By Olawale Abaire, Warrior Editorial Fellow
In the face of persistent territorial tensions in the South China Sea, particularly with China, the Philippines is set to strengthen its maritime defenses. This enhancement will come in the form of five new patrol vessels for the Philippines Coast Guard, a development announced on May 17, 2024.
The funding for these vessels, which are 97-meter Multi-Role Response Vessels, will come from a loan of US$413 million from Japan. These vessels are to be constructed in Japan, as reported by China South Global Project. In addition to the loan, Japan will also provide extra funds to cover the costs of necessary support facilities.
The five 97-meter Multi-Role Response Vessels (MRRVs) are manufactured by the Mitsubishi Shipbuilding Company. These vessels will be used in maritime operations to address transnational crimes and are expected to be delivered between 2027 and 2028. The MRRVs will be among the largest and most modern in the Philippine Coast Guard’s (PCG) fleet. These vessels are crucial in the PCG’s regular maritime patrols and resupply missions to outposts in the Philippines’ exclusive economic zone.
The statement released by the Philippines, announcing the acquisition of these Japanese-made vessels, stated that they would be deployed in “maritime operations to tackle transnational crimes.” The Philippine Coast Guard’s (PCG) fleet is currently bolstered by only two Multi-Role Response Vessels (MRRVs). However, the need for enhanced maritime capabilities is pressing, given the recent damage to several patrol vessels in incidents in the South China Sea. The upcoming fleet modernization program presents an opportune moment for the PCG to upgrade its capabilities. In support of this endeavor, the Pentagon and State Department have funded the $950,000 Fleet Maintenance and Repair Group Workshop. This initiative aims to empower the Philippines to conduct more sustained and reliable vessel operations at sea.
The MRRVs, with their multi-role design, offer a versatile capability set, enabling the PCG to respond effectively to various maritime challenges. In comparison to traditional patrol vessels, MRRVs boast enhanced features, including:
- Improved speed and maneuverability
- Advanced sensors and surveillance systems
- Enhanced communication and coordination capabilities
- Increased cargo and passenger capacity
The Fleet Maintenance and Repair Group Workshop is a critical component of the PCG’s fleet modernization program. This initiative will provide the necessary training and resources for the PCG to conduct continuous and reliable vessel operations, ensuring that their fleet remains operational and effective in the face of emerging challenges.
Over the past year, the diplomatic ties between China and Philippines have been strained due to an increase in confrontations between coast guard vessels and private fishing boats in the South China Sea. The Scarborough Shoal, where a Philippine military installation is located, has been a hotbed for conflict in recent times.
The expansion of the Philippines’ coast guard fleet with five patrol ships from Japan marks a significant step in the country’s efforts to strengthen its maritime capabilities. As emerging threats and technological advancements continue to shape the maritime security landscape, the Philippines’ move to expand its coast guard fleet underscores its commitment to safeguarding its territorial waters and addressing transnational crimes. Looking forward, the PCG’s modernization and expansion efforts are expected to play a crucial role in enhancing maritime safety in the Philippines and contributing to regional maritime stability.
