3.5k SHARES 95 VIEWS Share Tweet Google Whatsapp Pinterest Digg Linkedin Reddit Stumbleupon Buffer Pocket

The United States government has approved the possible sale of two (2) AN/SPS-77 Sea Giraffe 3D Air Search Radars and related equipment, support, and training worth approximately USD25 million. “The Defense Security Cooperation Agency delivered the required certification notifying Congress of this possible sale on December 12, 2016,” US Department of Defense – Security Cooperation Agency said in a news release dated December 14.

US Defense Security Cooperation Agency said the Government of the Philippines has requested the said possible sale. The principal contractor will be VSE and Saab.

These radars will be installed to two Gregorio del Pliar-class frigates of Philippine Navy. The said class of warships were formerly used by the US Coast Guard as Hamilton class high endurance cutters.

“The AN/SPS-77 Air Search Radars will be used to provide an enhanced ability to detect and track air contacts,” US Defense Security Cooperation Agency.

“The Philippines seeks to increase its Maritime Domain Awareness (MDA) capabilities in order to improve monitoring of its vast territorial seas and Exclusive Economic Zones (EEZ). An effective Philippine MDA capability strengthens its self-defense capabilities and supports regional stability and U.S. national interests,” US Defense Security Cooperation Agency said.

“Implementation of this proposed sale will not require the assignment of any US or contractor representatives to the Philippines. US contractors, under US government oversight, will be in the Philippines for installation and associated support of this new radar on these Philippine Navy ships,” the US agency said.