MANILA, Philippines - The Philippine Navy's latest warship, the Ramon Alcaraz (PF-16), has begun her sea trials on as part of preparations for her delivery to the Philippines. The warship has been undergoing a major refit at a cost of $15.15 million since she was acquired by the Philippines in May 2012. The 378-foot-long Alcaraz was commissioned in 1968 and served with the U.S. Coast Guard as the USCGC Dallas until she was decommissioned and turned over to the Philippines in May.
The delivery of the Ramon Alcaraz is part of a major upgrade of the Philippine Navy designated Strategic Sail Plan 2020. Philippine President Benigno S. Aquino III has disclosed that this will include the purchase of three multipurpose attack craft, eight amphibious assault vehicles, two frigates equipped with an anti-submarine warfare helicopter each, and a major upgrade to the Philippine Navy's Communication, Intelligence, and Surveillance System.
Source: http://www.rappler.com/nation/29640-ph-navy-warship-starts-sea-trial-at-us-coast
Associated URL:
http://news.xinhuanet.com/english/world/2013-05/21/c_132398090.htm
Author: Ace Tamayo
