Manila: President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. moved a step closer to realizing the Philippines’ long-envisioned submarine capability, holding high-level talks with South Korean defense giant Hanwha Ocean on the sidelines of the 2025 Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) Summit here. The meeting centered on Hanwha’s comprehensive proposal to support the Philippine Navy’s submarine acquisition and operations, a key component of Marcos’ Self-Reliant Defense Posture (SRDP) agenda amid rising tensions in the West Philippine Sea.

According to Philippines News Agency, under the plan, Hanwha Ocean offered to assist in the construction of a dedicated submarine base, the establishment of a local maintenance, repair, and overhaul center, and the training of Filipino submarine operators and commanders using advanced simulators and integrated systems. The South Korean firm also outlined plans for the possible deployment of KSS-III PN submarines, vessels equipped with cutting-edge sonar, combat systems, and lithium-ion battery technology that allows longer underwater endurance and quieter operations.

If finalized, the partnership would mark a historic milestone for the Philippine Navy, which has long sought to acquire its first-ever submarine fleet. Hanwha’s proposal is also aligned with South Korea’s deepening defense cooperation with Manila, which includes the delivery of FA-50 fighter jets and naval assets over the past decade.

The meeting marks a major step in Manila’s aspiration to acquire undersea warfare capability, a move seen as vital to bolstering the country’s defense posture amid escalating maritime tensions in the West Philippine Sea.