24.05.2011
Following other Southeast Asian countries, Philippines are about to implement a submarine procurement project.
Naval experts hold negotiations with western manufacturers in order to estimate feasibility of this project, reported
ABS-CBNNews referring to representative of Philippines Navy Lt. Rommel Rodriguez.
The purpose of procurement is to provide covert patrolling of Philippines' territorial waters and to oppose potential enemy's submarine force.
The study is held for National Defense Review 2020 to determine Navy's demands, consider different variants of arms export and personnel training, and find financing sources.
Philippines Navy is about to acquire first submarine no later than 2020 which will, however, depend on political and economical situation in the country. According to R. Rodriguez, overall cost of Philippines' submarine procurement program is estimated as $1 bln.
Results of the study will be presented to the Navy command, and then – to defense ministry.
