Introduction
The Philippines hosted a significant defense expo in Manila, drawing hundreds of international defense contractors. The event served as a platform for these companies to display their latest military technologies and innovations. Among the prominent participants were major defense firms such as Lockheed Martin from the United States, Rafael from Israel, and the India-Russia joint venture BrahMos. This gathering shows the growing interest of global defense contractors in contributing to the Philippines’ military advancements.
The primary objective of the expo was to explore and evaluate cutting-edge offerings that could support the Philippines’ ongoing military modernization program. The current phase of the modernization effort, known as Horizon 3, emphasizes the acquisition of advanced military assets, including fighter jets, submarines, and missile systems. With a substantial budget of $35 billion allocated for this phase, the Philippine government has demonstrated its strong commitment to building a credible and capable defense force.
In addition to showcasing new technologies, the expo facilitated productive negotiations and potential deals between the Philippines and leading defense contractors. These interactions are expected to help ensure that the nation remains well-prepared to address future security challenges, by strengthening its defense posture in the region. Let us get a glimpse of this.
Prominent Participants
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C-130J Super Hercules aircraft
The Philippines has a long-standing relationship with Lockheed Martin, particularly in the procurement of the C-130J Super Hercules aircraft. This tactical airlifter, known for its versatility and reliability, has been a key asset for the Philippine Air Force (PAF), playing a vital role in various operational capacities.
In October 2023, the Philippines announced the acquisition of three new C-130J-30 Super Hercules aircraft through a direct commercial sale with Lockheed Martin. The delivery schedule for these aircraft is set, with the first arriving in July 2026, the second in October 2026, and the third in January 2027. The C-130J-30 is an extended version of the standard C-130J, offering an additional 15 feet of cargo space, which significantly increases payload capacity and mission flexibility.
The new C-130J-30s are expected to significantly enhance the PAF’s airlift capabilities, supporting a broad range of missions such as humanitarian aid, disaster relief, and military operations. With improved power, range, and integration capabilities, the Super Hercules will enable more efficient operations, even in the challenging environmental and geographic conditions often encountered in the Philippines.
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Rafael (Israel)
The Philippines has taken significant steps to enhance its air defense capabilities with the procurement of the SPYDER (Surface-to-air Python and Derby) air defense system from Israel’s Rafael Advanced Defense Systems. This acquisition represents a critical investment in the country’s defense infrastructure, particularly in safeguarding against a wide range of aerial threats.
In 2021, the Philippines secured three batteries of the SPYDER system from Rafael, valued at approximately $141 million. Each battery is composed of mobile launchers, radar systems, and command and control units, forming a comprehensive and flexible air defense solution. The first two batteries were delivered in November 2022, with the third expected to arrive soon.
The SPYDER system uses Python-5 and Derby missiles, capable of intercepting various aerial threats, including aircraft, helicopters, unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs), and cruise missiles. It offers both short-range (SR) and medium-range (MR) configurations, enabling flexible deployment depending on the threat environment. Mounted on mobile platforms, the system allows for rapid repositioning to protect critical assets and strategic locations, adding a crucial layer of defense for the nation.
For the Philippines, the SPYDER system marks a significant boost to the Philippine Air Force’s (PAF) ability to defend key installations and urban areas from aerial attacks. This acquisition is part of the broader Horizon 2 phase of the military modernization program, addressing the country’s regional security challenges, particularly in the contested West Philippine Sea. Alongside the procurement, the PAF has conducted extensive training programs to ensure personnel are well-prepared to operate and maintain the system, enhancing its overall operational readiness.
The acquisition of the SPYDER air defense system is a major milestone in the Philippines’ military modernization efforts, reflecting the nation’s commitment to strengthening its defense posture amid evolving security threats.
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BrahMos (India-Russia Joint Venture)
The BrahMos missile, developed by BrahMos Aerospace, a joint venture between India and Russia, is recognized as the world’s fastest supersonic cruise missile. Its versatility allows it to be launched from various platforms, including submarines, ships, aircraft, and land, making it a formidable asset in modern warfare. This advanced missile system has attracted significant attention worldwide for its exceptional capabilities.
The Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) have expressed strong interest in the BrahMos missile system, recognizing its strategic advantages. In January 2022, the Philippines became the first foreign nation to officially procure the BrahMos missile, as part of the Philippine Navy’s Shore-Based Anti-Ship Missile Acquisition Project. The contract for this acquisition is valued at approximately $375 million, signaling a major step in bolstering the country’s maritime defense.
The BrahMos missile offers significant capabilities, including speeds of nearly three times the speed of sound (Mach 2.8 to 3.0), making it difficult for targets to evade. Its precision and speed are critical for the AFP, particularly in protecting the Philippines’ vast maritime borders. With a range of up to 290-300 kilometers, the missile allows the AFP to engage targets at considerable distances, enhancing its ability to defend key areas. The deployment of the BrahMos system significantly strengthens the AFP’s deterrence capabilities, especially in the South China Sea, where territorial disputes with China have increased the need for robust defense measures.
In terms of deployment, the Philippines is constructing its first BrahMos missile base at the Philippine Naval Station Leovigildo Gantioqui in Zambales, a location that faces the South China Sea. This strategic positioning enables the AFP to effectively monitor and respond to potential threats in the region. Extensive training and integration efforts have also been undertaken by the AFP to ensure that personnel are fully prepared to operate and maintain the BrahMos system.
The acquisition of the BrahMos missile system marks a major milestone in the Philippines’ military modernization program, equipping the AFP with a powerful tool to protect national security and assert its territorial claims in contested waters.
Sealing the Deal?
Saab, the Swedish defense firm, has been actively promoting its JAS39 Gripen jets as a top contender for the Philippine Air Force’s (PAF) Multi-Role Fighter (MRF) acquisition program. At the recent Asian Defense and Security (ADAS) exhibition in Manila, the Gripen attracted significant attention from military personnel and visitors. Attendees, including PAF officers, had the opportunity to sit in the cockpit and engage with Saab representatives, gaining firsthand insight into the aircraft’s advanced technology and operational flexibility. The Gripen, known for its versatility and cutting-edge features, showcased its potential to meet the diverse needs of modern air forces, strengthening Saab’s bid in the competitive fighter jet market.
In parallel, Saab has been involved in promising negotiations with the Philippine defense ministry, exploring a long-term partnership for the acquisition of the JAS39 Gripen. Saab has emphasized the jet’s cost-effectiveness and operational efficiency, positioning it as an ideal match for the PAF’s requirements. Jussi Halmetoja, Saab’s air operations adviser, reaffirmed the company’s commitment to delivering credible, sustainable, and budget-conscious offensive air power. With its low operating costs and advanced capabilities, the Gripen offers an attractive solution for the PAF as it continues its military modernization efforts, aiming to enhance its aerial combat readiness while staying within budgetary constraints.
Military Modernization
The Philippine government has committed $35 billion over the next decade to bolster its military capabilities, a significant investment reflecting the country’s resolve to modernize its defense forces. This budget is primarily driven by rising tensions with China, particularly over territorial disputes in the South China Sea.
The modernization initiative aims to ensure the Philippines can effectively defend its sovereignty and maintain regional stability amid these growing security concerns. By enhancing its defense infrastructure, the Philippines is seeking to safeguard its national interests and improve its ability to respond to potential threats. At the heart of this effort is the Horizon 3 program, the final phase of the Philippines’ military modernization initiative. This phase focuses on acquiring advanced military assets such as multi-role fighter jets, submarines, missiles, and radar systems, ensuring the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) are equipped with state-of-the-art technology.
The objective is to develop a credible and capable defense force ready to address both present and future security challenges. Former assistant defense secretary Jesus Avilla underscored the importance of this initiative, noting that modernization is essential to building a robust military, regardless of immediate tensions with China. Horizon 3 represents a decisive step in strengthening the Philippines’ defense posture, preparing the country for evolving security threats in an increasingly volatile region.
Conclusion
In essence, the Philippines’ defense expo and ongoing military modernization efforts, particularly through the Horizon 3 program, shows the nation’s commitment to strengthen its defense capabilities. With significant investments and partnerships with global defense contractors, the Philippines is aimed at enhancing its military infrastructure. These advancements will equip the Armed Forces of the Philippines to effectively address both current and future security challenges, ensuring national security and regional stability.
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