The Philippines is on the verge of potentially acquiring its first submarines, following discussions that took place between President Ferdinand Marcos and representatives from South Korea’s Hanwha Ocean during the recent APEC Summit in 2025. This initiative, if solidified through an agreement, would encompass not only the delivery of submarines but also the training of crews and the establishment of a dedicated base and maintenance facility to support long-term operational capabilities.
The proposal includes the provision of KSS-III-class submarines, notable for their advanced sonar and combat systems, as well as lithium-ion batteries that allow for greater endurance underwater. Should this deal move forward, it would signify a significant advancement for the Philippines in terms of its military capabilities and represent the country’s inaugural foray into submarine operations.
This endeavor aligns closely with the Philippines’ Self-Reliant Defense Posture initiative, which seeks to modernize its military capabilities, enhance national defense, and foster stronger alliances with partner nations. According to the Philippine News Agency, Hanwha’s proposal is part of a broader trend of growing defense collaboration between the Philippines and South Korea, which has already included the acquisition of FA-50 fighter jets and various naval assets over the past decade.
The interest in submarines is not a new development for the Philippines; the nation has previously indicated a desire to strengthen its maritime defense, with a submarine acquisition program estimated to cost as much as $1.9 billion. This desire is underscored by increasing maritime tensions in the West Philippine Sea, pressing the country to enhance its defense capabilities.
In April, European shipbuilders Fincantieri and thyssenkrupp Marine Systems (TKMS) also entered into an industrial cooperation agreement to provide submarine solutions for the Philippine Navy. This partnership would see Fincantieri offering its U212 Near Future Submarine, a model developed in collaboration with TKMS specifically for the Italian Navy.
Furthermore, in 2022, France’s Naval Group extended its support to the Philippines, proposing its Scorpene-class diesel-electric submarines as potential candidates to become the nation’s first submarines. As the Philippines continues to explore and solidify its defense strategies, collaborations with various international partners could play a crucial role in enhancing its naval capabilities.
