ULSAN, South Korea — The Philippine Navy (PN) reached another significant milestone in its modernization program with the official steel-cutting ceremony for its new guided-missile frigate, held at the HD Hyundai Heavy Industries (HD HHI) Shipyard in Ulsan, South Korea, on November 4, 2026.

The event officially marks the commencement of construction for the first of two additional guided-missile frigates that will bolster the Philippines’ archipelagic defense capabilities. Built by HD HHI, the new 3,200-ton frigate is patterned after the hull design of the Miguel Malvar-class frigates — making it the third ship of its class in the PN fleet. This design consistency ensures seamless fleet interoperability, maintenance efficiency, and streamlined crew training across current and future platforms.

The steel-cutting ceremony is a major shipbuilding milestone that signifies the initial cut of steel and the formal start of production activities. Delivery of the first frigate is scheduled for 2029.

The start of construction for the new PN frigate resonates with the Philippine Navy’s continuing commitment to building a modern and dynamic fleet, expanding strategic partnerships, and enhancing its capabilities to protect the country’s maritime interests and uphold national sovereignty in service of the Filipino people. (Philippine Navy Press Release)

TOP 📸: Philippine Navy personnel and HD Hyundai Heavy Industries (HD HHI) officials pose for a photo opportunity following the steel-cutting ceremony for the PN’s new guided-missile frigate at the HD HHI Shipyard in Ulsan, South Korea.