Officials say Chinese spy drone found off Philippines coast

Officials in the Philippines have said a local fisherman has found a Chinese spy drone while out fishing in the municipal seawaters of Iniwaran in the Philippines.

What is believed to be an Unterwasser-Drohne originating from China was plastered in bright yellow paint and the marking ‘HY-119’ on the body. The marking is said to refer to the drone being “an underwater navigation and communication system.”

The underwater drone or Unmanned Underwater Vehicle (UUV) has been handed over to the Naval Forces Southern Luzon, Naval Station (NAVFORSOL) for further investigation.

“The recovery of the HY-119 system has significant implications, as it provides insights into advanced underwater technology and naval capabilities. Authorities are closely examining the device as to its origin and to assess its potential impact on national security and maritime operations,” shared a spokesperson for the PNP Kasurog Bicol.

It is likely the UUV will be torn down and inspected to get a better understanding of the technology in use and to see if there is any recoverable data available to get a better understanding of what exact data is being recorded.

Local authorities have assured the public that multiple law enforcement agencies are currently working on the find and are “committed to maintaining the safety, peace, and security of the region.”

They have also asked that anyone else that finds a similar device to keep away from it and send a picture to their local authorities, who will then handle the rest.

Based on the area the drone was picked up from, we know it was found within internal Pilipino waters, a decent distance away from the surrounding sea, suggesting the UUV was in the middle of a mission when it was found.

China has continued to show its presence in the South China Sea and often reaching beyond into the Countries that border it. Chinese vessels have come face-to-face with Pilipino boats in the past, with the most recent event occurring on December 4th, 2024.

Images via Facebook by PNP Kasurog Bicol