Shipbuilding giant HD Hyundai Heavy Industries has delivered a newly constructed patrol vessel to the Philippine Navy five months ahead of schedule, demonstrating its competitiveness in timely warship construction for global customers. The company said Monday it delivered the Rajah Sulayman offshore patrol vessel (OPV) to the Philippine Navy earlier this month. It did not disclose the exact delivery date, but said the vessel was handed over five months ahead of the agreed schedule. The ship was delivered after being completed and launched in June, followed by sea trials. The Philippines has been investing about $35 billion in its multi-phased Horizon military modernization program, which in its third phase — slated for 2023 to 2028 — focuses on strengthening naval and air force capabilities. As part of the initiative, the country has agreed to acquire frigates and offshore patrol vessels from HD Hyundai Heavy Industries. The 2,400-ton OPV delivered this time is the first of six vessels the company has agreed to build and supply to the Philippine Navy. According to industry officials