On March 27, South Korean shipbuilder HD Hyundai Heavy Industries launched the second 3,200-ton displacement corvette built for the Philippine Navy, which will be named BRP Diego Silang (FFG-07). The ceremony took place at the company’s facilities in Ulsan, attended by key Philippine naval and ministerial officials, who stated that this milestone represents a significant step in strengthening the country’s defense capabilities.
It is worth noting that this launch comes nearly a year after the shipyard launched the first vessel of the class, BRP Miguel Malvar (FFG-06). Currently, the ship is en route to Philippine waters for its formal induction into the Navy, with its arrival expected at its new base in Subic on April 8. According to previous reports, this delivery is set to occur nearly six months ahead of the initial schedule.
Regarding the specifications of these vessels, they measure 118.4 meters in length and 14.9 meters in beam, making them larger than the José Rizal-class frigates currently in service with the Philippine Navy. Each ship is designed to cruise at speeds of 15 knots, with an estimated range of 4,500 nautical miles. In terms of armament, the corvettes will feature a 16-cell vertical launch system (VLS), a 76mm main gun, and eight anti-ship missiles, among other weaponry. For target detection, the ships will be equipped with a 3D AESA radar system.
Finally, it is relevant to highlight that the introduction of these corvettes is part of a broader modernization initiative undertaken by Manila, reinforcing its partnership with the South Korean naval industry. Specifically, the “Horizon” program aims to deliver ten new vessels to the Philippine Navy, including two frigates (contracted in 2016), two corvettes (2021), and six offshore patrol vessels (2022), all of which are being built by HD Hyundai Heavy Industries.
Image credits: @TeamAFP, NewsWatch
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