Japan is preparing to export six decommissioned Abukuma-class destroyer escorts to the Philippines, marking a significant milestone in defense cooperation between the two nations, according to a report from Yomiuri Shimbun.
Citing multiple Japanese government sources, the report stated that the agreement was confirmed during a meeting in Singapore last June between Japanese Defense Minister Gen Nakatani and Philippine Defense Secretary Gilberto Teodoro.
The ships, originally commissioned between 1989 and 1993, are part of Japan’s general-purpose fleet designed primarily for anti-submarine and anti-surface warfare. Each vessel weighs approximately 2,550 tons. Due to a shortage of naval personnel, Japan is phasing out these older models in favor of more automated, crew-efficient ships.
If finalized, this will be Japan’s first export of such warships. The move aims to enhance interoperability between the Philippine Navy and Japan’s Maritime Self-Defense Force (JMSDF), while strengthening their joint deterrent posture in response to China’s expanding maritime presence in the South China Sea.
The Philippine military is scheduled to inspect the ships this summer to assess the condition of their main weaponry and systems before the transfer proceeds.
As part of its modernization efforts, the Philippine Navy has been acquiring advanced naval assets, including frigates and corvettes from South Korea and missile boats from Israel. The fleet currently operates a mix of new acquisitions and older vessels sourced from allies like the U.S. and the U.K.
According to the UK’s Military Balance 2025, the Chinese Navy boasts 102 surface combat ships, while the Philippines has only two guided missile frigates.
Japan’s defense export laws—under the Three Principles on Transfer of Defense Equipment—typically restrict exports to non-offensive systems such as surveillance or rescue vessels. To proceed with this transfer, modifications to the warships’ weapon systems or co-development with a third party may be necessary.
This development coincides with a deepening of Japan-Philippines security ties. Recent months have seen the ratification of the Acquisition and Cross-Servicing Agreement (ACSA) and a Security of Information Agreement. These deals enable joint military exercises and intelligence sharing, further solidifying the two nations’ strategic partnership.