U.S Navy commander’s visit boosts submarine defense cooperation – PN

U.S Navy Commander (Submarine Group Seven) Rear Admiral Christopher Cavanaugh visits the Philippine Navy headquarters in Manila on Thursday, March 6, 2025. (Photo from Philippine Navy/INQUIRER.net)

U.S Navy Commander (Submarine Group Seven) Rear Admiral Christopher Cavanaugh pays a courtesy call on PN Flag Officer in Command Vice Admiral Jose Ma. Ambrosio Ezpeleta on Thursday, March 6, 2025 at the Philippine Navy headquarters in Manila. (Photo from Philippine Navy/Facebook)

MANILA, Philippines —  The Philippine Navy (PN) on Saturday said the visit of a U.S Navy commander highlighted efforts to boost the country’s submarine defense cooperation.

U.S Navy Commander (Submarine Group Seven) Rear Admiral Christopher Cavanaugh visited the country and paid a courtesy call on PN Flag Officer in Command Vice Admiral Jose Ma. Ambrosio Ezpeleta on Thursday at the PN’s headquarters in Manila.

“The meeting focused on enhancing bilateral cooperation, particularly in developing the Philippine Navy’s submarine capabilities. Both officials discussed ways the U.S Navy could support the growth of the Philippine Navy’s submarine force and improve anti-submarine warfare (ASW) capabilities,” PN said in a Facebook post.

PN said that the two navy officials discussed concerns on unmanned surface vessels and collaborative efforts to participate in joint exercises and train PN personnel to operate unmanned surface vessels.

“It marks a crucial step in the PN’s modernization efforts, aiming to enhance regional security and ensure that the PN is well-prepared for future defense challenges,” it added.