Japan is preparing to transfer six retired warships to the Philippines, marking a significant step in strengthening defense ties between the two nations amid regional maritime tensions.
According to a report by Japanese newspaper Yomiuri Shimbun, Tokyo has agreed to export six Abukuma-class destroyer escorts to Manila. These general-purpose ships, originally commissioned between 1989 and 1993, were primarily designed for anti-submarine warfare. The transfer, if finalized, would be the first time Japan has exported such naval assets.
Japanese Defense Minister Gen Nakatani and Philippine Defense Secretary Gilberto Teodoro reportedly confirmed the deal during a meeting in Singapore last June. The vessels are being retired from the Japan Maritime Self-Defense Force due to aging and manpower constraints, with Tokyo opting for newer, more automated replacements.
Yomiuri cited unnamed Japanese government officials, adding that the Philippine military is scheduled to inspect the vessels this summer to assess their weapon systems, maintenance status, and overall condition in preparation for the transfer.
“If the export of these used destroyers is realized, it will be the first such case,” the report emphasized, noting that the move seeks to boost interoperability between the two forces and help deter aggressive maritime activities, particularly those by China in contested waters.
Currently, the Philippines is in the midst of modernizing its naval fleet, acquiring missile-equipped vessels from South Korea and Israel while still operating legacy ships from the United States and the United Kingdom.
As tensions rise in the South China Sea and West Philippine Sea, the disparity in naval power remains vast. The UK’s Military Balance 2025 report underscores this gap, with China having 102 surface combatants, including destroyers, compared to the Philippines’ two operational frigates.
Under Japan’s current export rules, destroyers with offensive capabilities are restricted. However, the ships may be modified or cleared for export if certain weapons systems are either removed or meet joint development criteria.
The warship deal follows a series of strengthened defense partnerships between Japan and the Philippines. Japan’s legislature recently ratified a reciprocal access agreement allowing Japanese troops to participate in military exercises in the Philippines. Earlier this year, both countries also signed the Acquisition and Cross-Servicing Agreement (ACSA) and a Security of Information Agreement to formalize their military cooperation.
