Escalating tensions in the South China Sea has resulted in several countries in that region to strengthen their naval capabilities, as demonstrated by some facts:
In May 2019, Philippine Navy announced its plans to buy 25-30 warships including destroyers to modernize and increase its existing fleet by 2030.
In December 2019, China announced its plans to build two guided-missile Type 055 and Type 052D destroyers that will be ready for battle service by 2021.
In January 2020, China presented its first fourth-generation guided-missile destroyer "Nanchang" intended be used as aircraft carrier escort.
In March 2020, Japan announced its plans to build its second Maya class destroyer that will be equipped with the Aegis defense system and will exhibit ballistic missile defense capability. The first Maya class destroyer was launched in 2019 and it is expected to be commissioned in a few months.
In May 2020, Australia also concluded its Air Warfare Destroyer program by commissioning the Hobart Class guided missile Aegis capable HMAS Sydney V destroyer. Australia is expected to purchase defense systems and other technological support worth billions to support the upgradation of the latest fleet.
Indian Navy has under construction four 7300 tons destroyers at Mazagon Docks in Mumbai, and the Indian government has signed a deal to acquire advanced sensor and weapon systems package for nearly USD 800 million to arm these under-construction warships.
Some other small nations with limited capabilities in shipbuilding are purchasing destroyers from other markets such as China, Europe, Japan, South Korea or United States.
