The Philippines is in the third phase of the military modernization program with an estimated $ 35 billion spending on military strength to strengthen the next decade, according to Reuters on December 12.
USS Dewey destroyer and Philippine Navy ships BRP Gregorio del Pilar in the South China Sea on October 21, 2023
“Having at least two submarines is our dream. We are an archipelago. Therefore, we must have this kind of power, because it is really difficult to protect the entire archipelago without Submarines, “the Chief of Staff of the Philippine Armed Forces Romeo Saturnino Brawner Jr. Today said when speaking to top entrepreneurs.
In 2022, the Philippines bought a US $ 375 million anti -ship missile system from India and ordered it. “We will receive more (system) this year and in the coming years,” Mr. Brawner said.
The Philippines previously said they were targeting mid -range missiles and at least 40 fighters to enhance their defense.
This year, the Philippine Navy is expected to receive at least two guardians from South Korea, the country has upgraded relations with the Philippines to a strategic partnership.
Mr. Brawner also said that Manila is trying to take Korea to join the team, a multilateral group including Australia, Japan, Philippines and the United States.
The Philippines strengthens military strength in the context of tensions between Manila and Beijing in the South China Sea. Brawner said that the Philippine military had observed the increase in China’s concerns in the South China Sea, including the increase in the number of Chinese boats appearing every day in the Western Philippines. The western Philippines is the name Manila used to refer to the waters in the East Sea that they consider to be in the exclusive economic zone of the Philippines.
Also according to Mr. Brawner, a “shared maritime activity” with the US and Canada in “Manila’s waters” in the South China Sea is being conducted. He added that Manila also wanted such common activities to France, Italy and Britain.
The Chinese Embassy in Manila did not respond immediately to comment on Mr. Brawner’s statement, according to Reuters.
