Subic Bay Freeport — The Philippine Navy and the United States Navy are seeking to bolster naval cooperation through fleet modernization and sustainment initiatives under the International Fleet Support Program, official sources said.

US Navy Capt. Tammy McCreary, deputy portfolio acquisition executive for the program, known as PMS 326, visited the Philippine Fleet at the Naval Operating Base on 21 September to discuss capability requirements and ongoing modernization efforts.

Philippine Fleet Commander Commodore Raul A. Regis welcomed McCreary and the visiting US delegation.

During the meeting, officials discussed joint sustainment programs, international fleet support, and operational readiness strategies to enhance the capabilities of the Philippine Fleet.

The visit highlights ongoing military cooperation between the two allied nations as the Philippine Navy transitions from relying on secondhand vessels to acquiring modern, newly built surface combatants and strategic assets under the Armed Forces of the Philippines’ revised “Re-Horizon 3” modernization plan.

Recent upgrades to the fleet include advanced guided-missile platforms, such as the Jose Rizal-class frigates and the newer Miguel Malvar-class corvettes, both equipped with surface-to-air and anti-ship missile capabilities.

The fleet has also bolstered its strategic sealift and disaster response capacity with recent additions of offshore patrol vessels, including the BRP Rajah Lakandula, and the launch of a new landing dock constructed in partnership with Indonesian shipbuilder PT PAL.