A suspected Chinese submarine drone was recovered off the central Philippines by fishermen and turned over to authorities, raising concerns about national security.

The yellow, torpedo-shaped device, marked “HY-119,” is believed to be an underwater navigation and reconnaissance system.

While unarmed, it has capabilities for monitoring and communication.

Tensions between China and the Philippines have escalated in the South China Sea, with recent confrontations involving Chinese coast guard ships and Philippine patrol vessels, AOL.com has reported.

The U.S. has reiterated its defense commitment to the Philippines in case of conflict.

Written by B.C. Begley