A Russian attack submarine was detected off the coast of Occidental Mindoro in the West Philippine Sea, approximately 80 nautical miles west of Cape Calavite, according to the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) today, December 2, 2024.

The submarine, identified as UFA 490, was monitored by the Philippine Navy, which dispatched a warship and an aircraft to escort the vessel.

The Russian submarine reportedly stated it was waiting for better weather conditions before continuing its journey to Vladivostok, Russia.

The incident sent shockwaves to intelligence communities in Southeast Asia, particularly in the West Philippine Sea, a strategically critical region that has been the subject of territorial disputes between the Philippines, China, and other claimant countries.

President Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr. expressed worry over the presence of the Russian submarine, saying he would allow the military to handle the situation.

The Philippine Navy’s Rear Admiral Roy Vincent Trinidad confirmed that the Russian attack submarine was being monitored, and that the Philippine Navy had taken steps to ensure the security of the country’s territorial waters.

The detection of the Russian submarine comes amid increased naval activity in Asia Pacific, with several countries, including the United States, China, and Japan, conducting military exercises and patrols in the area.

The West Philippine Sea is a critical waterway that connects the South China Sea to the Pacific Ocean, and is an important route for international trade and commerce.

The area is also believed to be rich in natural resources, including oil, gas, and fisheries.

The Philippine government has been seeking to strengthen its military presence in WPS, particularly in the wake of China’s increasing assertiveness in the South China Sea.

Features photo courtesy of the Philippine Navy.