3 Multi-Purpose Attack Crafts (MPAC) due to arrive before 2017

MPAC-MK II's docked at Cebu Port-- Photo from Mckoyzzz of PDFF

MANILA, Philippines-- Four of six MPACs deployed in Zamboanga coastlines together with 24 other PN floating assets battling MNLF extremist; will soon have to welcome their three more sisters come 2017.

see also: Fast Patrol Gunboats, MPACs and NAVSOG Elite Teams to reinforce troops in Zamboanga

PH Navy Seal (NAVSOG) on MPAC-- Photo from PN Facebook page

"The MPACs, as proven in the ongoing Zamboanga City operations, are ideal craft for coastal patrol and defense work due to high speed and maneuverability," PN spokesperson Lt. Cmdr. Gregory Fabic said.

The Navy is already in the 1st stage of procurement process for the said attack crafts worth 90 million each.

MPAC is 16.5 meters long, 4.76 meters wide and a draft of one meter. It's hull is made from high grade aluminum and has a range of 300 nautical miles. It can cruise to a top speed of 45 knots, can stop abruptly and hit top speed in minutes after stopping.

MPAC with Media on-board in Cebu-- Photo from PN Facebook page

 "(Acquisition of three MPACs) is part of the PN's medium term capability upgrade program. Three MPACs (are scheduled) to be acquired within 2013 to 2017," Fabic added

The MPAC is capable of operating in territorial waters up to "Sea State 3" (slight waves) without any system degradation and can cruise in shallow waters like a boss. It is armed with one .50 caliber and two 7.62mm machine guns and can carry 16 fully-equipped Marines/NAVSOG or two tons of cargo.

Three of the MPACs, the Mark 1, were sourced from Taiwan through a Joint Venture Agreement between a Taiwanese Ship Design Center and Shipyard and a Philippine Marine System Integrator, PROPMECH Corporation. The remaining three 3 units, Mk II, were supplied by the same Philippine Systems Integrator who ensured transfer of knowledge and system skills in the production of the Mk II boats to the Philippines. The same SI invested heavily in setting up the production facility for the MK II under Safe Hull Marine Shipyard, a Business Entity of PROPMECH Corporation, in keeping with good faith for providing the Philippine Navy with its special combat boat requirement.

Read also: Philippine Navy's Multi-Purpose Attack Craft or MPAC led the rescue efforts in Cebu

With Zambo Times