South Korea has entered into a significant agreement to supply two additional next-generation frigates to the Philippine Navy, with the contract valued at 850 billion won, approximately $587 million. The deal was reportedly signed in Manila between South Korea’s Defense Acquisition Program Administration and the Philippine Department of National Defense.
Under this agreement, HD Hyundai Heavy Industries is tasked with the construction and delivery of two 3,200-ton frigates, with plans for completion of deliveries by 2029. This partnership is not new; HD Hyundai Heavy Industries previously delivered several vessels to the Philippines as part of the Horizon 3 modernization program, which includes patrol ships among other assets.
In June 2024, the Philippine Navy received its first 3,200-ton Miguel Malvar-class frigate from HD Hyundai, belonging to the same class as those specified in the recent contract. This further cements the relationship between the shipbuilder and the Philippine Navy, following a previous order placed in 2021 for two frigates at a cost of $556 million.
The introduction of these advanced frigates is part of the Philippines’ broader military modernization initiative. As regional security dynamics evolve, Manila is prioritizing investments in new weaponry and technologies to fortify its defense capabilities. The acquisition aligns with Re-Horizon 3, the final phase of a three-stage modernization agenda launched in 2013, in response to heightened tensions in the South China Sea.
Re-Horizon 3 emphasizes significant enhancements in maritime and air domain awareness, along with improved surveillance, reconnaissance, and intelligence capabilities, while also refining network connectivity. Prior to the approval of Re-Horizon 3, the Philippine armed forces had proposed an earlier Horizon 3 blueprint, which included potential acquisitions of multi-role fighter aircraft, frigates, missile systems, and advanced radar technologies.
This latest agreement underscores both nations’ commitment to strengthening defense ties and enhancing the operational readiness of the Philippine Navy amidst the backdrop of evolving security challenges in the region.
