French defense manufacturer Naval Group on Wednesday announced that it has outfitted anti-torpedo reaction modules to the Philippine Navy’s (PN) two Jose Rizal-class missile frigates.
The company said on August 31, its Contralto anti-torpedo reaction module was successfully installed into the C-Guard decoy launching system of the PN’s two Jose Rizal class frigates.
“This important milestone is part of the contract signed in December 2021 to provide an anti-torpedo defense system based on Naval Group’s Canto/Contralto solutions,” it added in a statement.
Under this contract, Naval Group would supply these defensive systems to the BRP Jose Rizal (FF-150) and BRP Antonio Luna (FF-151). The commissioning of the anti-submarine warfare and Contralto anti-torpedo reaction modules completes the armament of the two Jose Rizal-class frigates.
US aircraft manufacturer Sikorsky meanwhile said it has signed an international reseller agreement with Asian Aerospace Corporation for it to become the sole original equipment manufacturer (OEM)-authorized reseller in the Philippines of Sikorsky spare parts and repair services for the “Black Hawk” helicopter family of products, which is now in service in the country.
The Philippine Air Force (PAF) is currently operating 15 units of the Polish-made S-70i “Black Hawk” combat utility helicopters with another 32 helicopters expected to be delivered within the next three years.
Built at Lockheed Martin’s PZL Mielec facility in Poland, the highly sought “Black Hawk” helicopter has earned its standing as the trusted utility aircraft for operators worldwide, featuring unmatched multi-mission versatility and military-grade airworthiness capable of operating in extreme weather conditions, day or night.
Once the deliveries are completed, the PAF will be the largest operator of the S-70i in the world.
The PAF contract for the additional 32 S-70i units is worth around P32 billion and was signed in February 2022.
This includes an integrated logistics support and training package for pilots and maintenance crew.