PH draws defense firms as military modernizes amid sea tension

GLOBAL defense contractors put their advanced hardware on display as the Philippines embarks on the latest phase of a multibillion-dollar effort to modernize its military at a time of rising tension in the South China Sea.

From Lockheed Martin of the United States to Sweden's Saab, Israel's Rafael and the India-Russia joint venture BrahMos, a total of 291 firms showcased military technology and weapons systems at an exhibition in Manila last week.

«The Philippines is an emerging market for the defense industry,» said Chester Cabalza, president of the Manila-based think tank International Development and Security Cooperation.

Firearms and defense equipment are displayed at the Asian Defense and Security Exhibition held on Sept. 27, 2024 at the World Trade Center. PHOTO BY RENE H. DILAN

Manila has allocated $35 billion for the buildup, spread over the next decade, as it has faced off with China in sea and air confrontations over contested areas of the busy South China Sea waterway.

«Our strategic issues with China have caught the attention of defense firms, and the exhibit demonstrates support from like-minded nations, many of whom are our partners and allies,» Cabalza added.

Under President Ferdinand Marcos Jr., the Philippines has looked beyond its traditional ally the United States to step up security partnerships with nations, such as Japan and Australia, also concerned with China's increasing regional influence.

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«The goal of modernization is to develop a credible defense force, whether there's the China issue or not,» said Jesus Avilla, a former assistant defense secretary, while visiting the biennial Asia Defense and Security (ADAS) exhibition.

In the third phase of a decadeslong effort to beef up territorial defense and maritime security, the Philippine military is looking to buy advanced assets such as fighter jets, submarines and missile systems.

While longstanding military ties ensure the United States is a key supplier, the Philippines has widened defense procurement to nations such as India, Israel, Poland, South Korea and Turkey.

Reflecting Manila's expanding role in regional security, the exhibition featured new companies and participating