The Philippine Navy has commissioned two new fast-attack interdictor craft missile (FAIC-M) vessels.
Developed by Israel Shipyards, the FAIC-Ms are equipped with a Rafael-built naval combat suite that includes internal and external communication systems, a tactical data link, and a combat management system.
Each vessel carries Typhoon and Mini-Typhoon remote operating weapon systems and naval Spike missiles as main armaments.
The FAIC-Ms were delivered with complete support, training, and maintenance services.
“We congratulate the Philippine Navy for commissioning its first two FAIC-M / SHALDAG MK5 vessels,” Rafael Naval Warfare Systems Directorate Head and Vice President Ran Tavor said.
“This contract serves as another example of RAFAEL’s ability to integrate the most advanced defense solutions on a variety of platforms.”
Establishing ‘Fortified Defense’
The commissioning follows a christening ceremony held in Manila in September. The vessels were named RP Nestor Acero (PG-901) and BRP Lolinato To-Ong (PG-902).
Both FAIC-Ms underwent sea trials in June, where their Typhoon/Mini-Typhoon weapons were demonstrated.
“We are proud of what this achievement means not only for RAFAEL, but for the Philippine Navy and their enhanced naval superiority capabilities,” Tavor expressed.
“These new naval assets will provide our Philippine partners with the capabilities to deal with a variety of threats and establish a fortified defense in the naval arena.”
Philippine Navy’s Future FAIC-M Fleet
The Philippine Navy has invested 10 billion Philippine pesos ($181 million) to acquire eight FAIC-Ms.
Half of the fleet will be armed with beyond-line-of-sight missile systems, while the other half will have automatic light cannons and machine guns.
The program supports the ongoing modernization of the Philippine Armed Forces and replacement of the navy’s aging medium-sized patrol boats.
Once completed, the FAIC-Ms will be deployed “to patrol and protect” littoral territories in the Philippines.