Russian Submarine in Philippine Waters Raises Concerns Over Maritime Security

The Philippine Navy monitored a Russian attack submarine in its exclusive economic zone, highlighting ongoing tensions in the South China Sea

A Russian Kilo-II class attack submarine, armed with Kalibr cruise missiles, was spotted 80 nautical miles off the Philippine coast last week.
The Philippine military deployed naval and air assets to monitor the submarine, which identified itself and stated it was en route to Vladivostok due to weather conditions.
President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. called the submarine's presence in the Philippine exclusive economic zone (EEZ) 'very worrisome,' emphasizing concerns over sovereignty and security.
The incident follows heightened maritime tensions in the South China Sea, where the Philippines faces increasing territorial challenges from China.
The submarine's passage occurred shortly after the Philippines enacted laws rejecting China's expansive sea boundary claims in the contested waters.