Philippines Plans Submarine Acquisition to Strengthen Defense Against China

The Southeast Asian nation aims to modernize its military with submarines and missiles as Chinese maritime activity increases in disputed waters.

The Philippines has announced plans to acquire at least two submarines to bolster its naval capabilities and defend its extensive archipelagic territory.
General Romeo Brawner Jr., Chief of Staff of the Armed Forces of the Philippines, highlighted the rising presence of Chinese vessels—averaging 286 daily—in the nation's exclusive economic zone.
The submarine program is part of a broader $35 billion modernization effort, which also includes additional BrahMos missiles from India and other military assets.
France's Naval Group and South Korea's Hanwha Ocean are leading contenders to supply the submarines, with financing and domestic maintenance packages proposed by both nations.
The Philippines' defense strategy reflects growing regional tensions in the South China Sea, where China asserts sweeping territorial claims contested by neighboring countries.