QinetiQ signs agreement to manage £10.4m upgrade contract for the Philippine Navy

QinetiQ, Europe's leading science and technology solutions provider, has received formal go ahead for a contract for what will be the first phase of a multi-million pound contract to upgrade three Jacinto Class patrol vessels (JCPVs) for the Philippine Navy.

The £10.4m first phase contract involves supplying the Philippines Navy with upgrade services and support that will allow the patrol vessels to meet their operational capabilities over the course of the next 15-20 years.

The upgrade involves the installation of an advanced new weapons system, the boat's 25mm canon, the design and manufacture of its seating and the overhaul of the main 75mm gun up forward. The installation of modern navigation aids, fire control systems, and the complete integration of all related systems are also part of the programme.

The three ex-RN Hong Kong patrol ships, Built by Hall Russel of Aberdeen, Scotland, have a displacement of 712 tons and are powered by Pielstick diesel engines with two shafts, producing 14,188 bhp with a top speed of 25 knots.

The contract was signed with the Philippine Department of National Defence. Under terms of the agreement, QinetiQ, which has extensive experience in managing similar complex managed services such a through-life support projects for naval vessels and military aircraft, will manage the upgrade of three JCPVs.

QinetiQ managing director David Anderson said: "This is an exciting project which sees QinetiQ extending its reputation into the ASEAN region."

Two other major phases of the project covering propulsion and through life support are currently under negotiation.

The Jacinto class patrol vessels form a central capability in the Philippines national security and counter terrorism activities. They patrol a vast stretch of coastline stretching from the Luzon strait at the very northern tip of the islands near Taiwan, down to the island of Mindanao in the Celebes sea, waters which experience large volumes of traffic from neighbouring Malaysia, Indonesia and beyond.

The Philippine Navy's principal mission is to protect and police the nation's 7,100 islands with a combined coastline of 36,289 kilometres, double that of the United States.

The Philippine Navy provides support for important support missions for the other armed forces and agencies of the government, especially in transporting troops and equipment between islands. It occasionally joins with other services in conducting joint operations and amphibious assaults.