The Philippine Navy held a departure ceremony on 4 June 2026 at Subic Freeport Naval Operations Base in Zambales to send its ships to RIMPAC 2026. The most notable platform in the Philippine contingent participating in the multinational naval exercise was the BRP Miguel Malvar (FFG-06) frigate, equipped with the GÖKDENIZ Close-In Weapon System manufactured by ASELSAN.

ASELSAN stands as a leading organization within Turkey's defense industrial ecosystem, delivering internationally standardized solutions in electronic warfare, radar, and fire control systems. The company maintains a significant track record in developing integrated defense systems for naval platforms. The GÖKDENIZ system represents a concrete manifestation of this expertise, demonstrating Turkish defense industry's capability in naval defense applications.

GÖKDENIZ is a point defense platform equipped with a 35 mm twin-barrel gun system. The system provides high firepower with a rate of fire of 1,100 rounds per minute, creating an effective protection mechanism against anti-ship missiles. Through its Automated Linkless Ammunition Feeding Mechanism, both particle ammunition (ATOM) and conventional high-explosive (HEI) rounds can be loaded simultaneously and selected based on target type. The Integrated Tracking Platform combines Fire Control Radar and Electro-Optical sensors to enable precise target tracking. Beyond anti-ship missiles, the system provides effective defense against helicopters, aircraft, unmanned aerial vehicles, and surface threats.

Philippine Navy Commander Admiral Jose Ma Ambrosio Q. Ezpeleta emphasized the strategic importance of the RIMPAC exercise during the departure ceremony, noting that the Philippines' participation for the first time since 2022 strengthens maritime cooperation toward a free and open Indo-Pacific under the "Sail Plan 2040." Admiral Ezpeleta called upon personnel to represent the nation at the highest level throughout the exercise. This year's RIMPAC exercise marks a historic step with the Philippine Coast Guard participating for the first time.

The 30th RIMPAC exercise, scheduled for 24-31 July, will host more than 40 warships from 31 nations with over 25,000 personnel. The exercise serves as a platform where allied naval forces from around the world will engage in professional knowledge sharing and execute complex operational scenarios. The participation of BRP Miguel Malvar equipped with the GÖKDENIZ system is significant for showcasing Turkish defense technology in international naval exercises.