The Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) confirmed on Monday the sighting of a Russian submarine in the Philippines.
According to the Philippine Navy, the submarine was spotted on November 28 and identified as UFA 490. It was located 80 nautical miles west of Cape Calavite, Occidental Mindoro.
“Upon receiving the report, the Philippine Navy (PN) immediately deployed assets to monitor and address the situation, ensuring the security of Philippine waters,” said Rear Admiral Roy Vincent Trinidad, spokesperson for the Philippine Navy regarding the West Philippine Sea (WPS).
The AFP reported that the Navy’s BRP Jose Rizal (FF150) established radio communications with the submarine, which confirmed its identity, crew complement, and navigational intent.
The Russian vessel indicated it was awaiting improved weather conditions before proceeding to Vladivostok, Russia.
Philippine naval forces, including FF150, escorted and monitored operations to ensure the submarine’s compliance with maritime regulations within the Philippine Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ).
“The AFP emphasizes its unwavering commitment to safeguarding the country’s maritime sovereignty while maintaining professionalism in interactions with foreign naval vessels. Our operations remain consistent with international maritime laws and demonstrate our dedication to regional peace and cooperation,” the AFP said.
The Russian vessel did not submerge as it moved slowly northward outside of the country’s territorial waters until the weekend. Throughout its passage, UFA was under close observation by the Philippine Navy’s BRP Jose Rizal.
The Kilo-class submarines, which weigh 4,000 tons when submerged and can patrol for up to 45 days, were designed by the Soviet Union in the 1970s and have undergone upgrades in subsequent years.
Dubbed one of the most advanced silent submarines, Ufa is capable of firing Kalibr missiles, which have been extensively used in Ukraine. It has an operational depth of 240 meters and can dive to a maximum depth of 300 meters.
