Philippine Navy launches third Offshore Patrol Vessel in South Korea

The Philippine Navy has launched its third Offshore Patrol Vessel (OPV), the future BRP Rajah Humabon, in Ulsan, South Korea. The vessel is part of a contract for six OPVs ordered from South Korean shipbuilder HD Hyundai Heavy Industries in June 2022.

The 2,400-ton ship measures 94 meters in length and 14 meters in width, with a cruising speed of 15 knots and an operational range of 5,500 nautical miles. It is equipped with a 76-mm main naval gun, a 30-mm secondary gun, surveillance radar, electro-optical tracking equipment, and decoy launching systems. The vessel is scheduled for delivery in February 2027.

The launch ceremony was attended by Philippine Navy Flag-Officer-in-Command Vice Admiral Jose Ma. Ambrosio Ezpeleta and Armed Forces of the Philippines Vice Chief of Staff Lt. Gen. Rommel Roldan. This vessel follows the BRP Rajah Sulayman and BRP Rajah Lakandula, which have already entered service. The remaining three vessels in the order—to be named Sultan Kudarat, Datu Marikudo, and Datu Sikatuna—are expected to be delivered through 2028. The new ships are intended to enhance the Navy’s maritime surveillance, security, and territorial defense capabilities.