The Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) has expressed keen interest in acquiring advanced military equipment, particularly the Advanced Light Helicopter (ALH) MK III, developed by Indian defense firms. This intent was highlighted during a recent visit by a five-member PCG delegation to New Delhi, India. Led by PCG Commandant Admiral Artemio Manalo Abu, the delegation engaged in a bilateral meeting with the Indian Coast Guard (ICG) to explore opportunities for enhanced maritime cooperation.
_Mk-III_of_Indian_Coast_Guard.jpg)
Indian Coast Guard (GODL-India), GODL-India, via Wikimedia Commons
During their visit, the PCG delegation had the opportunity to witness the operational capabilities of various indigenous Indian ships and aircraft, including the impressive ICG ALH MK III helicopter. Developed and manufactured by Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL), the ALH MK III is equipped with cutting-edge features such as modern surveillance radar, electro-optical sensors, Shakti engines, a full-glass cockpit, high-intensity searchlight, and advanced communication systems. These attributes empower the helicopter to excel in maritime reconnaissance and search-and-rescue missions over extended ranges, day or night.
Commandant Abu personally experienced the ALH MK III’s capabilities firsthand by embarking on a “customer demonstration flight” aboard the helicopter. This direct engagement underscored the potential effectiveness of the helicopter for the PCG’s maritime operations.
In addition to their interaction with the ALH MK III, the PCG delegation also visited the ICG Offshore Patrol Vessel (OPV) Sujeet. The delegation witnessed the versatile capabilities of this vessel, which is entirely designed by the Goa Shipyard Limited (GSL) and utilized by the ICG to safeguard India’s territorial waters.
The visit further solidified the collaboration between the PCG and the Indian Coast Guard, highlighting shared objectives and approaches to ensuring maritime safety and security in the Indo-Pacific region. The engagement between the two coast guards also included the signing of a memorandum of understanding (MoU) to enhance professional linkage in areas such as Maritime Law Enforcement, Maritime Search and Rescue, and Marine Pollution Response.
For more information, hit the Source below