Report: Philippine Order and Delivery of Acero-Class Fast Attack Interdiction Crafts (FAICs) for WPS

Date: October 30, 2024

Source: WPS.News (This report), Public Sources, Social Media, OSINT

Introduction

We looked into this story in August of 2023. This is the current follow up.

Acero-class Fast Attack Interdiction Crafts for the Philippine Navy

The Acero-class Fast Attack Interdiction Crafts (FAICs) are a series of vessels being acquired by the Philippine Navy to bolster its maritime interdiction capabilities. The program involves the construction of a total of nine Acero-class FAICs, with two already delivered and another two expected soon.

Delivery and Capabilities (based on militaryleak.com):

• The Philippine Navy recently acquired two new Acero-class FAICs, named PG-908 and PG-909.
• These vessels are equipped with state-of-the-art missile systems and advanced technology.
• The addition of these FAICs will enhance the Navy’s capacity to conduct swift and effective maritime interdiction operations.

Upgrade and Specifications (based on pna.gov.ph and asiapacificdefensejournal.com):

• The Acero class is based on the Shaldag Mk. V fast patrol boat design.
• The first two ships, BRP Nestor Acero (PG-901) and BRP Lolinato To-ong (PG-902), were delivered on September 6, 2022.
• These ships were built by Israel Shipyards in Haifa, Israel.
• An upgrade to the battle net system was recently completed on the BRP Nestor Acero, significantly improving its operational capabilities.
• Seven more Acero-class FAICs are planned, with at least two vessels to be constructed locally by the Philippine Navy’s Naval Yard.

Summary:

The Acero-class FAIC program signifies the Philippine Navy’s modernization efforts to strengthen its presence and capabilities in the West Philippine Sea (WPS). The Acero-class vessels provide a significant boost to the Navy’s maritime interdiction operations, particularly with their advanced weaponry and technology. The local construction of some FAICs also contributes to the development of the domestic shipbuilding industry.

Note: The information gathered from the provided web sources is limited. Further investigation using social media, public records, and official government statements could provide a more comprehensive picture of the Acero-class FAIC program, including details on the specific missile systems and technological advancements incorporated into these vessels. Additionally, insights into the training of Filipino personnel to operate and maintain these FAICs could be valuable.