The Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) has welcomed its newest offshore patrol vessel, BRP Gabriela Silang.
The change of flag ceremony for the 83-meter newbuild was held in Saint Nazaire, France, on December 18, 2019.
It follows the OPV-8301’s successful completion of sea trials .
The OPV is scheduled to depart from France on December 30 and is expected to arrive in Manila on February 10, 2020, according to the Philippine Department of Transportation.
Described as the world’s largest aluminum OPV by French shipbuilder OCEA, BRP Gabriela Silang will carry out all maritime security and safety missions under the responsibility of the coast guard in the waters of the Philippine archipelago.
With an autonomy of up to five weeks, the OPV can operate a 5-ton class helicopter and deploy two RHIBs 9.2 meters in length.
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French yard launching “world’s largest Aluminium OPV” for Philippine Coast Guard