MANILA, Philippines – The Department of National Defense (DND) is planning to purchase two modern submarines as part of the modernization program of the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP), Defense Undersecretary Irineo Espino announced Friday, Nov. 17.
The acquisition of these submarines will significantly enhance the AFP's capability to defend our maritime territories and safeguard our national security, Espino said.
The DND has identified Hanwha Ocean, a leading South Korean shipbuilder, as a potential supplier for the submarines. The company has proposed its Jang Bogo-class submarine, which is currently in service with the South Korean Navy.
The acquisition of the submarines is part of the third phase of the AFP modernization program, which is aimed at equipping the military with modern weapon systems to address emerging security threats.
Missile Corvettes on Track
Espino also provided an update on the construction of two missile corvettes for the Philippine Navy. The corvettes are being built by Hyundai Heavy Industries (HHI) under a P28-billion contract signed in 2021.
"The construction of the corvettes is on track, and we expect the first corvette to be delivered in 2025, and the other one in 2026," Espino said.
The missile corvettes will provide the Philippine Navy with enhanced anti-ship, anti-submarine, and anti-air warfare capabilities.
Modernizing the AFP
Espino emphasized the importance of modernizing the AFP to address the evolving security landscape.
With the changing global security environment, the Philippines must be equipped with modern defense assets to protect our national interests, Espino said.
The DND is committed to providing the AFP with the necessary resources to carry out its mandate of defending the country.
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