Surabaya – On June 30, Indonesia’s state-owned shipbuilder PT PAL Indonesia launched the third Tarlac-class Landing Platform Dock (LPD) it built for the Philippine Navy. This is the first “improved” ship from the follow-on two-ship contract ordered by the Philippines in 2022, with the fourth LPD also expected to be launched later this year.
The ship, bearing pennant number LD-603, was launched at PT PAL’s shipyard in Surabaya, East Java. Compared with the first two LPDs already in Philippine Navy service, the third and fourth vessels feature several changes and improvements requested by Manila, including a larger side ramp door and a larger vehicle deck to ease embarkation and disembarkation and to allow the ships to carry larger vehicles.
Both LPDs will carry two landing craft utility (LCU), which the Philippines also ordered from Indonesia. Following the launch, the ship will undergo outfitting, harbor acceptance tests, and sea acceptance tests before being delivered to the Philippine Navy later this year.
The launching ceremony was attended by officials from both countries, including the Flag Officer-in-Command of the Philippine Navy, Vice Admiral Jose Maria Ambrosio Quiatchon, and the Vice Chief of Staff of the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP), Lieutenant General Rommel P Roldan.
PT PAL CEO Kaharuddin Djenod said construction of both vessels faced supply chain disruptions and schedule adjustments due to geopolitical challenges.
Meanwhile, Vice Admiral Jose said the LPD will significantly enhance the Philippine Navy’s ability to transport troops, equipment, and logistics, while also improving its capacity to conduct a wide range of missions, particularly amphibious operations, humanitarian assistance and disaster relief (HA/DR), and power projection, including beyond Philippine waters. He added that the project also reflects the strong partnership between the Philippine and Indonesian navies.
Responding to Naval News’ question on the sensors and weapon systems to be installed on the ship, Vice Admiral Jose said no final decision has been made. However, he added that any selected sensors and systems should support the vessel’s multi-mission role. The vice admiral also expressed hope for more future collaboration between the Philippine Navy and PT PAL.
“(LPD) is a very useful, very effective (platform for the Philippine Navy)…We are looking forward to do more (cooperation with PT PAL)….we are very happy with the performance of our (Indonesian-built) LPDs”
Flag Officer-in-Command of the Philippine Navy, Vice Admiral Jose Maria Ambrosio Quiatchon
Lieutenant General Rommel said the launch marked an important milestone in the AFP’s modernization efforts, reflecting the country’s effort to modernize its military and meet growing operational demands. He added that the project also demonstrates expanding defence-industrial cooperation between the two nations and their shared commitment to maintaining peace and stability in the region.
LD-603 Specifications:
Length: 124 meters
Beam: 21.8 meters
Standard displacement: 7,200 tons
Maximum speed: 16 knots
Range: 9,360 nautical miles
Endurance: 30 days
Capacity: up to 680 personnel
