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South Korea-made BRP Rajah Sulayman patrol vessel launched as Philippine Navy boosts modernization
- 13 Jun, 2025 - 14:35
- Naval News Navy 2025
According to information published by the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) on June 11, 2025, the BRP Rajah Sulayman (PS-20), the first of six new Offshore Patrol Vessels (OPVs) ordered from South Korea’s HD Hyundai Heavy Industries (HHI), was officially launched at the company’s shipyard in Ulsan. This significant milestone highlights the Philippine Navy’s accelerating fleet modernization and deepening defense cooperation with South Korea, reflecting a strategic emphasis on maritime security and national defense readiness.
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The BRP Rajah Sulayman offshore patrol vessel was officially launched at HD Hyundai Heavy Industries shipyard in Ulsan, South Korea, on June 11, 2025, marking a key milestone in the Philippine Navy's fleet modernization program. (Picture source: MaxDefense Philippines Facebook)
The acquisition of these six OPVs stems from a PHP30 billion contract signed in 2022 under the Horizon 2 phase of the Revised AFP Modernization Program. HD Hyundai’s design was selected for its advanced systems, endurance, and modularity tailored to the archipelagic operations of the Philippines. These vessels will enhance the Navy’s maritime patrol, surveillance, and interdiction capabilities across its vast territorial waters and exclusive economic zone, particularly in the increasingly contested West Philippine Sea.
The BRP Rajah Sulayman measures 94 meters in length with a beam of 14.3 meters and a displacement of approximately 2,400 tons. It is powered by dual diesel engines allowing a top speed of 22 knots and an operational range exceeding 5,500 nautical miles. The vessel is equipped with a 76mm main gun, remote-controlled weapon stations, and has provisions for future integration of missile systems. Its aviation facilities support helicopter operations and unmanned aerial systems, while two RHIBs housed at the stern provide boarding and rescue capability. The vessel’s electronics include a modern combat management system, surface search radar, electronic support measures, and integrated navigation and communication systems, offering enhanced situational awareness and mission flexibility.
South Korea has been a critical partner in the Philippines’ naval development. Prior to this OPV program, HD Hyundai also delivered two Jose Rizal-class guided missile frigates, BRP Jose Rizal (FF-150) and BRP Antonio Luna (FF-151), in 2020 and 2021. These 2,600-ton frigates serve as the Navy’s most capable surface combatants, featuring 76mm and 30mm guns, anti-ship missiles, torpedo launchers, and advanced radar and sonar systems. Designed for multi-role operations, they play a central role in maritime defense and regional cooperation. Additionally, South Korea donated the BRP Conrado Yap (PS-39), a refurbished Pohang-class corvette delivered in 2019, which significantly enhanced the Navy’s anti-submarine warfare capabilities and training standards.
The launch of BRP Rajah Sulayman is a key milestone in the Philippine Navy’s broader modernization roadmap, driven by the Revised AFP Modernization Program. Structured in three phases, this program aims to transform the country’s armed forces into a fully capable territorial defense institution by 2028. Horizon 1, concluded in 2017, focused on basic force readiness. Horizon 2, now ongoing, emphasizes capability development through the acquisition of combat aircraft, advanced naval vessels, and missile systems. Horizon 3, expected to begin in 2026, will consolidate advanced technologies such as submarines, integrated command and control networks, and long-range missile platforms. The end goal is to achieve credible defense capabilities and greater interoperability with allied forces.
