Japan’s unprecedented proposal to transfer six Abukuma-class destroyer escorts to the Philippine Navy could greatly boost the Southeast Asian nation’s anti-submarine capabilities – but the true value of these ageing vessels remains to be seen.
The Philippines has confirmed it is preparing to dispatch a team to Japan for a visual inspection of the six warships, which were set to be decommissioned, following an official invitation from Japan’s Ministry of Defence.
“This planned inspection forms part of exploratory discussions on the possible transfer of these naval assets,” said Captain John Percie Alcos, director of the navy’s public affairs office. He described the vessels as being “known for their reliability and versatility” and said their capabilities aligned with the navy’s operational requirements “in protecting the country’s maritime domains”.
Security analysts say the addition of these warships could reinforce Manila’s role as a security actor in the contested South China Sea, but caution that a careful assessment of maintenance costs, spare parts, system upgrades and the need for trained personnel will be required.
“This is an important test bed for how Japan transfers capability to a regional partner,” said Alessio Patalano, professor of war and strategy in East Asia at King’s College London.
Japanese Defence Minister Gen Nakatani (centre) at Naval Station Ernesto Ogbinar in San Fernando City, the Philippines, in February. Photo: Reuters
He said the offer reflected Tokyo’s view of the Philippines as an increasingly strategic partner, not only in political and economic terms but also within emerging regional security frameworks designed to uphold maritime stability, such as so-called minilaterals.
