Manila: The Philippine Navy (PN) has earmarked a budget of PHP218 million for the acquisition of 1,900 rounds of 76mm caliber 62 high explosive detonating point (HEPD) ammunition, intended to enhance the firepower of its modern warships.
According to Philippines News Agency, the bid bulletin posted on the PN website outlines a total project budget of PHP218,842,103.30. The procurement process mandates that the successful bidder must deliver the specified ammunition within 400 calendar days following the issuance of the Notice to Proceed. Funding for the project is allocated from the General Appropriations Act 2025, specifically under the PN Appropriation Funds or Maintenance and Other Operating Expenses (MOOE).
The bid submission and opening are scheduled for 9 a.m. on August 7 at the PN Bids and Awards Committee located at Naval Station Jose Francisco, Fort Bonifacio, Taguig City. The PN has stated that the bid opening will be conducted through a blended approach, allowing bidders to participate either physically or via video teleconference (VTC) using the Zoom application. Any bids exceeding the approved budget will be automatically disqualified during the bid opening. The pre-bid conference for this project was held on July 24.
The 76mm gun system is a crucial component of the PN’s main armament across its major warships, including the Jacinto-class patrol ships, Gregorio del Pilar offshore vessels, the Conrado Yap-class corvette, the Jose Rizal-guided missile frigates, and the Miguel Malvar class-frigates, which are currently being delivered. This versatile weapon system offers a high rate of firepower, compatibility with various specialized ammunition types, and a compact design suitable for installation on smaller warships.
In addition, the PN is allocating PHP441.18 million for the procurement of 16,000 rounds of 35mm high explosive incendiary with tracer (HEI-T) ammunition. The acquisition details for this project mirror those of the 76mm HEPD rounds. The 35mm autocannon serves as one of the secondary gun systems for the PN’s fleet.
