The Philippine Navy has formally accepted BRP Rajah Sulayman (PS-20), the lead ship of its new Rajah Sulayman-class offshore patrol vessels, marking a key milestone in the modernization of Manila’s maritime security fleet. Built by HD Hyundai Heavy Industries of South Korea, the vessel is part of a 2022 procurement contract aimed at replacing aging patrol platforms and strengthening presence across the Philippines’ vast exclusive economic zone.
The handover ceremony took place in Zambales, where the ship will undergo final acceptance trials and pre-commissioning activities before entering active service in the first quarter of 2026. BRP Rajah Sulayman is the first of six next-generation OPVs, with remaining hulls currently under construction and scheduled for delivery through 2028.
Measuring 94 meters in length, the Rajah Sulayman-class OPV can embark up to 70 personnel, operate three rigid-hull inflatable boats, and support helicopter operations. Powered by twin MTU-STX diesel engines, the vessel achieves a top speed of 22 knots, a range of 5,500 nautical miles, and endurance of up to 30 days, making it well-suited for extended patrol missions.
The ship is equipped with a 76-millimeter main gun, 30-millimeter secondary cannons, and 12.7-millimeter machine guns, supported by a modern combat management system, electronic warfare countermeasures, IFF, and advanced sensors. Once fully commissioned, the Rajah Sulayman-class OPVs will operate alongside the Rizal-class frigates and Malvar-class corvettes, further deepening Philippines–South Korea naval cooperation.
