Thailand ratifies defence industry MOU with Philippines
04 March 2021
by Jon Grevatt
Thailand’s government has ratified an agreement with the Philippines to expand defence industrial collaboration. The memorandum of understanding (MOU) – announced in early March – supports Thailand’s proposed export of offshore patrol vessels (OPVs) to its Southeast Asian neighbour.
The Thai government said in a notice that the MOU provides a formal framework for the two countries to engage in defence trade with each other and to undertake joint research, development, and production projects.
Thailand and the Philippines have signed an agreement to collaborate on defence production. The accord could support Thailand’s proposed export to its Southeast Asian neighbour of the BAE Systems’ designed Krabi-class OPV (pictured here). (BAE Systems)
Philippine Navy to start upgrade of its three Del Pilar-class frigates Philippine Navy to start upgrade of its three Del Pilar-class frigates Monday, 25 January 2021 18:50
According to information published by the Asia Pacific Defense Journal on January 22, 2021, the Philippine Navy expects to start the upgrade of its three Del Pilar-class frigates within the year in collaboration with the South Korean company Hanwha Systems.
(Picture source Twitter Max Montero)
In August 2019, South Korean company Hanwha Systems and the Philippines Department of National Defense (DND) signed a contract to upgrade the Del Pilar-class Frigate. The upgrade of the ships will include Naval Shield Integrated Combat Management Systems (CMS) from Hanwha Systems, and a new hull-mounted sonar and Electronic Support Measures (ESM) system.