Philippines Largest Naval Ship Leads The Naval Blockade Against Abu Sayyaf In Sulu

The newest and largest vessel of Philippine Navy, BRP Tarlac, was deployed to lead the naval blockade against the terrorist Abu Sayyaf Group because of its reported plan to escape via the Sulu Sea.

Photo via GMA

The BRP Tarlac naval ship commander will preside the operations day and night. It will pursue any suspicious ships/vessel to check its passengers and cargos. Without any necessary documents, it can capture any suspicious vessel.

Equipped with the latest technology, BRP Tarlac also has an AugustaWestland 109 helicopter with combat support and aerial surveillance capabilities for both day or night flying missions.

The BRP Tarlac turn-overed to Philippine Navy last May 2016. It has high-tech navigation and surface search radar, air search radar, an electronic warfare system, electro optical fire control and combat management system to boost its operation.

The ship contains an enclosed hangar for a 10-ton helicopter and its flight deck can carry two 10-ton helicopters.

The BRP Tarlac is part of a P3.87-billion, two-vessel contract between the Philippine government and an Indonesian shipbuilder PT PAL Persero. — Joseph Tristan Roxas/VVP, GMA News

Meanwhile, the report said the Navy has yet to encounter any ASG insurgents but are preparing in case the group receive reinforcements from nearby Basilan province.

Source: GMA News