Philippine Navy modernises with 2 new warships, but experts warn of strategic trade-offs

The Philippine Navy’s acquisition of two advanced warships from South Korea is set to significantly strengthen its force projection capabilities in the South China Sea, but questions remain over whether such large vessels are the best investment for Manila’s evolving security needs.

The Philippine Navy’s chief, Vice-Admiral Jose Ma. Ambrosio Ezpeleta, confirmed on Monday the impending arrival of the 3,200-tonne BRP Miguel Malvar early next month and the BRP Diego Silang later in the year.

Both vessels, classified as guided missile frigates, are more than 100 metres in length and come equipped with anti-submarine and anti-aircraft capabilities. They are the result of a 28 billion Philippine peso (US$483 million) deal that the Department of National Defence signed with shipbuilder HD Hyundai in 2021.

Analysts viewed the new warships as part of Manila’s effort to extend its military reach beyond its exclusive economic zone, a goal that requires a larger and more advanced naval force to secure its expansive maritime territory.

“Right now, frigates are the most visible and most versatile means of projecting that force in the South China Sea, while the Philippine Coast Guard remains the ‘frontline’ agency when responding to Chinese incursions at sea,” former Philippine Navy defence analyst Vincent Kyle Parada told This Week in Asia.