Metro Manila (CNN Philippines, November 8) — The country on Tuesday formally received new air and ground assets for the Armed Forces, including critical defense equipment the nation is acquiring for the first time.
The close to ₱7 billion ground-based air defense system project — procured through the Israeli government in 2019 — plays an integral part in the Air Force’s defense capabilities.
Once mounted in a strategic location, it can repel aerial attacks from different aircraft, including unmanned air vehicles and even precision-guided munitions.
It primarily aims to protect vital military and government installations, and will also serve as a secondary layer of defense for aircraft protecting the nation’s airspace.
While deemed modest compared to those of neighboring countries, the new air defense system is seen as a much-needed boost as the Philippines navigates its position amid rising tensions in the South China Sea, Taiwan, and the Korean Peninsula.
President Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr., who graced the turnover ceremony of the assets, underscored the importance of the new acquisition.
“While we strive to live in peace with others, it is still crucial that our Armed Forces be modernized so that it is ready for all eventualities,” Marcos said.
“It is for this reason, that we strengthen our country’s capabilities in territorial defense, counter-terrorism, and internal security,” he added.
The President also witnessed the formal turnover of a C-295 medium lift aircraft, which is part of an over ₱5-billion package procured from Spain. The unit is often used to transport troops, as well as help in maritime patrol and disaster response.
