The Philippine Navy has expanded its fleet with the launch of its second Miguel Malvar-class corvette, the BRP Diego Silang. Developed by Hyundai Heavy Industries, the ship was ceremonially transferred to water for the first time in Ulsan, furthering Philippine efforts to modernize its maritime forces under Horizon modernization Phase II.
This platform emphasizes multi-mission versatility — built for both patrol and combat — and is expected to elevate the surface warfare capabilities of the fleet with high-end radar, sensors, and missile systems. These ships serve not only as a defensive asset but as tools for asserting sovereignty in contested maritime space.
Once integration is complete, both vessels will bolster Manila’s capacity to operate independently and in coalition efforts with regional partners and U.S. allies, contributing to balance in Southeast Asian sea lanes.
