The Philippine Navy has inspected a Japan Maritime Self-Defense Force (JMSDF) Abukuma-class destroyer escort being considered for transfer, according to Japanese media reports.
In July, the Navy confirmed the prospective transfer and said it was preparing for a Joint Visual Inspection (JVI) of the ships following an official invitation from Japan’s Ministry of Defense.
NHK reported that Philippine officials visited the JMSDF’s Sasebo base in Nagasaki Prefecture to inspect the Jintsuu, one of the six Abukuma-class vessels.
The Abukuma-class ships measure 109 meters in length, displace about 2,000 tons, and are armed with anti-ship missiles. Japan plans to retire all vessels of the class as it transitions to more manpower-efficient warships.
“Sources say the Japanese side is also working to realize the plan. The move is seen as aimed at strengthening cooperation, with China in mind,” the report said.
Japan’s strict rules on defense equipment transfers generally prohibit the export of lethal weapons, but exceptions are allowed for joint development or production with partner nations. The Ministry of Defense said it is still reviewing whether the idea aligns with these principles.
