The Philippine Navy has officially entered its newest missile frigate, BRP Miguel Malvar (FFG-06), into final-stage Operational Readiness and Capability Tests (ORACT)—a rigorous trial phase assessing the ship’s real-world combat performance before entering active service.
This process evaluates the vessel and its crew across all combat domains, including anti-surface, anti-submarine, anti-air, and electronic warfare. It also scrutinizes crew readiness, system integration, and the application of naval tactics under stress conditions.
Built by South Korea’s HD Hyundai Heavy Industries, BRP Miguel Malvar is the first of two multi-role frigates under a PHP28 billion (~$495 million) defense agreement signed in 2021. Its sister ship, BRP Diego Silang (FFG-07), is scheduled for delivery by late 2025. Both vessels are core components of the Philippine Armed Forces Modernization Program’s Horizon 2 phase.
Compared to earlier Jose Rizal-class ships, the Miguel Malvar brings enhanced stealth, improved survivability, and a next-generation combat suite. It features a 76mm Super Rapid gun, C-Star anti-ship missiles, Blue Shark torpedoes, CIWS readiness, and vertical launch capabilities. It also supports helicopter operations and is powered by a CODAD propulsion system designed for quieter anti-submarine warfare patrols.
The deployment of this frigate represents the Philippines’ determination to evolve into a blue-water navy capable of safeguarding its vast maritime domain in the South China Sea. With increasing regional tensions and the need to assert control over contested waters, such advanced warships are vital for long-range patrols, joint naval exercises, and maritime security missions.
As BRP Miguel Malvar undergoes final testing, it prepares to join the operational ranks alongside BRP Jose Rizal and BRP Antonio Luna—forming a formidable surface fleet ready to address current and future maritime threats.
