Philippines seeking to expand military drone capabilities in modernization push, defense chief says
US defense ally the Philippines also plans to acquire additional guided-missile corvettes and other major defense assets to beef up its external defense capabilities.
The Philippines is planning to expand its military drone capabilities as part of a broader modernization effort for its armed forces, according to Defense Secretary Gilberto Teodoro. The country, which views external security as a growing priority due to escalating tensions with China in the South China Sea, aims to acquire additional guided-missile corvettes and other major defense assets, Teodoro said during a budget hearing in the lower house of Congress.
Currently, the armed forces utilize unmanned aerial vehicles for intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance purposes. The proposed 6.3% increase in the defense ministry's budget for 2027, from the current $4.95 billion spending plan, includes a 50 billion peso ($810.4 million) allocation for modernization next year, representing a 25% boost over the current budget.
Developing the necessary systems, connectivity, and operational expertise to effectively utilize drones is a key focus, Teodoro emphasized. The Philippine military is also keen on enhancing secure communications and network capabilities, he added. Teodoro did not disclose specific systems under consideration, stating that the details are classified and highly sensitive.
The Philippines has been in discussions with Ukraine regarding potential drone technology cooperation, with the latter expressing interest in the matter. The United States has also provided the Philippine military with four solar-powered sea drones to enhance its maritime surveillance efforts.
Written by urgent.news from Jerusalem Post's reporting — not their text. Machine-written — may contain errors; check the original before relying on it.
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