Hyundai to launch first Philippine frigate in May

A scale model of the Hyundai HDF-2600 frigate, which is where the Jose Rizal-class frigate was based on. Photo c/o Wikipedia. 


South Korean shipbuilder Hyundai Heavy Industries (HHI) is scheduled to launch the first of the Jose Rizal-class frigates for the Philippine Navy (PN), the BRP Jose Rizal on May 2019.

This was confirmed by the Philippine Navy’s Flag Officer in Command, Vice Admiral Robert Empedrad during an interview with the local military-owned radio network. 

Vice Adm. Empedrad also confirmed that Defense Sec. Delfin Lorenzana will join him in the launching ceremonies, which is scheduled sometime between 17 and 19 of May 2019. Immediately after the launch of BRP Jose Rizal, HHI will also proceed with the keel laying ceremonies for the second ship of the class, the BRP Antonio Luna.

The PN expects the delivery of BRP Jose Rizal by the first half of 2020, with the BRP Antonio Luna following 6 months later.

The Jose Rizal-class was derived from HHI’s FFX-I Incheon-class frigates used by the Republic of Korea Navy (ROKN), called the HDF-2600. It displaces around 2,600 tons, is around 107 meters long, and will be the first major surface combatants of the PN armed with missiles.



[1] Philippine Daily Inquirer
[2] Naval Technology

Hyundai to launch first Philippine frigate in May Hyundai to launch first Philippine frigate in May Reviewed by Asia Pacific Defense Journal on March 13, 2019 Rating: 5

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