The Philippines plans to acquire the country's first-ever submarine to defend its maritime sovereignty, as tensions increase in the disputed South China Sea.

President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. has approved the third phase of modernization to boost the nation's defense capabilities.

A Navy official says in addition to submarines, the proposal includes the purchase of frigates and corvettes.

Philippines' defense secretary recently said Marcos approved "an array of capabilities" under phase three.
They cover areas like domain awareness, intelligence, as well as maritime and aerial deterrence.

Beijing has been claiming almost the entire South China Sea, including within the exclusive economic zones of other countries such as the Philippines.