Jose Rizal-class

The Frigate Acquisition Project was initiated in May 2013 to modernize the Philippine Navy’s surface fleet. The program moved away from the procurement of used Italian platforms in favor of two brand-new, purpose-built frigates. The acquisition process was structured around a two-stage bidding system and eventually split into two lots to separate the platform construction from the procurement of munitions. Following the approval of detailed design drawings, construction of the first vessel began in early 2018.

These multi-role guided-missile frigates are built with high-tensile metal hulls utilizing a combined transverse-longitudinal framing system designed to survive high sea states. The propulsion system follows a combined diesel and diesel arrangement. The vessels are equipped with an integrated combat management system that links a phased array C-band radar, identification friend or foe systems, and a medium-frequency active/passive hull-mounted sonar. For offensive operations, the platform carries anti-ship cruise missiles, anti-aircraft missile launchers, and triple torpedo launching systems. Surface defense is managed via a dual-purpose rapid-fire main gun, a remote weapon station, and heavy machine guns. The design incorporates a Collective Protection System against CBRNE threats and features a flight deck and hangar for multi-role naval helicopters equipped with dipping sonar and missiles. Certain advanced capabilities, such as vertical launch systems and towed array sonars, were initially omitted but categorized for future integration.

The class is operated by the Philippine Navy’s Offshore Combat Force to fulfill territorial defense mandates. Since commissioning, the vessels have been deployed for international maritime exercises, including RIMPAC, and have conducted sea trials to validate their weapons and sensor suites. In addition to primary military functions, these ships have been used for the strategic transport of medical supplies. A planned upgrade project is scheduled to begin in 2026 to install and integrate close-in weapon systems and towed array sonar systems, addressing features that were omitted during the initial construction phase.