Philippines plans submarine purchase amid rising tensions
The Philippines plans to purchase at least two submarines as part of its military modernisation. General Romeo Brawner Jr. emphasises that this is a response to the increasing number of "illegal activities" by China in the South China Sea.
General Romeo Brawner Jr., the head of the Philippine Armed Forces, announced plans to purchase at least two submarines. This decision is part of the strategy to modernise the military and strengthen the country's defence capabilities.
The general indicated that the purchase is necessary in light of the growing number of "illegal activities" by China in the South China Sea.
The Philippines are arming themselves
During a forum organised by a Philippine business association, Brawner emphasised that possessing submarines is crucial for the defence of the archipelago. "We are an archipelago. Therefore, we must have this type of capability because it's difficult to defend the entire archipelago without submarines," the general stated.
He pointed out the increase in Chinese vessels in the West Philippine Sea, which is within the Philippines' exclusive economic zone.
The Philippine military modernisation programme "Horizons" is currently in its third phase, lasting until 2028. As part of this programme, the Philippines has already purchased BrahMos anti-ship missile systems from India. China's claims encompass almost the entire South China Sea, making the region one of the most volatile points in Southeast Asia. In 2016, the Arbitral Tribunal in The Hague dismissed Beijing's territorial claims, but China did not recognise this ruling.
