The Philippine Navy has submitted a proposal to acquire two corvettes with anti-submarine capabilities to strengthen maritime defense.
Rear Admiral Roy Vincent Trinidad, spokesperson for the West Philippine Sea, emphasized the need for additional modern naval assets due to escalating threats in Philippine waters.
Currently, the country has two missile frigates with anti-submarine capabilities: BRP Jose Rizal (FF-150) and BRP Antonio Luna (FF-151).
The Navy also plans to develop technology capable of detecting submarines operating within the Philippines’ sea lines of communication and territorial waters.
Two guided missile corvettes and six offshore patrol vessels are under contract with South Korea’s HD Hyundai Heavy Industries to bolster the country’s naval fleet.
Trinidad noted that while the government continues to enhance its undersea warfare capabilities, the Philippines remains confident in its advanced tracking and monitoring systems for surface targets.
This acquisition aligns with the Navy’s long-term modernization program, aiming to address challenges posed by maritime threats.