![An Israeli Navy Shaldag-class patrol boat Image: Israel Defense Forces](http://media.assettype.com/bairdmaritime%2Fimport%2Fwp-content%2Fuploads%2Fmedia%2Fk2%2Fitems%2Fsrc%2Fe0eef78dd9d32d44cc003860cb65517b.jpg?w=480&auto=format%2Ccompress&fit=max)
A senior official of the Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) has confirmed that the service is currently in talks with Israel Shipyards regarding the possible acquisition of new Shaldag Mark II-class fast patrol craft.
The planned acquisition seeks to fulfil the PCG's requirement for newbuild interceptor craft as part of its ongoing fleet modernisation programme.
The PCG and Israel Shipyards are also discussing potential modifications to the vessels to make them more suited for operations in Philippine waters.