UK-based navigation systems supplier Kelvin Hughes announced it has been awarded a contract to deliver its navigation radars for the Philippine Navy’s two new frigates currently being constructed by Hyundai Heavy Industries.
The contract for the construction of the 2,600 ton frigates was awarded to HHI in October 2016 with the first ship expected to be handed over in 2020.
In addition to its SharpEye navigation radars, Kelvin Hughes said it would be also supplying two multifunction bridge radar displays for the Philippine Navy frigate acquisition program.
The frigates are designed as a smaller version of the Incheon-class frigate which is already in service with the Republic of Korea Navy.
According to HHI, the 107 meter frigates will be propelled with a CODAD (Combined Diesel and Diesel) propulsion system reaching maximum speeds of 25 knots.
The vessels (hull numbers P159 and P160) will have stealth characteristics, further complemented by the low radar cross section design of the upmast SharpEye™ radar sensor carbon fibre housing and antenna turning unit.
With a projected range of 4,500 nautical miles range at a cruising speed of 15 knots, the ships will be operable up to Sea State 5.