Philippines Plans Major Expansion of Military Drone Capabilities Amid South China Sea Tensions

Post by : Saif

Philippines is planning to expand its military drone capabilities as part of a broader effort to modernise its armed forces and strengthen external defence, Defence Secretary Gilberto Teodoro said on Tuesday.

The proposed expansion comes as Manila faces growing security concerns in the South China Sea, where encounters between Philippine and Chinese vessels around disputed features have become more frequent in recent years. The Philippines has increasingly shifted its defence focus from internal security threats toward protecting its territory and maritime interests.

Drone capabilities to receive greater focus

Speaking during a budget hearing in the Philippine Congress, Teodoro said the armed forces already operate unmanned aerial vehicles used for intelligence, surveillance and reconnaissance.

He said the country could acquire more systems as its experience with unmanned technology develops. However, he stressed that simply purchasing drones would not be enough. Manila also needs secure communications, reliable networks and trained personnel capable of integrating the systems into military operations.

“More than the personnel, it is the integration into the operation,” Teodoro said, highlighting the importance of understanding how drones should be used effectively within military operations.

Defence budget set for increase

Drone expansion is included in a proposed 50 billion Philippine peso ($810 million) allocation for the country's military modernisation programme in 2027. The amount would be around 25% higher than the current modernisation budget.

The overall defence ministry budget is also being proposed for a 6.3% increase, reaching 305.5 billion pesos, compared with the spending plan approved for the current year.

Alongside drones, Manila plans to acquire additional guided-missile corvettes and other major defence equipment as it strengthens its external defence capabilities.

Read more: Philippines Signals Possible Cooperation With China Despite South China Sea Tensions

South China Sea tensions drive modernisation

The Philippines has increasingly focused on maritime security as disputes with China continue in the South China Sea. Manila's exclusive economic zone includes areas where the two countries have had repeated confrontations.

Military drones can provide surveillance and reconnaissance capabilities over large areas, helping Philippine forces monitor maritime activity and gather information without relying solely on manned aircraft or ships.

Teodoro did not disclose which specific drone systems the government is considering, saying details were classified and highly sensitive. He also highlighted the importance of protecting drone networks and artificial intelligence-related systems from compromise.

Philippines exploring international cooperation

Manila is also looking abroad for expertise in drone technology. Ukraine has held discussions with the Philippines over possible cooperation in the field, according to Ukraine's ambassador to Manila.

The United States has also provided the Philippine military with four solar-powered sea drones intended to strengthen maritime surveillance. The equipment adds to the country's growing focus on unmanned systems for monitoring its surrounding waters.

Focus shifts toward advanced defence technology

For the Philippines, the planned drone expansion represents a wider move toward technology-driven military modernisation. Officials are looking not only at acquiring new equipment but also at developing the communications infrastructure, operational expertise and secure networks needed to use unmanned systems effectively.

As tensions continue in the South China Sea, Manila is seeking to strengthen its ability to monitor maritime activity and respond to external security challenges. The proposed 2027 defence programme is expected to play an important role in that effort.

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