Japan to Export Used Navy Destroyers to Philippines Amid Rising Tensions

In a strategic move to bolster maritime security and deter China's increasing influence in the region, Japan is set to export six used Abukuma-class destroyer escorts to the Philippines. This initiative was reported by the Yomiuri Shimbun on July 6, 2025, and marks a significant step in the defense relationship between the two nations, both of which are allies of the United States.

The decision to proceed with the destroyer export was finalized during a meeting between Japanese Defense Minister Gen Nakatani and his Philippine counterpart Gilberto Teodoro last month in Singapore. According to the Philippine Navy, a delegation of naval experts is scheduled to inspect the destroyers this summer, following an official invitation from Japan’s Ministry of Defense. "The outcome of this inspection will guide further deliberations on the potential acquisition and its alignment with the Philippine Navy's modernization efforts," the Philippine Navy stated in a press release.

This export plan comes amid escalating tensions in the South China Sea and the East China Sea, areas where both Japan and the Philippines have reported challenges posed by China's assertive maritime actions. The Philippines has previously expressed concerns over China's expansive territorial claims, which have led to confrontations with Filipino fishermen and military vessels.

The Abukuma-class destroyer escorts, which have been in service with the Japan Maritime Self-Defense Force for over three decades, are relatively small vessels with a standard displacement of approximately 2,000 tons. They are equipped with anti-submarine and anti-ship missiles, as well as torpedo tubes and guns, making them suitable for patrolling the waters of Southeast Asia. According to a Japanese navy website, each ship operates with a crew of about 120.

The Philippines currently lacks destroyers, relying instead on frigates and corvettes—typically smaller vessels with lighter armaments. The acquisition of these destroyers is expected to enhance the Philippine Navy's capabilities significantly.

In a broader context, the move is indicative of a strengthening strategic partnership between Japan and the Philippines, particularly in military cooperation. Last year, both countries signed a reciprocal access agreement, which facilitates the deployment of forces on each other's territories, a first for Japan in Asia. This agreement has been complemented by joint military exercises and the provision of radar aid from Japan to the Philippines.

To navigate Japan's pacifist constitution and the restrictions on military equipment exports, Tokyo plans to classify the installation of equipment and communication systems requested by Manila as part of a joint development project, further solidifying the defense ties between the two nations.

However, the proposed export has not been without controversy. Critics have raised concerns regarding the potential escalation of military tensions in the region and the implications for local maritime security dynamics. Furthermore, a spokesperson from Japan's Ministry of Defense declined to comment on the specifics of the report, and China's Foreign Ministry has not yet responded to inquiries regarding the situation.

As Japan and the Philippines pursue closer military collaboration in the face of shared security challenges, the outcomes of these developments will be closely monitored by regional stakeholders and international observers alike.