Japan is set to export six used Abukuma-class destroyers to the Philippines to strengthen its defense capabilities against China’s expanding maritime influence.
The export plan was confirmed by multiple unnamed government sources, with the ships being in service with the Japan Maritime Self-Defense Force for over 30 years.
The two countries’ defense ministers, Gen Nakatani of Japan and Gilberto Teodoro of the Philippines, agreed on the deal during a meeting in Singapore last month. The Philippine military is scheduled to inspect the destroyers this summer as part of the final preparations.
To comply with Japan’s pacifist policies, the export will be framed as a joint development project, allowing the installation of communication and other equipment requested by the Philippines. The Abukuma-class destroyers are small vessels with a standard displacement of 2,000 tons and a crew of around 120. They are equipped with anti-submarine and anti-ship missiles, torpedo tubes, and guns. Currently, the Philippine Navy does not operate destroyers but relies on smaller, lighter frigates and corvettes.
This move is part of a broader effort between Japan and the Philippines to counter China's growing assertiveness in the South and East China Seas. The two countries have been enhancing their military cooperation, which includes joint exercises, a radar aid package from Japan, and a strategic dialogue. In addition, they signed a reciprocal access agreement last year, allowing the deployment of forces on each other’s soil for the first time in Asia.
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