Philippine Navy Receives 2 Israeli-Made Missile Boats

Jerusalem, 23 September, 2024 (TPS) -- MANILA September 23, 2024 (PNA) – The Philippine Fleet on Monday announced that two more fast attack interdiction craft (FAIC), also known as the Acero-class patrol vessels, were delivered to the country.

In a message to reporters, fleet spokesperson Lt. Giovanni Badidles said the two FAICs were delivered at the Pier 15 of the Manila South Harbor on Sept. 17.

“These two FAICs, to be designated with bow numbers PG-908 and PG-909, will be the seventh and the eighth fast boats under the Acero-class patrol vessels,” PF spokesperson Lt. Giovanni Badidles said in a message to reporters.

Once commissioned into service, the number of FAICs in the Philippine Navy (PN) will rise to eight, leaving only one to be delivered by contractor Israeli Shipyards Ltd.

“Similar with their predecessors, the newly delivered platforms are designed for high-speed operations, featuring advanced missile systems and sophisticated onboard technology, which enhances the [Philippine Navy’s] capability to conduct rapid and effective maritime interdiction operations,” Badidles said.

He also said the arrival of these vessels underscores the Navy’s continued modernization and represents a crucial step toward bolstering Manila’s Self-Reliant Defense Posture (SRDP) program.