United States gives Philippines four underwater vehicles worth $13 million

FILE PHOTO: The Virginia-class attack submarine USS New Mexico (SSN 779), arrives at Portsmouth Naval Shipyard (PNSY) for a scheduled maintenance period, Feb. 21, 2026. (U.S. Navy photo by Neil Boorjian)

MANILA, June 23 (Reuters) - The U.S. government transferred four Ocean Aero Triton autonomous underwater and surface vehicles to the Philippine military in a transaction valued at $13 million, the U.S. Embassy in the Philippines said on Tuesday.

The embassy said in a statement that the delivery demonstrates the United States' commitment to the alliance and will enhance the Philippines' ability to detect and respond to maritime challenges.

"The delivery demonstrates how aligned investments, training, and shared standards translate into credible, ready capabilities that deter aggression and support regional stability," the embassy said.