"The MPACs, as proven in the ongoing Zamboanga City operations,
are ideal craft for coastal patrol and defense work due to high speed
and maneuverability," PN spokesperson Lt. Cmdr. Gregory Fabic said.

The Navy is already in the 1st stage of procurement process for the
said attack crafts worth 90 million each.

MPAC is 16.5 meters long, 4.76 meters wide and a draft of one meter.
It's hull is made from high grade aluminum and has a range of 300
nautical miles. It can cruise to a top speed of 45 knots, can stop
abruptly and hit top speed in minutes after stopping.

"(Acquisition of three MPACs) is part of the PN's medium term
capability upgrade program. Three MPACs (are scheduled) to be
acquired within 2013 to 2017," Fabic added

The MPAC is capable of operating in territorial waters up to
"Sea State 3" (slight waves) without any system degradation and can
cruise in shallow waters like a boss. It is armed with one .50 caliber and
two 7.62mm machine guns and can
carry 16 fully-equipped Marines/NAVSOG or two tons of cargo.

Three of the MPACs, the Mark 1, were sourced from Taiwan
through a Joint Venture Agreement between a Taiwanese Ship
Design Center and Shipyard and a Philippine Marine System
Integrator, PROPMECH Corporation.

The remaining three 3 units, Mk II, were supplied by the same
Philippine Systems Integrator who ensured transfer of knowledge
and system skills in the production of the Mk II boats to the Philippines.

The same SI invested heavily in setting up the production facility for the
MK II under Safe Hull Marine Shipyard, a Business Entity of
PROPMECH Corporation, in keeping with good faith for providing
the Philippine Navy with its special combat boat requirement.