The Philippine Navy's (PN) Submarine Saga

August 4, 2025: Submarine acquisition of the Philippines may have gone out of favor under BBM, as per a former Admiral of the Philippine Navy

The retired Rear Admiral Rommel Jude Ong, a former Vice Commander of the Philippine Navy (PN) recently wrote for the Rappler (yuck) News Publication stating his Observation that the acquisition of Submarines may have gone out of favor already under this Administration of Bong Bong Marcos (BBM). 

He is basing this Opinion on a recent Interview of Defense Secretary Gilberto Teodoro who said that the PN should look at Unmanned Systems or Drones as an Alternative instead. Ong argued in his Article for keeping the Submarine buy, but in the End says that if the Department of National Defense (DND) really wants to scrap the Program, then it should do so soon, and officially. 

Here is the Link to the Article at the Rappler Website: https://www.rappler.com/voices/thought-leaders/opinion-navy-submarine-program-challenges/ 

MY THOUGHTS:

I have always been a Proponent for the PN acquiring Subs based on the Lessons of the Falklands War where Argentina’s Submarines were the only ones left fighting the Naval Forces of the United Kingdom (UK) after the UK’s own Submarine sank Argentina’s biggest Battleship early in the War. 

That forced almost the entire Argentinian Navy to run and stay in Port, leaving only their Subs to fight the UK. Vietnam also as of now has their Submarines as the “Tip of the Spear” of their Navy, they don’t have Surface Combatants that are larger than 103 meters, smaller than our Jose Rizal class Frigates. 

But then again, I do understand the Issues with acquiring Submarines, particularly the Fact that it takes too long for them to be built. All of the Manufacturers that are offering their Subs to the PN that I have read always said it will take them around eight Years to build two Subs. 

For that same amount of time, you can already build at least twice that number of Frigates already, or around four. And at less cost also, as the Frigates we are getting costs are only around Usd 300-400 million each, while the Subs costs around Usd 500 million to Usd 1 billion each. 

The stunning success of Land-based Cruise Missiles and Unmanned Surface Vehicles (USV) by Ukraine against the powerful Russian Navy in their ongoing War also seem to indicate that those Weapons will be better Cost-Effective Alternatives to the much more expensive Submarines. 

In Fact I have seen some American Defense Articles talking about getting these USVs instead specifically for the Philippines, so that will just strengthen the Argument of their acquisition to our Defense Secretary since he is very much Pro-United States (US) already. 

This will also help the BBM Government spend less since it seems that its Php 2 trillion Modernization Program for the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) is mostly just Hype, it has not allocated sure Funding for the acquisitions any more than what the Administration of former President Rodrigo Duterte has. 

The BBM Government can now say, “we’re not buying Submarines not because we can’t afford to, but because there are cheaper and effective Alternatives like Cruise Missiles and USVs which are available”, ahem, char, LOL. 

SOURCE: [OPINION] The Navy’s Submarine Program: That Sinking Feeling {Archived Link}

April 16, 2025: Fincantieri and TKMS offers non-Magnetic Hulls, Naval Base and Italian Navy support to Philippines with their U212 NFS Submarines

Both Fincantieri SpA and ThyssenKrupp Marine Systems (TKMS) both released Press Releases on their own Websites containing a bit more Details of their offer of the Type 212 Near Future Submarine (NFS) or U212 NFS to the Philippines, and I thought I just needed to note it down for future Reference. So here is what they are offering: 

* With Air Independent Propulsion (AIP)

* Use of "Amanox" non-Magnetic Steel, probably for the Hull

* Training, Doctrine and Logistics Support from the Italian Navy 

* A new Naval Base, probably for the Submarines

You can read about the Press Release on the Fincantieri Website: https://www.fincantieri.com/en/media/press-releases/2025/fincantieri-and-thyssenkrupp-marine-systems-partner-for-philippines-submarines-project/

MY NOTES:

Surprise-surpise, they are indeed now offering the non-Magnetic Hull Feature which was previously not allowed for Export. As per the "Interwebs", Amanox is an Alloy known not only for its non-magnetic Properties, but also for its high Corrosion Resistance, making it ideal as Material for Submarine Hulls.

The U212 is about the only Submarine Model in active Service right now which is using a non-magnetic Hull, making it very hard to detect by Magnetic Mines and the Magnetic Anomaly Detector (MAD) used by some Anti-Submarine Warfare (ASW) Aircraft.  

The U212 uses Hydrogen Fuel Cells for its AIP which allows it to stay underwater without using Snorkels to recharge its Batteries for up to three Weeks, or 21 Days, and its Armaments consist of up to a maximum of 13 mix of Torpedoes and Missiles.

Note though that as per the Information released by South Korea (SK) a couple of Years ago, they are offering an additional Type 209-based Design Submarine if the Philippines buys two, sort of like a “Buy two, Take one” Deal. 

So the Philippines will have some hard Decisions to make when choosing which Submarine to get soon, get more older Design-based Subs, or get newer ones with some unique Features like the U212.  

SOURCES:

* Fincantieri and Thyssenkrupp Marine Systems Partner for Philippines Submarines Project {Archived Link}

* Hempel Metals and more, ALLOY 24 (1.4565) - Material Datasheet {Archived Link}

PAF NC-212i Light Transport Aircraft News

June 13, 2025: Indonesia will likely be the next Casualty in the DND’s Policy of buying only from Countries who support our Territorial Claims

I think that aside from Israel, Indonesia will be another "Casualty" of the new Department of National Defense's (DND) Policy of signing Military Contracts only with Countries who will support our Claims in the South China Sea (SCS). 

We have very good Relations with Indonesia, probably the Best with any Country in SEA, but we also do have Territorial Disputes with them. But of course like other Countries that is not China, we choose to appease them and not antagonize them because the United States (US) only wants us to fight China, and nobody else for now.

Not to mention the Fact that all of our other SEA Neighbors including Indonesia maintain very good and close Relations with China, it is only the Philippines who want to antagonize China because of its Loyalty to the US. Indonesia will not want to damage their more valuable Relations with China for the Philippines. 

Among the Defense Equipment we bought from Indonesia are the NC-212i Light Transport Aircraft, of which PNoy bought two and Bong Bong Marcos (BBM) bought another two to be delivered this Year of 2025. 

These Pictures are from back in March of 2024 after one of the Aircraft returned from Indonesia after its scheduled Inspection and Maintenance after 3,600 hours of Flight. 

You can access the original Pictures at the 220th Airlift Wing's Facebook Page Post here: https://web.facebook.com/220airliftwing/posts/pfbid0ZcDwopPDj34YpmyjSgnmc6oaASX7P5iYVixXiSFzsrAxFZeV71APse5BWKmf5mGFl

SOURCE: 220th Airlift Wing, Facebook Page Post, 03/21/24 – 2340H {Archived Link}

April 17, 2025: PAF becomes the first User of the Indonesian-made Cockpit Procedure Trainer for the NC212i Light Transport Aircraft

The Indonesian Company "IndoAviation Plus" recently announced that the Philippine Air Force (PAF) is the first Operator of their Cockpit Procedure Trainer (CPT) for the NC212i Light Transport Aircraft which consists of a Dynamic Motion Chair (DMC) and Touchscreen Displays. The System was installed at the PAF Trainer Squadron in Cebu. 

Here is the Link to the Article at the “IndoAviation Plus” Website: https://indoaviation.asia/first-nc212i-cockpit-procedure-trainer-manufactured-in-bandung-used-by-philippine-air-force/

MY NOTES:

Good that the PAF is investing in another Aircraft Simulator, this one is a little bit better than the ones we normally see around because of its moving Chair and use of Touchscreen Displays, which, as you can see from the Pictures, allow for much better simulation of the Cockpit of the Aircraft. 

It bothers me a bit that we are the first and so far only Operator of the System, but I guess that is due to the Procurement Law implemented under this Administration of the 'Bangag' which allows it to be such for the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP).

The Administration of AbNoy Panot initially bought two Aircraft back in 2014, and then the current Administration of the 'Bangag' bought another six back in April of 2023. Delivery of the six additional Aircraft is set to start this Year of 2025, in fact supposedly by next Month of May 2025. 

SOURCE: First NC212i Cockpit Procedure Trainer Manufactured in Bandung Used by Philippine Air Force {Archived Link} 

The Multi-Role Fighter (MRF) Saga of the Philippines, Part Two

July 1, 2025: Philippine Government unintentionally gives more Hints of getting Gripens after admitting it is seeking Loans from Sweden

Defense Secretary Gilberto Teodoro recently gave an Interview to the Press and talked about the Multi-Role Fighter (MRF) Program of the Philippine Air Force (PAF), and here are the Highlights of that Interview: 

* He said that they are ready to make a Decision on the MRF, but are still discussing how to fund it.

* The Department of Finance (DOF) has agreed to use a "Creative" Financing Program to fund the acquisition.  

* They are planning to fund the Aircraft acquisition thru a Loan which will be paid by the Government annually. 

* A Special Purpose Fund or Revenue from Exploration Activities might be used to sustain the Payments. 

* The DOF is considering using the Export Credit System from Sweden to acquire the Aircraft. 

Here are some direct Quotes from Secretary Teodoro during the Interview: "If it was up to me, I’m ready to make a Decision. But the Source of Funding, that’s what we’re discussing right now. This will be paid by the Government annually, the Government needs to allocate a Consistent Source of Repayment."

Here is the Link to the Article from the “Business World” Website: https://www.bworldonline.com/the-nation/2025/07/01/682699/philippines-ready-to-pick-fighter-jets-but-funding-hurdles-remain-dnd/

MY THOUGHTS:

Although Teodoro still didn’t say which MRF they are getting, it seems he has unintentionally admitted that they are planning to get the JAS-39 Gripen Aircraft for the PAF’s MRF Program when he revealed that the Government is seeking Loans from Sweden as the Aircraft is made there. 

So this is just another strong Hint that the Philippine Government intends to sign the Contract to get the Gripens once it irons out the Issues about financing it. However, nothing is more or less Final until a Contract is signed, but as of now, the Gripen is heavily favored to be the PAF’s MRF. 

SOURCE: Philippines ready to pick Fighter Jets but Funding Hurdles remain — DND {Archived Link} 

June 29, 2025: Getting the F-2 Viper Zero will also give the Philippines access to Japan’s new ASM-3A Supersonic Anti-Ship Missile

One Thing about Japan’s F-2 Viper Zero Multi-Role Aircraft is that it has pretty nice Weapons, I already discussed in a previous Post about its AAM-4 Medium Range Air to Air Missile which is one of the few Missiles in the World in Service right now equipped with a stealthy Active Electronically Scanned Array (AESA) Radar which is similar to what the Chinese PL-15 Missile is using. 

Another nice Weapon that the F-2 has is the new ASM-3A Supersonic Anti-Ship Missile which is set to go into Service at the end of this Year of 2025, and its main Platform will be of course, the F-2. The ASM-3A will be one of the few Supersonic Cruise Missiles that are being produced in the West and its Allies. 

It has a speed of Mach 3, and has a range of between 300 to 400 km. This is very similar to the BrahMos-Next Generation (NG) Missile that India was heavily promoting to the Philippines, except that the ASM-3A is much further along in Terms of its Development than the BrahMos-NG. 

The ASM-3A is about to enter Service while the BrahMos-NG is just starting its Flight Testing and will likely enter Service in about a Year or so. The BrahMos-NG has a slightly longer Range than the ASM-3A as it can fly up to 450 km, but is a little bit slower at Mach 2.8. The ASM-3A though is lighter at 950 kg versus the 1,500 kg weight of the BrahMos-NG. 

The ASM-3A’s fast speed in Theory means it will have a better chance of beating Enemy Air Defenses, giving them less time to react to it. Its Primary Mission is for use against Ships, but it can also be used to hit Land Targets. 

Now whether we get the Viper Zero or not, I think we should also consider very much these excellent Japanese Weapons. Trust the Japanese to develop on their own also great Weapons ahead of its Allies in the West, the US or Europe up to now still does not have an Anti-Air Missile with AESA Radar or Supersonic Anti-Ship Missile like Japan does have now. 

SOURCES:

* Mitsubishi Heavy Industries’ Delivery of ASM-3A Missiles to Japan Air Self-Defense Force in 2025: Enhancing Maritime Strike Capabilities {Archived Link}

* BrahMos-NG (Next Generation) Missile {Archived Link}

Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) News, 2025

June 2, 2025: BRP Rajah Sulayman OPV to be launched in June 2025, delivered in March 2026, and South Korean Offers for the AFP Modernization

Just some Updates on the Modernization of the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) based on the Interviews of the "Inquirer" of South Korean Arms Manufacturers at the recent "International Maritime Defense Exhibition (MADEX) 2025" in South Korea: 

* The first of six Offshore Patrol Vessels (OPV) being built by "HD Hyundai Company Limited" will be called the "BRP Rajah Sulayman" and will be launched later this Month of June 11, 2025. It is targeted for Delivery in March of next Year of 2026. 

* HD Hyundai also said that they are competing on the upcoming Frigate acquisition of the Philippine Navy (PN) which will be similar to the Malvar-class Frigates and will have a Budget of Php 34 billion. 

* South Korean Defense Manufacturers are offering the following Military Equipment and Weapons to the AFP: 

- Raybolt Anti-Tank Guided Missile

- Chiron Short-range Air Defense System

- Mid-range Surface to Air Missile Block II (M-SAM II)

- Global Positioning System (GPS)-guided Bombs

- K-9 Thunder Self Propelled Howitzer 

- K239 Chunmoo Rocket Artillery System

You can read the Article itself at the Inquirer Website here: https://globalnation.inquirer.net/279009/south-korea-eyes-expanded-arms-deals-with-ph

MY THOUGHTS:

The K-9 and M-SAM II could replace the Assets that we bought from Israel like the Autonomous Truck Mounted-howitzer System (ATMOS) and Surface-to-air Python and Derby (SPYDER) Systems, but the K-9 is heavier than the ATMOS while the M-SAM II seems to have a slightly lower range than the SPYDER. 

The K239 though could be competing directly with the United States (US) made High Mobility Artillery Rocket System (HIMARS), and since the Bong Bong Marcos (BBM) Administration likes the US so much then good luck with them on that. 

SOURCE: South Korea eyes expanded Arms Deals with PH {Archived Link}

May 28, 2025: Philippines still looking for Ways to finance F-16s, but Mobile, Land-based Missile Systems are being Prioritized

The Philippines' Ambassador to the United States (US), Jose Manuel Romualdez said that the Philippine Government is still looking for a way to finance the acquisition of F-16C Fighting Falcon Fighter Aircraft, but are prioritizing Land Based Weapons that are more affordable. 

Quoting Romualdez himself: "We're really looking at other Items that are, in View of our National Defense Strategy, more important than the F-16s. The F-16 will continue to be Part of the Overall Plan, perhaps, in the Future. But as of now, as I said, our Priority is more on Land-based Type of Defense Capabilities."

“As I said the F-16, it's an Aspiration that we've had for many, many Years. There are other Offers from other Countries like the Gripen, which is actually made in Sweden. But there’s a Question of Affordability.”

You can access the Article itself at the Website of the “GMA News” News Publication here: https://www.gmanetwork.com/news/topstories/nation/947619/ambassador-babe-romualdez-f-16-on-philippines-wishlist-land-based-weapons-a-priority/story/

MY THOUGHTS:

Well it is good to see our Government sometimes show some Common Sense, I for one fully support the acquisition of Mobile, Land-based Surface to Air and other Missile Systems first, and I think the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) will greatly benefit from it. 

Because for one, no Aircraft or Vessel need to be risked along with their Crews to defend against Aircraft, or to attack Naval Vessels or Land Targets. Another is that Mobile Land Missiles are a lot more survivable, they are not tied to vulnerable Runways like Aircraft, for Example, and are difficult to find. 

They are also a lot more affordable. F-16s and other Fighter Aircraft are a lot more Glamorous, but Mobile Land Missile Systems are more Practical and Affordable. The only Issue I see here is that with this Government’s insistence of tying Political Strings to Military Purchases as I had discussed before, then we may end up buying more expensive Military Assets from the US, Europe and Japan. 

It is likely that Israeli Assets are now out for the rest of this Administration. Not sure if other Defense Exporting Countries like Turkey will support our Claimed Territories in the South China Sea (SCS) also. I think we will likely buy more from the US, what with the current US President Donald Trump keep demanding other Countries to buy more from them. 

The US-made Typhon Mid-Range Capability (MRC) and High Mobility Artillery Rocket System (HIMARS) are likely high on the Philippines’ List, those have been discussed extensively for some time now. 

SOURCE: Babe Romualdez: F-16s on Philippines' Wishlist but Land-based Weapons a Priority {Archived Link}

Philippine Mistral Missile News

May 1, 2025: Jose Rizal class Guided Missile Frigates again makes History after the firing of Mistral 3 Surface to Air Missiles

The Jose Rizal-class Guided Missile Frigates of the Philippine Navy (PN) made History again when the BRP Jose Rizal (FF-150) fired two of its Mistral 3 Surface to Air Missiles (SAM) off the Coast of Zambales recently. 

MY THOUGHTS: 

As far as I know and remember, this is the very first time that the PN has shown a live-firing of the Mistral 3 in Public, and also the very first time a PN Vessel is shown firing a SAM. Both Missiles reportedly hit their Targets successfully. 

As per their latest Brochure, the Manufacturer of the Missile, MBDA, the Mistral 3 has a range of up to 8 km. The Jose Rizal Frigates each have two SIMBAD-RC Launchers to fire these Missiles, one on each Side, and each Launcher has two Missiles installed and ready to fire. 

Notice also that during firing, the Missile was ejected from the Launcher first with a low powered charge, after which the Missile ignited its main Motor when it was some distance already from the Launcher. So congratulations to the PN for this Historic Event. 

SOURCES: 

* Mistral 3: One Generation Ahead {Archived Link}

* The Philippine Fleet Facebook Page Post, 05/01/25 – 1800H {Archived Link}

October 4, 2024: BRP Rizal Crews tests their Mistral SAMs

Missilemen onboard the BRP Jose Rizal (FF-150) Guided Missile Frigate of the Philippine Navy (PN) warm up and conduct Maintenance Procedures on their Mistral Surface to Air Missiles (SAM) using Test Sets. 

The Procedure helps extend each Missile's Service Life, and also helps the Crew be aware on the actual Status of each Missile. Nice BRP Rizal T-Shirts, by the Way. The PN should make it available to the Public, I would buy an official one in a Heartbeat if it were available and there’s one my Size ...

Here is the Link to the Facebook Page Post of the BRP Jose Rizal FF150 – PF Facebook Page containing the original Pictures: https://web.facebook.com/ilustradoFF150/posts/pfbid02AKvB95kMbtmrfKBhbXXY48zG2bN9NYbPRzcJPiN3YSYSE6i7RpxiBZL6DSKsTsLyl

SOURCE: BRP Jose Rizal FF150 – PF Facebook Page Post, 10/04/24 – 2118H {Archived Link}

BrahMos Missile News

April 23, 2025: Gibo Teodoro confirms second BrahMos Missile Battery is arriving, also seems to confirm the improper Storage of first Battery

Defense Secretary Gilberto Teodoro Jr. confirmed the reports from the Indian Press that the second Battery of the BrahMos Missile System for the Philippine Marine Corps (PMC) is indeed now on its Way by Ship to the Philippines from India during a recent Interview.

He also seems to have confirmed that the first Battery wasn't properly being stored as reported before, but they are now trying to correct the Situation. Quoting from him directly during the Interview: "They’re on their way, we’re taking all the steps needed to use them properly.”

"What I’ve been working on is ensuring where they will be placed and stored, as these preparations weren’t ready before. We rushed to catch up and make the necessary Arrangements."

You can read more about his Interview at the "BusinessWorld" Website here: https://www.bworldonline.com/the-nation/2025/04/23/667980/philippines-to-get-2nd-batch-of-brahmos-supersonic-cruise-missiles-from-india/

MY NOTES: 

Remember that late last Year of 2024, I posted about how Senate President Francis Escudero said that a Missile System that he did not name that was bought from India was being stored improperly in Zambales. You can read about that Article here: https://therhk111militaryandarmspage.blogspot.com/2024/12/multi-billion-pesos-worth-brahmos-missiles-just-being-kept-ordinary-warehouse.html

So now it is confirmed that it is indeed the BrahMos, but since this System was bought during the Administration of former President Rodrigo Duterte back in June of 2022, I get the sense that they might put the blame on him then for this Issue. 

I don't agree with that, this new Administration KNEW that these Missiles were coming, they could've made the Preparations for the Storage Facilities themselves. Remember that while the Contract was signed in 2022, the first Battery only arrived in 2024, so they had a full two Years to prepare those Facilities. 

And yet they are only moving now, in 2025 after the first Battery already arrived. Shaking my Head ...

SOURCES: 

* Multi-billion Pesos worth of BrahMos Missiles just being kept in an ordinary Warehouse? {Archived Link}

* Philippines to get 2nd Batch of BrahMos Supersonic Cruise Missiles from India {Archived Link}

April 20, 2025: Second of three BrahMos Cruise Missile Battery of the Philippine Marines now on its Way by Ship to the Philippines

Citing anonymous Sources, the Indian Press is now reporting that the second of three BrahMos Cruise Missile Battery of the Philippine Marine Corps (PMC) is now on its Way to the Philippines by Ship. As reported before, the first Battery was delivered in April of last Year of 2024. No other significant Details have been provided though other than this. 

You can read the Article on the “Asianet News” Website here: https://newsable.asianetnews.com/india/india-ships-second-battery-of-brahmos-cruise-missile-to-the-philippines-ddr/articleshow-t9a55mi

MY NOTES:

There was some confusion over the delivery of the BrahMos Missiles last Year, I for one thought they were delivering all three Batteries already. It turns out now that it was only the first one. There was even a Report that said a fourth Battery was included also. 

That was probably just misinformation from the Indian Press, or a misinterpretation of the Facts. Anyway, as per the Gemini Artificial Intelligence (AI), it usually takes anywhere from seven to up to 21 Days for Sea Vessels to travel from India, depending on where the initial and final Ports are. 

Assuming that Ship had just departed when this report came out then it will arrive here in the Philippines in several Days or Weeks. The Contract for these BrahMos Missiles was signed in June of 2022 under the Administration of former President Rodrigo Duterte. 

As I reported before based on my Conversations with the PMC during the last Asian Defense and Security (ADAS) Event, there are only two Missile Firing Units (MFU) per Battery, and only two BrahMos Missiles for each MFU, making a total of four Missiles per Battery. 

So we now have four BrahMos Missiles on two MFUs, and another four Missiles on another two MFUs are on its Way. Eventually the third Battery will be delivered, I don’t know when, but we will have a total of 12 BrahMos Missiles on six MFUs. 

SOURCE: India ships second Battery of BrahMos Cruise Missile to the Philippines {Archived Link}

Italy’s Fincantieri and Germany’s ThyssenKrupp Marine Systems are offering their Type 212NFS Submarine to the Philippine Navy

Video Here

Podcast Here

The Italian Company "Fincantieri SpA" and the German Company "ThyssenKrupp Marine Systems" announced recently that they are entering a Strategic Partnership to support the Horizon III Military Modernization Program of the Philippine Navy (PN). 

Their Agreement will focus on the supply of U212 Near Future Submarines (NFS). In addition to Submarine Delivery, their Partnership will include Training, Logistics and Doctrinal Assistance from the Italian Navy. 

Revised Offer of F-16C/D Fighting Falcon Block 70/72 Aircraft to the Philippines approved by the US Government

Revised Offer of F-16C/D Fighting Falcon Block 70/72 Aircraft to the Philippines approved by the US Government

The United States (US) thru their Defense Security Cooperation Agency (DSCA) Website has approved a new Offer for the Sale of 20 F-16C/D Fighting Falcon Block 70/72 Fighter Aircraft to the Philippines with Spares, Weapons, Logistical Support and other related Equipment worth Usd 5.58 billion, or an average of around Usd 279 million per Aircraft. 

The Sale will consist of sixteen single-seat F-16C Block 70/72 Aircraft and four twin-seat F-16D Block 70/72 Aircraft. Included are the following Installed and Spare Equipment:

- 24 F110-GE-129D or F100-PW-229 Engines (20 installed, 4 spares) 

- 22 Improved Programmable Display Generators (iPDG) (20 installed, 2 spares)

- 22 AN/APG-83 Active Electronically Scanned Array (AESA) Scalable Agile Beam Radars (SABR) (20 installed, 2 spares)

- 22 Modular Mission Computers 7000AH (or available mission computer) (20 installed, 2 spares)

- 22 Embedded Global Positioning System (GPS) Inertial Navigation Systems (INS) (EGI) with Selective Availability Anti-Spoofing Module (SAASM) or M-Code capability and Precise Positioning Service (PPS) (20 installed, 2 spares)

- 22 M61A1 Anti-Aircraft Guns (20 installed, 2 spares)

- 12 AN/AAQ-33 Sniper Advanced Targeting Pods (ATP)

- 24 Multifunctional Information Distribution System-Joint Tactical Radio Systems (MIDS-JTRS)

BRP Miguel Malvar (FFG-06) Guided Missile Frigate News

May 21, 2025: Philippine Navy finally and discreetly calls the BRP Miguel Malvar as a “Frigate” during its Commissioning Ceremony recently

The BRP Miguel Malvar (FFG-06), the Lead Ship of the Miguel Malvar class Guided Missile Frigates of the Philippine Navy (PN) was finally commissioned into Service recently at the Naval Operating Base (NOB) in Subic, Zambales. 

The Event also coincided with the 127th Anniversary Celebration of the PN. The Ship is named after the last Filipino General to surrender to the United States (US) Forces during the Philippine-American War which ran from 1899 to 1902. 

You can access the original Pictures here on the Facebook Page Post of the PN: https://web.facebook.com/PhilippineNavy/posts/pfbid02Wh9r93c1q7FC93xPPkVSi3wxQVHex79FKeKLrfD7f3q3QVNNtwacj7cLQYuurPnXl 

MY THOUGHTS:

And just like that, discreetly or without any explanation at all on the new “FFG” Designation, or why they changed the Type of Vessel of the BRP Malvar, for as far as I can remember reading, the PN called it a “Frigate” on an official Publication of theirs for the first time. 

With that, despite the lack of explanation at all, I guess we can now also call the Ship as a “Frigate” also. Remember that during its entire Development, Planning and Procurement, they had always designated it as a “Corvette” despite the Fact that it is larger than the Jose Rizal class Frigates. 

Since they offered no Explanation at all, my Guess is that the PN was just desperate to come up with a new class of Ships to be their Flagship. The Jose Rizal class was plagued with Controversies during its Development, including one where the PN’s very own Flag Officer in Command (FOIC) ended up being dismissed for it. 

So that may be one Reason why they didn’t want it to be their Flagship. Which is such a Shame, because the Jose Rizal Ships ended up being such fine Vessels, and whether the PN likes it or not, they are the first Guided Missile Frigates of theirs. 

By renaming the Miguel Malvar class as “Corvettes” I think ensured that a new class of Ships will be made, and it did, and it also made it so distinct that it would be difficult to merge or morph the Project, or treat it as an improved class or Variant of the Jose Rizal Ships. At any rate, all’s well that ends well, I guess. 

SOURCE: Philippine Navy Facebook Page Post, 05/21/25 – 1932H {Archived Link}

April 9, 2025: Gokdeniz CIWS bigger than I expected, Covers on the Torpedo Launchers and RHIB help improve Stealth of the BRP Malvar Corvette

Just some nice Pictures and a Video of the BRP Miguel Malvar (FFG-06) Guided Missile Corvette of the Philippine Navy (PN), the latest Missile-armed Vessel of the Service during the Arrival Ceremony given to it in Subic recently. 

MY NOTES:

Just some of the Things I noticed about the Ship from the Pictures and Video, aside from the installed Vertical Launch System (VLS) Cells: The Gokdeniz Close In Weapons System (CIWS) is a LOT bigger than I thought it would be, you can clearly see its Size from the Picture with the PN Personnel standing next to it. 

It easily is around 3-4 meters tall, or 9-12 feet for you who are used to the United States (US) Standard of Measurement. I didn’t expect it to be that big, I thought it would be a bit smaller based on what I thought were the Full Scale Mock Ups (FSMU) that I saw at the Asian Defense and Security (ADAS) Events.  

Also noticeable is that Screen Mesh over the opening for the Rigid Hull Inflatable Boats (RHIB), and the Cover over the Torpedo Launchers that can be lowered or raised as needed. Both of these help enhance the Stealth Characteristics of the Ship. 

Among other Things, the Malvar-class Corvettes will be the first Vessels of the PN that are armed with VLS and Gun-based CIWS. The Contract for these Vessels was signed in December of 2021 under the Administration of former President Rodrigo Duterte. 

SOURCES: 

* Department of National Defense – Philippines Facebook Page Post, 04/08/25 – 1354H {Archived Link}

* Philippine Navy Facebook Page Post, 04/09/25 – 0805H {Archived Link}

2022 Marawi Liberation Anniversary

March 18, 2025: Philippine Soldiers made “War Sculptures” using Leftovers from their Supplies during the 2017 Battle of Marawi 

Also shown during the 5th Marawi Liberation Anniversary at the Philippine Army (PA) Headquarters in Taguig City back in October of 2022 were these “War Sculptures” made by Filipino Soldiers during the 2017 Battle of Marawi using only Leftover Materials from their Supplies. 

Not all of the Soldiers were fighting the Islamic State of Iraq (ISIS) Terrorists all the time during the Battle, and during some of these “Downtimes”, some of the more Artistic Soldiers started creating these Sculptures using Leftover Materials from their Supplies. 

As we can see from the Pictures, one was a Fighter or Bomber Jet Aircraft made from reshaped Brass Casings and Bullets while another one was a Tank made from Rifle and Machine Gun Brass Casings, Ammunition Links, 40 mm Grenade Casings and some other Material. Pretty creative, and a nice Memento for that particular War. 

March 11, 2025: Improvised Grenades w/ Coins or Concrete Nails for Shrapnel used by the Terrorists were shown at the 2022 Marawi Liberation Anniv.

Among the Items shown during the 5th Marawi Liberation Anniversary at the Philippine Army (PA) Headquarters in Taguig City back in October of 2022 were these Improvised Grenades that were used by the Islamic State of Iraq (ISIS) Terrorists against our Soldiers during the 2017 Battle of Marawi. 

As can be seen from the Pictures, these were basically just small Cylindrical Containers with Explosives and a Delayed Detonating Mechanism on the Inside, and improvised Shrapnel on the outside. One used large Philippine Coins while the other used Concrete Nails as Shrapnel Lining. 

They used either clear Cellophane Tape or Electrical Tape to attach the Coins or Nails to the outside of the Container. Despite being just improvised, these definitely does and did a lot of Damage and Casualties against our Troops during the Battle of Marawi. 

These Examples were recovered by our Forces during or after the War and of course has now been deactivated. 

AFP Simba Vehicle News

March 2, 2025: A look at a Simba Vehicle of the PA during a Static Display and Capability Demonstration in Samar recently

Just a nice look at a Simba Armored Personnel Carriers (APC) of the of the 7th Cavalry "Masasarigan" Company of the Armor "Pambato" Division of the Philippine Army (PA) during a Static Display and Capability Demonstration recently at Camp General Vicente Lukban in Samar. 

The PA started operating the Simba in the early 1990s, and was and is in Fact the only Operator of the Vehicle in the World. The Simba in the Pictures is armed with a .50 caliber Heavy Machine Gun (HMG), and the Vehicle’s Armor is designed to withstand up to 7.62 mm caliber Ammunition. 

Here is the Link to the Post on the 7th Cavalry Company Separate Facebook Page containing the original Pictures: https://web.facebook.com/permalink.php?story_fbid=pfbid0321cs6mZQ7cLrt7afnLDz5sKCsqRGfbuPiKaPXQ9mRBG3QbbNTXSWWgZXS9AxEjxSl&id=61557637163070

SOURCE: 7th Cavalry Company Separate Facebook Page Post, 03/02/25 – 1531H {Archived Link}

June 12, 2024: Simba Vehicles in Iligan City for the Independence Day Celebrations

Let’s show some love also for the Simba Armored Vehicles of our Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP), they have been in Service with us for three Decades now. We are the one and only Operator of the Vehicle, and although they did very well, this is one Reason I think why the AFP Procurement Law was changed before to ensure that we get Equipment that more Countries use also. 

These ones belong to the 4th Mechanized Battalion of the Philippine Army (PA) which took Part in the recent Civic-Military Parade of the 126th Independence Day Parade Celebrations in Iligan City. 

Here is the Link to the Post containing the original Pictures at the 4th Mechanized Infantry "Kalasag" Battalion, Philippine Army Facebook Page: https://web.facebook.com/4thMechanizedInfantryKalasagBattalion/posts/pfbid02tVHcW6F9CNDB9zKVRTJas6SCz2AD5YfLmiSDnQMGT2sm1ah567NgcXops36d8g2dl

SOURCE: 4th Mechanized Infantry "Kalasag" Battalion, Philippine Army Facebook Page Post, 06/12/24 – 1858H {Archived Link}

PAF S-211 News

March 5, 2025: PAF to use S-211 Jets for Maritime Patrols instead FA-50PH Aircraft which were grounded after the Crash on Mount Kalatungan

The Philippine Air Force (PAF) recently announced that the S-211 Basic Jet Trainer (BJT) Aircraft will temporarily take the Place of the FA-50PH Fighting Eagle Aircraft for Maritime Patrols, this after the remaining 11 FA-50PH Aircraft were grounded pending the Result of the Investigation into the Crash of one them into Mount Kalatungan in Bukidnon recently. 

MY NOTES: 

So the S-211 is back to being our Main Combat Aircraft for now, hopefully only temporarily. Remember that it served that Role for around a Decade, from 2005 when the PAF retired its F-5 Freedom Fighter Aircraft until 2015, when the first FA-50PH Aircraft started its Service in the Philippines. 

The last time I checked a Year or so ago, there were only no more than five S-211s in Service with the PAF. We actually have the A-29B Super Tucano that can also serve the Maritime Patrol Role, but they may already be doing that, and of course the S-211 is faster in Terms of Speed. 

This is why I think we really should pick a good, more Combat-capable replacement for the S-211 because there are times like these when the FA-50PH are grounded, and they end up picking the role in their Place. 

The S-211 Replacement could also serve as Force Multipliers, serving as supplementary Combat Aircraft in times of War.  

Here is the Link to the News Article at the “Daily Tribune” Website: https://tribune.net.ph/2025/03/05/pafs-remaining-s-211-jets-to-be-used-for-maritime-patrols

SOURCE: PAF’s remaining S-211 Jets to be used for Maritime Patrols {Archived Link}

December 16, 2024: PAF donates decommissioned S-211 Aircraft to a Barangay in Pasay

The Philippine Air Force (PAF) recently donated one of their decommissioned S-211 Aircraft to Barangay 183 of Pasay City. The Aircraft is now mounted on a Pedestal on an Area near the Ninoy Aquino International Airport (NAIA) Terminal 3, and I think that if you pass by that Area below the NAIA Expressway (NAIAEx), you will be able to see it. 

The S-211 with the Tail Number 814 previously operated with the 5th Fighter Wing of the Air Defense Command (ADC) of the PAF, and served as a Trainer Aircraft, and participated in Air Defense Exercises and Counter Insurgency Operations (COIN). 

The S-211 is of course newer, and not to take anything away from it, but I wonder why the Barangay didn't get the older but more potent Aircraft, like the F-5A/B Freedom Fighter, for example, or even the F-86 Sabre Aircraft. 

Here is the Link to the Post containing the original Pictures at the PAF Facebook Page: https://web.facebook.com/piopaf/posts/pfbid09zjo1DDrEtQGtCgsJ7WQnZE76dnvspQrRGpJSH3niA5Bz3e4ZVpkTFbACHkGbSoBl

SOURCE: Philippine Air Force Facebook Page Post, 12/16/24 – 1311H {Archived Link}

China targets Philippines with new Hypersonic-Nuclear Missile-armed Submarines due to Typhon Systems

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The "South China Morning Post (SCMP)" recently wrote that the "Naval and Merchant Ships" Publication in China, which is owned by the "China State Shipbuilding Corporation", published a Report which said that a new class of Submarines is being built for the People's Liberation Army Navy (PLAN) of China which are equipped with Vertical Launch System (VLS) Cells. 

These VLS Cells can also be armed with Hypersonic Missiles which are "Nuclear-capable", meaning they can be armed with Nuclear Warheads also. And these new Subs and Missiles seem to be aimed at the deployment of the Typhon Mid-Range Capability (MRC) System of the United States (US) in the Philippines since the Report specifically mentioned it. 

Philippines reportedly unhappy about delayed Delivery of Defense Materials from Israel

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The Israeli News Organization "Globes" recently published an Article written by Dan Shmuel Elmas about how the Philippine Government reportedly was upset about the Delays on the Delivery of the Defense Equipment it bought from Israel because of the Israeli Government's Policy of prioritizing their Military first before Exports, especially during times of War. 

Two Senior Defense Executives anonymously told Elmas about how Israel's Ministry of Defense told the Israeli Defense Companies to divert their Supplies for the Production of Military Equipment and Weapons to those that are being made for the Israeli Armed Forces, instead of those that are for Export due to the ongoing War in Gaza. 

PAF C-130 Hercules News

February 5, 2025: PAF C-130 Hercules Aircraft restored to Full Operational Status after 4 Months of Maintenance

A C-130 Hercules Transport Aircraft of the Philippine Air Force (PAF) was restored back to Full Operational Status recently after being sidelined for four Months as “Critical Structure Maintenance Procedures” were conducted on it. A Blessing and Turnover Ceremony was later conducted for the Aircraft in Clark Air Base in Pampanga to mark the Event.

SOURCES: 

* Air Logistics Command, Philippine Air Force Facebook Page Post, 02/05/25 – 2029H {Archived Link} 

* PH Air Force restores to service C-130 Cargo Plane {Archived Link}

September 15, 2024: PAF C-130 Aircraft transports Food Packs to help Batanes Residents

A C-130 Hercules Transport Aircraft of the Philippine Air Force (PAF) recently transported over 800 Family Food Packs to Residents who were severely affected by the strong South West Monsoon (which in Filipino is called the "Habagat") in Batanes in the North, the Archipelagic Province that is closest to Taiwan and which Taiwan is also claiming as their own, but which the Philippine Government is ignoring because the United States (US) doesn't want the Philippines to fight Taiwan or any other Country except China.

Personnel from various Government Agencies there then helped unload the Packs and prepare them for distribution to the Batanes Residents. By the Way, I thought the Enhanced Defense Cooperation Agreement (EDCA) that were provided to the US were so they can help us better in Terms of Disaster Response? 

If so, how come is that the US Military Personnel has been “Missing in Action (MIA)” in Terms of such Response in the Natural Disasters that has happened in the last several Months now? 

Here is the Link to the Post on the PAF Facebook Page which contains the original Pictures: https://web.facebook.com/piopaf/posts/pfbid05JD1FmuDAaziu9MXugdQevQmEa54CeEzoCu3hVKe7cm3iKDthiiCQZnBm2vsXmjXl

SOURCE: Philippine Air Force Facebook Page Post, 09/15/24 – 1529H {Archived Link}

First PN OPV to be delivered in Q1 of 2026, OPVs to use Naval Shield Baseline 4 CMS

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The South Korean Company "Hanwha Systems" recently gave an exclusive Interview to the prestigious Defense Publication "Jane's" where they gave some important updates about the Offshore Patrol Vessels (OPV) that South Korea (SK) is currently building for the Philippine Navy (PN). 

They said that the first of six of these OPVs will be delivered to the Philippines on the first Quarter of next Year of 2026. They also said that these OPVs will be using the latest Version of their Naval Shield Combat Management System (CMS), the Baseline 4. 

BRP Antonio Luna (FF-151) Guided Missile Frigate News

December 17, 2024: Just some of the latest Pictures of the BRP Luna Frigate

Just an intriguing look at one of the .50 caliber Heavy Machine Gun (HMG) Mounts on the BRP Antonio Luna (FF-151) Guided Missile Frigate of the Philippine Navy (PN). And of course another Look at the Launch Canisters of the Main Weapon of the Vessel, the C-Star Anti-Ship Missile (AshM). 

These Pictures were taken during the visit to the Ship last Month of December 2024 while docked in Zambales of Retired Vice Admiral Jesus C. Millan, the 34th Flag Officer in Command (FOIC) on the PN. 

Here is the Link containing the original Pictures to the Post of the “BRP Antonio Luna FF151 – PF” Facebook Page: https://web.facebook.com/kaTonying151/posts/pfbid0gqPxojfDTY2jChydN9vg7RhXDYXfCnrWpuBunBgoTactXmPxWcQ5kEybmQ5ziVeWl 

SOURCE: BRP Antonio Luna FF151 – PF Facebook Page Post, 12/17/24 – 1744H {Archived Link}

June 7, 2024: New Pics of the C-Star and Simbad-RC on the BRP Luna

Just some nice, new Pictures of the BRP Antonio Luna (FF-151), a Jose Rizal class Guided Missile Frigate of the Philippine Navy (PN) as it conducted a Training for its Crew for its Naval Shield Combat Management System (CMS). 

Among those shown in the Pictures were the C-Star Anti-Ship Missile Launchers, Simbad-RC Surface to Air Missile (SAM) System and one of the Large Screen Monitors being used on the Ship

Here is the Link to the Post on the BRP Antonio Luna (FF-151) Facebook Page containing the original Pictures: https://web.facebook.com/kaTonying151/posts/pfbid02MvhBrEkAS7TkghkmGJnZxDQYukPp79yMoT7uVK4nxChZR69q39DzB5E6KPLiBBszl

SOURCE: BRP Antonio Luna FF151 – PF Facebook Page Post, 06/07/24 – 1725H {Archived Link}

Chinese Military Forces will greatly outnumber US Forces in Asia by 2027 – US General

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The Commander of the 412th Test Wing of the United States Air Force (USAF), Brigadier General Doug Wickert recently said in a Speech that Chinese Military Forces will vastly outnumber soon those of the United States (US) on the Area that is West of the International Date Line. 

Wickert said that by 2027, the People's Liberation Army Air Force (PLAAF) of China will outnumber US Forces 12 to 1 in Modern Fighter Aircraft, including 5 to 3 in fifth Generation Aircraft and 3 to 1 in Maritime Patrol Aircraft. 

Philippine Army (PA) News

January 9, 2025: PA reveals their Wish List for their Modernization

The Spokesperson of the Philippine Army (PA), Colonel Louie Dema-ala recently revealed to the Press their "Wish List" for their Modernization, and these are what he said:

- Long Range Artillery

- Armored Vehicles

- Infantry Equipment

- Multiple Launch Rocket System 

- Chemical, Biological, Radiological and Nuclear (CBRN) Protection Equipment

- Air Defense Systems

This is a nice List, but I wonder if they will get all or even most of it because even though the Government of Bong Bong Marcos (BBM) approved to buy up to Php 2 trillion worth of Equipment for the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP), it has not been providing the funding for it. 

Php 2 trillion for the AFP Modernization in ten Years means spending an average of Php 200 billion per Year, and yet as I posted about recently, the Budget for that given for this Year of 2025 was only Php 35 billion, which is not a big Difference from what former President Rodrigo Duterte was providing, and certainly very far from Php 200 billion.

Here is the Link to the Article at the “Philippine News Agency (PNA)” Website: https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1241370 

SOURCE: Modern Equipment to boost Army's Territorial Defense Power {Archived Link}

December 17, 2024: SK Company to provide 137,000 Uniforms to the PA for Usd 6.9 million

The South Korean Company "Hancom Lifecare" recently announced that they have just won a Contract to supply Military Uniforms to the Philippine Army (PA) worth Krw 10 billion, or approximately United States (US) Dollar 6.9 million assuming an Exchange Rate of Krw 1,436 per Dollar. 

The Contract will be for 137,000 Sets of Uniforms consisting of Tops, Bottoms and Hats which they will be partnering with Philippine Companies to deliver them by June of next Year of 2025. This brings the approximate cost per Set to around Usd 50. 

A quick look at their Website shows that Hancom Lifecare specializes in providing Firefighting Uniforms, and I am not sure if they have experience before in providing Military Uniforms. Hopefully the Uniforms at least will have some good Fire Retardant Properties. 

I'm also not sure if this acquisition falls now under the new Procurement Law that was signed into Law several Months ago. 

SOURCES:

* Hancom Lifecare supplies ₩10 billion worth of Military Uniforms to Philippine Army {Archived Link}

* Hancom Lifecare Official Website {Archived Link}

PAF A-29B Super Tucano News

December 16, 2024: PAF A-29 Super Tucanos at Clark Air Base

Just some of the latest Pictures of the A-29B Super Tucano Light Attack Aircraft of the Philippine Air Force (PAF) at the Clark Air Base in Pampanga during a Joint Exercise with a particular Western Country which does nothing but interfere in the Philippines’ Affairs so they can keep enslaving it and protect their Interests here. 

The Super Tucanos also conducted Surface Attack Exercises at the Crow Valley Gunnery Range at the Colonel Ernesto Ravena Air Base (CERAB) in Tarlac to sharpen their Precision and Effectiveness during Close Air Support (CAS) Operations.

Here is the Link to the Post containing the original Pictures at the PAF's Facebook Page: https://web.facebook.com/piopaf/posts/pfbid02dgaCjfJDhn1ZigvARBf6u7WwLZWJ8QteZ99pwdiBDoLd631QbTHcUjcMJ5h4QWTHl 

SOURCE: Philippine Air Force Facebook Page Post, 12/16/24 – 1902H {Archived Link}

August 23, 2024: Brig. Gen. Dionisio tries out the A-29B Super Tucano BATD at the 15SW

Brigadier General Roman Dionisio, the current Deputy Commander for Internal Defense Operations of the Western Command (WESCOM) of the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) recently made a Testimonial Visit to the 15th Strike Wing (15SW) of the Philippine Air Force (PAF) and got to try out the Basic Air Training Device (BATD) of the Wing for their A-29B Super Tucano Aircraft. 

Brig. Gen. Dionisio was also a former Combat Pilot of the Unit and flew the MD-520MG Light Attack Helicopter. 

Here is the Link to the Post on the Facebook Page of the 15th Strike Wing containing the original Picture: https://web.facebook.com/PAO15thStrikeWing/posts/pfbid022XyviwyYnp4K2i6jZic3tdAuNRpXKdtZWu9RProWtsvWRDNfaFbzwYdZ4Um6KtzWl

SOURCE: 15th Strike Wing Facebook Page Post, 08/23/14 – 1250H {Archived Link}