Offshore Patrol
|
|
The Offshore Patrol (Mosquito Fleet) was a rudimentary navy, intended for inshore defenses only, called for by the Philippine National Assembly in its National Defense Act of 1935. This act called for the creation, by 1946, of a force of 36 torpedo boats (PT) which were to be built and designed by British shipbuilders.
Two of the boats had been delived by 1939, when the war in Europe began. By October 1941, a third boat had been assembled in the Philippines. Apparently there were eventually 5 boats built, and attached to USAFFE, although they are not always listed in strength and composition tables.
Torpedo Boats of the Offshore Patrol
These boats were based at Cavite Naval Base, Luzon
- PT Q-111 Luzon
- Major E. Jurado
- PT Q-112 Abra
- Lieutenant R. Alcaraz
- PT Q-113 Agusan
- Lieutenant S. Nuval
- PT Q-114 Danday
- Lieutenant A. Campo
- PT Q-115 ?
- Lieutenant C. Albert
Offshore Patrol Torpedo Boat Designs
The PT-boats of the Offshore Patrol were to be 65 ft long, with a 13 ft beam. They were to have three 12-cylinder engines, and a speed of 41 knots. Their armament was to consist of 2 torpedo tubes, depth charges, and light antiaircraft guns.
US Military Advisor to the Commonwealth of the Philippines General MacArthur states, "A small fleet of such vessels will have distinct effect in compelling any hostile force to approach cautiously."
See also: Military History of the Philippines