The BRP Agta (LC-290) is a landing craft heavy of the Philippine Navy. From 1972 to 2012, it was known as HMAS Balikpapan (L 126) and served the Royal Australian Navy. It was decommissioned in December 2012, was stored until it was sold by the Australian government to the Philippine Navy to assist in improving the country's Humaritarian and Disaster Relief capabilities.[1]
Prior to commissioning with the Philippine Navy, the ship, together with the former HMAS Betano and HMAS Wewak, underwent refurbishing, refit, and servicing works in Cebu for a few months.[2]
The ship was commissioned to Philippine Navy, together with 2 other sisterships and a new landing platform dock, on 1 June 2016 in Manila.[3]
Operational history
In December 2018, the BRP Agta together with the BRP Waray (LC-288), Multi-Purpose Attack Craft (MPAC) Mk 1 (BA-484), BRP Juan Magluyan (PC-392), Philippine Marine Corps and Naval Special Operations Group units conducted an Amphibious Operation on Minis Island, Patikul, Sulu that resulted in the neutralization of seven Abu Sayyaf bandits, apprehension of 10 individuals and the recovery of several firearms and other war materials. The crew of the BRP Agta were later given the Military Merit Medal (Philippines) with Spearhead Device for their participation in the operation.[4]
See also
References
- ^ "Australia confirms Philippines' acquisition of three ex-RAN landing craft". IHS Jane's 360. 2015-10-28. Retrieved 2016-06-01.
- ^ "3 new ships officially turned over to Navy". The Philippine Star. 2016-03-30. Retrieved 2016-06-01.
- ^ "Navy chief asserts need to focus on territorial defense amid sea tensions". Philippine Daily Inquirer. 2016-06-01. Retrieved 2016-06-01.
- ^ "Navy fetes Western Mindanao Personnel for Gallantry, Performance"
External links
 Royal Australian Navy | |
|---|---|
 Papua New Guinea Maritime Element | |
 Philippine Navy | |
| |