The Philippines received the first of two corvette-class warships, the BRP Miguel Malvar, as part of a deal with South Korea’s Hyundai Heavy Industries. This arrival comes amid increasing tensions with Beijing over the South China Sea. Corvettes are fast warships used for protection. The ship’s arrival is seen as a step towards developing a credible defense posture. The Philippines has been facing confrontations with Chinese vessels in the South China Sea, which China claims almost in its entirety. The second ship, BRP Diego Silang, was launched last month in South Korea and is scheduled to arrive soon. The Philippines has been strengthening its naval capabilities to address security challenges in the West Philippine Sea. In addition to the warships, the Philippine Coast Guard received 20 surveillance drones donated by Australia to enhance maritime surveillance capabilities. The Philippines has also been deepening ties with allies and considering acquiring the US mid-range Typhon missile system. The United States recently approved the possible sale of F-16 fighter jets to the Philippines. These developments reflect the Philippines’ efforts to bolster its maritime security and push back against Beijing’s claims in the South China Sea.
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Philippines boosts maritime defense with faster warship to strengthen national security.
