The Philippines has shared plans to ramp up drone capabilities through development and acquisition, a move seen as part of efforts to modernize its military forces.
Defense Secretary Gilberto Teodoro announced the development during a budget hearing in Congress, adding that the country has started to focus on external threats amid growing tensions with China in the South China Sea.
The expansion will be part of a 50-billion Philippine peso ($810 million) modernization initiative slated for 2027, with the budget reportedly 25 percent higher than current investment figures.
Teodoro stressed there will be priority on local development of new capabilities to ensure the country’s troops will be equipped with tactical knowledge to effectively operate drones.
While the defense secretary did not disclose what kind of drones are being eyed for the program, he indicated these systems will be powered by AI.
Currently, the Armed Forces of the Philippines operates a fleet of unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) designed for a range of intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance operations.
Manila’s Efforts to Improve Drone Tech
The modernization program is only part of the country’s recent moves to improve its UAV capabilities, with Manila recently signing a defense pact with Ukraine to share drone production and operational experience in wartime.
Called the “Drone Deal,” the partnership is expected to foster technology and cybersecurity exchange to help with maritime surveillance and electronic warfare.
The Philippines also recently acquired four autonomous underwater surface vehicles from the US, reportedly valued at $13 million in total.
Made by Mississippi-based Ocean Aero, the drone boats are solar-powered and can operate for up to 30 days without human crews, potentially helping Manila deter Beijing’s naval forces in the South China Sea.
