The Philippine Navy has formally taken delivery of the lead Rajah Sulayman-class offshore patrol vessel from South Korea under a contract signed in 2022.
Designated BRP Rajah Sulayman (PS-20), the ship is the first of six next-generation OPVs being constructed by HD Hyundai Heavy Industries. The class is intended to replace the Navy’s aging offshore patrol fleet while enhancing maritime security, counter-piracy, and surveillance operations across the Philippines’ exclusive economic zone.
The handover ceremony was conducted in Zambales, where the vessel will undergo final acceptance trials and pre-commissioning activities ahead of its formal induction into service in the first quarter of 2026.
Construction of the remaining Rajah Sulayman-class vessels is progressing at various stages, with deliveries scheduled to continue through 2028.
Measuring 94 meters in length, the OPV can accommodate up to 70 personnel and is equipped to operate three rigid-hull inflatable boats as well as a helicopter.
Propulsion is provided by two MTU-STX diesel engines, giving the ship a maximum speed of 22 knots, an operational range of 5,500 nautical miles, and an endurance of up to 30 days at sea.
The platform is fitted with a comprehensive suite of navigation and situational awareness systems, including multiple sensors, identification friend or foe (IFF), electronic warfare countermeasures, and an integrated combat management system.
Armament includes a 76-millimeter automatic gun, 30-millimeter secondary cannons, and 12.7-millimeter machine guns, providing the vessel with credible firepower against a range of maritime threats.
Once commissioned, the Rajah Sulayman-class OPVs are expected to operate alongside the Rizal-class frigates and Malvar-class corvettes, both of which were also developed through defense cooperation with South Korea and Hyundai.
