Hyundai Heavy Industries has reached a significant milestone in its partnership with the Philippine Navy by officially launching the second Miguel Malvar-class guided-missile corvette. The inauguration took place at the company’s shipyard in Ulsan, South Korea, and is part of a comprehensive contract signed in 2021 for the construction of two advanced warships. These vessels are designed to augment the capabilities of the Philippine Navy, complementing the previously delivered Jose Rizal-class frigates, which were also built by Hyundai.
During the launch ceremony, the new corvette, designated BRP Diego Silang (FFG-07), was ceremoniously transferred from the shipyard’s dry dock into the water, marking a significant moment in its development. Once completed and officially handed over to the Philippine Navy, the Silang will join its lead counterpart in the Malvar-class series, the FFG-06, which is anticipated to arrive at Subic, Zambales, in early April.
The Silang is expected to be delivered officially in September 2025, aligning with ongoing efforts to bolster the naval capabilities of the Philippines amidst escalating security concerns in the West Philippine Sea. The Armed Forces of the Philippines emphasized the importance of these new warships, highlighting that they represent a substantial enhancement of the country’s maritime defense capabilities and its commitment to stability and defense cooperation with South Korea.
The Malvar-class frigates are outfitted with an array of powerful weaponry, including anti-ship cruise missiles, torpedoes, and a range of naval guns. Specifically, the armament includes a 76-millimeter naval gun, a 35-millimeter rapid-fire cannon, and heavy machine guns of 12.7 millimeters. In addition to its formidable firepower, the class features advanced electronic warfare capabilities, modern communication systems, and mortar decoy launchers.
Measuring 118 meters (387 feet) in length and incorporating a beam of 15 meters (49 feet), the Malvar-class corvette is designed to accommodate small rigid-hull inflatable boats, as well as a flight deck and a hangar suitable for a 12-ton (10,886-kilogram) maritime helicopter. The vessel is powered by four MTU-STX diesel engines, allowing it to achieve speeds of up to 25 knots (29 miles/46 kilometers per hour) and offering a substantial operational range of 4,500 nautical miles (5,179 miles/8,334 km). Moreover, it boasts an operational endurance of up to 20 days, underscoring its capabilities for long-duration missions.
This development marks a significant step in the modernization of the Philippine Navy, reflecting the government’s strategic initiatives to enhance national security and foster stronger ties with international partners.
