The French proposal reportedly includes full training cycles, NATO-standard designs, and options for future upgrades. Naval Group opened a Manila office in 2022, signaling a long-term intent to embed itself in the Philippines' defence sector. The bid includes potential industrial partnerships and local support centers. While France lacks a recent direct defence export record to the Philippines, its existing presence in regional navies and experience in strategic cooperation give it an edge in long-term credibility. South Korea's Hanwha Ocean (formerly DSME) has proposed its latest Jang Bogo-III class submarine. This 77-meter-long platform is equipped with lithium-ion batteries, low acoustic signature propulsion, and six torpedo tubes capable of launching both torpedoes and cruise missiles. The submarine can reach speeds of 21 knots and carries a crew of 41.