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🇸🇬 Singapore /Conflict & Security

Philippines seeking to expand military drone capabilities, says defence chief

From The Straits Times · () English

Summarized and contextualized by DistantNews.

At a glance

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  • The Philippines is planning to enhance its military's unmanned capabilities, including the development and acquisition of drones.
  • This modernization effort is part of the country's shift in security focus towards external threats, particularly in the South China Sea.
  • The Philippines is also seeking to acquire guided-missile corvettes and other major defense assets to bolster its external defense capabilities.

The Philippines is set to significantly expand its military's unmanned capabilities, with a strategic focus on developing and acquiring advanced drone technology. This initiative is a key component of the nation's broader military modernization program, aimed at strengthening its defense posture in response to rising regional tensions.

As we mature on the cycle, then we can acquire more.

— Gilberto TeodoroDefence Secretary Gilberto Teodoro discussing the Philippines' plan to acquire more unmanned aerial vehicles.

Defence Secretary Gilberto Teodoro announced the plans during a budget hearing, emphasizing the shift in the Philippines' security focus from internal threats to external defense. This pivot is largely driven by increasing confrontations with Beijing in the South China Sea, a region where territorial disputes have escalated in recent years.

Beyond drones, the Philippines also intends to procure additional guided-missile corvettes and other substantial defense assets. These acquisitions are designed to bolster the country's capacity for external defense. The military currently operates a fleet of unmanned aerial vehicles primarily for intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance (ISR) missions.

More than the personnel, it is the integration into the operation, what do you do with them and how do you use them.

— Gilberto TeodoroDefence Secretary Gilberto Teodoro emphasizing the importance of operational integration and utilization of drone technology.

Teodoro highlighted the importance of not just acquiring hardware but also developing the necessary operational know-how and secure communication systems to effectively integrate and utilize drone technology. He noted that the Philippines is actively engaging with countries possessing expertise in drone technology, including discussions with Ukraine regarding potential cooperation. The U.S. has also provided the Philippine military with solar-powered sea drones to enhance maritime surveillance.

They are very, very sensitive to compromise, particularly with AI.

— Gilberto TeodoroDefence Secretary Gilberto Teodoro commenting on the sensitivity of drone technology, especially concerning artificial intelligence.
DistantNews Editorial

Originally published by The Straits Times. Summarized and contextualized by our editorial team with added local perspective. Read our editorial standards.

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