system will be procured in a separate acquisition project.

The MPACs must be capable of operating at sea state five, with 2.5-4m of waves or rough sea conditions, without systems degradation.

The navy currently operates six MPACs built, three of which were built in Taiwan and three were built by Philippine shipbuilder Propmech Corporation.