Russian Submarine Stirs Tensions in South China Sea, Philippines Respond with Force

A cutting-edge Russian attack submarine was recently detected in the South China Sea near the Philippines, prompting the Philippine military to initiate tracking operations. Local media reported on Monday that the Russian Navy’s Kilo-class attack submarine, UFA, was first spotted approximately 148 kilometers (80 nautical miles) west of Occidental Mindoro in the central Philippines late last month. The submarine reportedly moved slowly northward over the weekend, eventually exiting Philippine territorial waters. The Philippine Navy swiftly deployed the frigate BRP Jose Rizal and aircraft to monitor the UFA’s movements. A Navy spokesperson stated that the UFA crew awaited improved weather conditions before continuing their journey to Vladivostok, Russia. Philippine President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. expressed significant concern over the Russian submarine’s presence in the South China Sea.

The UFA, commissioned in November 2022, boasts advanced stealth technology. This submarine is capable of launching Kalibr cruise missiles, a weapon frequently employed by Russia in its ongoing conflict with Ukraine. The vessel had recently made port calls in Malaysia and Thailand before reportedly conducting operations in the South China Sea.

The Russian Navy has been actively strengthening ties with Southeast Asian nations. Through activities such as joint exercises with Indonesia last month, Moscow is expanding its influence in the South China Sea region. In July, Russian naval forces conducted joint maritime drills with the Chinese Navy.

Concurrently, reports indicate that a U.S. aircraft carrier strike group is also operating in the South China Sea, further intensifying military tensions in the area. As military activities from various nations, including Russia and China, become increasingly prevalent in Southeast Asian waters, the international community is closely monitoring these developments.