Japan to Supply Coastal Radar and Drones to Philippine Military
Japan has agreed to provide the Philippine military with a coastal radar system and surveillance drones, in a grant worth 4.3 billion Japanese yen (approximately €24 million). This equipment is intended to help the Philippines track ships and enhance the security of shipping routes, which are also crucial for Japan.
The agreement was signed in Manila by Philippine Foreign Secretary Maria Theresa Lazaro and Japan’s ambassador Katsuro Kitagawa. The radar system will be allocated to the Philippine Navy, while the drones will go to the Air Force.
Highlights
- Japan will provide the Philippines with a coastal radar system and drones, valued at 4.3 billion Japanese yen.
- The equipment aims to help the Philippines monitor shipping and protect vital sea lanes in the South China Sea.
- This marks Japan's first complete defense system supplied under its Official Security Assistance program.
- China has criticized the program, viewing it as an attempt to build a security network around China.
- Both nations are also discussing the transfer of an Abukuma-class destroyer to the Philippine navy.
Details
Japan’s foreign ministry stated that the new equipment would help protect shipping routes important to Japan, including those through the South China Sea and the Luzon Strait, located between the Philippines and Taiwan. Japan had previously delivered five coastal radar systems to the Philippines in February under a 2023 grant. This new radar will be the first complete defense system provided under Japan's Official Security Assistance program.
Beijing has criticized the program since its inception, calling it an attempt to build a security network around China under the guise of development aid. Both the Philippines and China claim Scarborough Shoal, where China's military reported sending ships and aircraft on patrol on October 30. In a phone call on November 3, Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi urged Manila to act cautiously regarding the dispute.
Japan and the Philippines are also discussing the transfer of an Abukuma-class destroyer to the Philippine navy. Their defense ministers stated in October that they wish for the handover to occur as soon as possible after Japan retires the ship, expected in the coming years, with Philippine crews receiving prior training. Separately, the EU approved a €15 million package in July to help Philippine forces monitor the country’s waters, funding coastal radar, infrared surveillance equipment, and training.
Why it matters
This agreement is part of Japan's efforts to enhance security cooperation in the region and support the safety of sea lanes in the South China Sea. Strengthening the Philippines' defense capabilities is significant for regional power dynamics, especially in light of China's growing military presence and territorial claims in the area. This move could be seen as a broader strategic step to counterbalance China's influence in the region and has the potential to escalate regional tensions.