The Philippines Navy’s BRP Jose Rizal (FF-150) frigate has completed a deck landing qualification (DLQ) test for landing and receiving the AW-159 Wildcat helicopter.
The assessment was conducted by frigate Team FF-150 to “further test and improve existing procedures, check connectivity, system integration, and leveling of officers, pilots, sailors, and aircrew on flight operations.”
Prior to the DLQ, the ship crew and chopper squadron conducted practice sessions with the flight deck equipment to ensure success and the safety of the team.
The test was run safely and successfully by both the vessel and aircraft crews.
“This activity marks the beginning of warfare interoperability operations between our air and surface assets which compliments the detection and engagement capability of both units,” stated the Philippine Navy on the frigate’s official social media account.
The BRP Jose Rizal
South Korean shipyard Hyundai Heavy Equipment constructed the BRP Jose Rizal. It was launched in 2019 and commissioned in 2020.
The 107-meter (351-foot) vessel is equipped with anti-air, anti-surface, anti-submarine, and electronic warfare capabilities.
A 16 billion-Philippine-peso ($287 million) contract was signed for the construction of the ship, as well as the second and final of the class, the BRP Antonio Luna.
The AW-159 Wildcat
The navy acquired two Wildcats for 5.4 billion Philippine pesos ($97 million), including related equipment, munitions, and logistical support. AugustaWestland delivered the helicopters in May 2019 and they were commissioned in June.
The Wildcats were intended to complement the anti-submarine warfare capabilities of Jose Rizal-class frigates due to their capacity to carry a wide range of weaponry and other ordnance specialized for tracking and targeting undersea vehicles.
