SUBIC BAY, Zambales — The Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) has taken delivery of four Ocean Aero Triton autonomous underwater and surface vehicles to expand the country’s ability to monitor Philippine waters and respond to illegal maritime activities, according to the US Embassy in the Philippines.
The embassy said that the Triton AUSVs, valued at approximately P754 million, or $13 million, were transferred by the United States government on June 22. The systems are part of US support for the US-Philippines Alliance and efforts to maintain a free and open Indo-Pacific.
Extended reach above and below the surface
The Triton platforms are designed to operate both on the surface and underwater. They collect data and transmit it through a resilient mesh network, giving the Philippine Navy information over wide areas for extended periods without relying solely on manned ships or aircraft.
Each vehicle is solar-powered and can stay on station for up to 30 days. That endurance is intended to provide persistent coverage in critical waterways, and support tactical and operational decision-making.
US officials said the transfer addresses gaps in long-endurance maritime awareness. In remarks on the delivery, US Embassy Chargé d’Affaires, a.i., Bridgette Walker said the systems expand the Philippine Navy’s reach into areas difficult to cover with traditional assets alone.
She cited illegal fishing, gray zone activities and threats to freedom of navigation as maritime challenges that require continuous monitoring.
US Embassy senior defense official and Joint US Military Assistance Group-Philippines chief Col. Daniel Oh described the delivery as part of aligned investments, training and shared standards between the two countries.
He said the unmanned capabilities support the AFP’s shift toward territorial defense and improve awareness in key sea lanes. The next phase, he noted, will focus on integrating the new platforms into Philippine employment and sustainment concepts.
Intended operational use
According to the US Embassy in Manila, the Triton AUSVs are intended to enhance the Philippine Navy’s capacity to detect and respond to illegal fishing, gray zone activities and other threats to freedom of navigation.
The systems gather data above and below the surface, contributing to maritime domain awareness in areas that are hard to patrol with surface ships or aircraft alone.
Philippine Fleet commander RAdm. Joe Anthony Cabahug-Orbe and Philippine Navy Unmanned Surface Vessel Unit acting commander LCdr. Aldwin Pasicolan received the systems at Naval Operating Base Subic.
The AFP said the four Triton vehicles add to ongoing security sector assistance aimed at modernizing capabilities for maritime monitoring and response.
The US and the Philippines characterized the cooperation as part of an alliance anchored on shared history, common values, and commitment to a free and open Indo-Pacific.
LEANDER DOMINGO