The Philippine Navy (PN) is set to achieve further modernization milestones in 2026 with the expected delivery of key naval assets aimed at strengthening the country’s maritime security.
Navy spokesperson Capt. Marissa Martinez said they anticipate the arrival of additional platforms next year, including the third Tarlac-class landing dock platform and several offshore patrol vessels (OPVs), which are expected to enhance maritime security operations and extend the Navy’s operational reach.
“Looking ahead, the Navy anticipates significant milestones in its modernization journey,” Martinez said.
She emphasized, however, that the modernization program goes beyond the acquisition of modern combat platforms.
“While the procurement of advanced ships, aircraft, weapons systems, and C-4ISTAR (Command, Control, Communications, Computers, Intelligence, Targeting Acquisition and Reconnaissance) capabilities remains a priority, equal emphasis is placed on the essential enablers that allow these capabilities to be fully realized,” Martinez said.
These enablers include capacity-building through training, the continued development of naval bases and support facilities, improvements in sustainment, and force restructuring to address evolving operational requirements.
Martinez added that the Navy is actively exploring ways to strengthen its self-reliant defense posture, reinforcing its vision of becoming a modern, multi-domain and self-reliant navy, and a credible partner in promoting regional peace, stability and development.
For 2025, the Navy doubled the number of its missile-armed major surface combatants from two to four with the commissioning of BRP Miguel Malvar (FFG-06) and BRP Diego Silang (FFG-07).
With the addition of these two warships, the Navy’s first guided-missile frigates—BRP Jose Rizal (FF-150) and BRP Antonio Luna (FF-151)—received much-needed reinforcement as they continue patrols to protect the country’s vast maritime domains, including the West Philippine Sea.
The Navy’s modernization efforts are guided by the Philippine Navy Strategic Sail Plan 2040, which serves as its overarching organizational development framework.
Meanwhile, Korea Aerospace Industries Ltd. (KAI), a South Korean aircraft manufacturer, announced on Friday that it has signed an agreement with the Philippine Department of National Defense to enhance the performance of the Philippine Air Force’s FA-50 fighter jets.
The company said it will carry out a 93-billion-won ($64 million) performance upgrade program for 11 FA-50PH light attack aircraft through 2029.
A total of 12 FA-50PH aircraft were delivered to the Philippine Air Force between 2015 and 2017, but one aircraft was lost in a training accident.
Under the program, the FA-50PH fleet will gain enhanced precision-guided munitions capability, extended operational range, and improved endurance for sustained missions. The upgrades will also strengthen network-based interoperability, enabling more effective joint military operations, the company said.
“We will continue to expand KAI’s presence in the global defense market through customized performance upgrades and systematic follow-on support programs,” a company official said.
The FA-50PH light attack aircraft shares its platform with the T-50 advanced trainer, which can be configured as an attack aircraft when equipped with weapons.
In June, KAI signed a $700 million deal with the Philippine government to export 12 additional FA-50PH aircraft by 2030.
