The Philippine Navy has taken delivery of its first Rajah Sulayman-class offshore patrol vessel, BRP Rajah Sulayman (PS-20), under a shipbuilding agreement signed with HD Hyundai Heavy Industries in 2022. The acquisition supports Manila’s effort to enhance maritime domain awareness, border security, and counter-piracy operations across national waters.
The vessel was officially handed over in Zambales, where it will complete acceptance testing and pre-commissioning evaluations ahead of its planned induction into naval service in early 2026. The Rajah Sulayman-class program includes six OPVs, with construction of follow-on ships progressing on schedule and deliveries expected to continue through 2028.
Designed for long-range patrol and sustained operations, the 94-meter OPV accommodates up to 70 crew members, carries three RHIBs, and features a flight deck capable of helicopter operations. Its propulsion system, consisting of two MTU-STX diesel engines, provides a maximum speed of 22 knots, a range exceeding 5,500 nautical miles, and endurance of up to one month at sea.
For combat and surveillance missions, the platform integrates advanced navigation sensors, a combat management system, electronic warfare suites, and IFF technology. Armament includes a 76-mm naval gun, 30-mm cannons, and 12.7-mm machine guns, enabling effective response to surface threats. Upon full induction, the Rajah Sulayman OPVs will complement the Philippine Navy’s South Korea-built Rizal-class and Malvar-class vessels, reinforcing a growing, interoperable fleet.
