Philippines discovers suspected Chinese Underwater Drone: military investigates potential security threat.

According to information published by Voice of America on January 2, 2025, Philippine authorities are investigating a suspected Chinese underwater drone found in the waters off the central Philippines, citing potential national security implications. The device, discovered by local fishermen on December 30, has been turned over to the Philippine Navy for further examination.
Follow Army Recognition on Google News at this link

A suspected Chinese underwater drone marked "HY-119" was discovered off the coast of Masbate, Philippines, sparking military investigations into its origin and purpose. (Picture source: Chinese TV)

According to a police report, three fishermen found the drone approximately nine kilometers (six miles) from the coast of San Pascual in Masbate Province. The device, marked with the code "HY-119," was floating on the water's surface when recovered. The yellow, torpedo-like drone measures about two meters (six feet) in length and is equipped with fin-like structures, an antenna, and a reconnaissance "eye" device, officials revealed.

Regional police chief Andre Dizon noted that open-source research identifies "HY-119" as a designation for Chinese underwater navigation and communication systems. While the drone was unarmed, authorities highlighted its potential national security implications.

The discovery comes amid long-standing maritime disputes between the Philippines and China over the South China Sea. China claims nearly the entire sea as its sovereign territory, dismissing the claims of other nations and ignoring international rulings that undermine its stance.

The drone’s presence could indicate China’s growing interest in the Philippine archipelago's waters. It could have been conducting seabed mapping operations, potentially preparing for submarine deployments in the region.

The incident has sparked renewed calls among Philippine lawmakers to bolster maritime defenses. Congressman Robert Ace Barbers urged the government to establish a new naval base in Surigao del Norte under the Enhanced Defense Cooperation Agreement (EDCA) with the United States. Barbers emphasized the strategic importance of the country's eastern seaboard and the need to counter foreign incursions. The region’s abundant resources, including deuterium and other minerals, could become targets for foreign intelligence operations.

The presence of the suspected Chinese drone raises broader questions about regional stability and maritime awareness. Experts stress the importance of enhancing underwater domain awareness to counter emerging threats. As investigations continue, the Philippine government faces mounting pressure to fortify its maritime security and safeguard its territorial waters amidst increasing tensions in the Indo-Pacific.