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Japan, Philippines Move Toward Transfer of Used Destroyers and Surveillance Aircraft

They plan joint inspections of the ships this summer under a framework meant to meet Japan’s pacifist export rules before the vessels are retired in 2027.

Japanese Defence Minister Gen Nakatani arrives at the Naval Station Ernesto Ogbinar, previously known as Wallace Air Station, in San Fernando City, La Union province, Philippines, February 23, 2025. REUTERS/Eloisa Lopez/File Photo
This undated photo provided by Japan Maritime Self-Defense Force shows an Abukuma-class destroyer escort.

Overview

  • Early-stage talks are underway to finalize how many Abukuma-class destroyers and TC-90 surveillance aircraft will be transferred.
  • Philippine naval officials will conduct joint visual inspections this summer to assess equipment and maintenance status.
  • Defense ministers Gen Nakatani and Gilberto Teodoro agreed to the transfer proposal during security discussions in Singapore in June.
  • The transfer plan classifies the installation of new systems as a joint development project to navigate Japan’s export restrictions.
  • Japan aims to complete deliveries of the retired ships and aircraft by 2027 to strengthen Manila’s maritime deterrence against China.