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ASEAN/News, Central Region (2025)

16/10/2025

France Emerges as Key Partner in Philippine Defense Modernization as Strategic Talks Advance

MANILA — France has positioned itself as a competitive contender in the Philippines’ ambitious defense modernization program, vying for multiple projects across land, air, naval, cyber, and space domains. The developments coincide with ongoing negotiations for a Status of Visiting Forces Agreement (SVFA), signaling deepening bilateral ties amid shared regional security priorities. The strategic dialogue gained momentum during a high-profile meeting between Philippine Defense Secretary Gilberto C. Teodoro, Jr. and French Ambassador Marie Fontanel on October 14, 2025, underscoring a mutual drive to elevate defense and technological collaboration.

The Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) is evaluating French proposals under its multi-domain modernization roadmap, which includes the Self-Reliant Defense Posture (SRDP) program aimed at bolstering local defense industries. French firms are reportedly competing in critical areas such as naval vessel procurement, cybersecurity infrastructure, and space technology—a sector gaining urgency following the Philippine Space Agency’s (PhilSA) expansion. Analysts note France’s push aligns with Manila’s diversification of defense partnerships beyond traditional allies.

Central to the discussions is the proposed SVFA, a pivotal framework to facilitate joint military exercises, disaster response operations, and streamlined troop deployments. While details remain under wraps, the agreement is seen as a cornerstone for operationalizing broader maritime security cooperation, particularly in the contested South China Sea. France, with its Indo-Pacific military presence, has increasingly framed the Philippines as a strategic partner in upholding freedom of navigation and international law.

During the courtesy call at the Department of National Defense (DND), Secretary Teodoro and Ambassador Fontanel emphasized the need to accelerate technology transfers and co-development initiatives. The dialogue highlighted France’s expertise in defense innovation, including satellite systems, unmanned platforms, and next-generation naval assets—areas critical to Philippine priorities. Undersecretary for Defense Affairs Angelito M. De Leon stressed the “transformative potential” of aligning French technological prowess with Manila’s operational needs.

Maritime security dominated the agenda, with both parties reaffirming commitments to counter regional threats, including illegal fishing, territorial incursions, and environmental degradation. France’s advanced surveillance capabilities and experience in Indo-Pacific maritime patrols were cited as vital to enhancing the Philippines’ situational awareness. The talks also explored joint training programs for AFP personnel, building on earlier coast guard collaborations.

Space collaboration emerged as a groundbreaking frontier, with PhilSA officials outlining plans for satellite-based maritime monitoring and disaster resilience. Dr. Gay Jane P. Perez, PhilSA’s Officer-in-Charge, emphasized France’s role in advancing the agency’s capacity in space technology—a domain increasingly intertwined with national security. Engr. Denis F. Villorente, PhilSA Deputy Director General, noted discussions on leveraging French expertise for satellite launches and data-sharing mechanisms.

The meeting’s broad attendance—including defense acquisition, logistics, and international affairs officials—reflects the multidimensional nature of the partnership. Assistant Secretary Marita I. Yoro underscored the importance of “interoperability and long-term sustainability” in defense acquisitions, hinting at potential multi-year contracts. Meanwhile, Undersecretary Salvador Melchor B. Mison, Jr. highlighted France’s willingness to accommodate flexible financing models, a key consideration for Manila’s budget-conscious modernization plans.

As negotiations progress, observers anticipate intensified diplomatic engagement, with France poised to join the ranks of the Philippines’ top defense suppliers. The partnership, rooted in mutual strategic interests, not only strengthens Manila’s defense capabilities but also reinforces France’s foothold in the Indo-Pacific. With regional tensions simmering, the collaboration signals a united front in promoting stability through innovation, shared resources, and adherence to a rules-based international order.
- ASEAN/News

📷©DND

|🇵🇭🤝🇫🇷 France-Philippines Defense Ties Soar: From Warships to Satellites, Maritime Security to Space Tech! High-level talks cement partnership amid SVFA negotiations, as AFP modernization gains French expertise.

16/10/2025

Philippines and US Engage in Discussions on Rare Earth Mineral Potential

Manila, Philippines – The Philippines and the United States are engaged in preliminary discussions regarding the potential exploration and development of the Philippines' untapped rare earth mineral resources, which some experts estimate could be worth trillions of dollars. This comes at a time when global powers are seeking to diversify their supply chains and reduce reliance on China, which currently dominates the rare earth market.

Rare earth elements (REEs) are a set of seventeen metallic elements crucial for various high-tech applications, including electric vehicles, wind turbines, smartphones, and defense systems. As the world transitions towards cleaner energy and advanced technologies, the demand for REEs is projected to skyrocket, making them a strategically important commodity.

The Philippines, strategically located in Southeast Asia, possesses significant, albeit underexplored, reserves of these valuable minerals. While the country is known for its rich deposits of gold, copper, and nickel, its rare earth potential has only recently begun to attract serious attention.

Geologist Dr. Rene Juna Claveria, an emeritus professor at Ateneo de Manila University, has identified the presence of scandium, one of the rare earths subject to China's export ban, in the Philippines' nickel-rich laterite deposits. These deposits are primarily located in Zambales, Surigao del Sur, and Palawan provinces, according to a study by the Philippine Council for Industry, Energy and Emerging Technology.

"The Philippines has the potential to become a significant player in the global rare earth market," Dr. Claveria stated. "However, realizing this potential requires substantial investment in exploration, mining, and processing technologies."

The ongoing discussions between the Philippines and the United States reflect a growing interest in diversifying rare earth supply chains. The US, in particular, is seeking to reduce its dependence on China for these critical minerals, and the Philippines presents a promising alternative source.

While the talks are still in their early stages, both countries recognize the strategic importance of developing the Philippines' rare earth resources. Potential areas of cooperation include geological surveys, technical assistance, technology transfer, and investment in mining and processing infrastructure.

However, the development of the Philippines' rare earth industry faces several challenges. These include attracting foreign investment, ensuring environmentally sustainable mining practices, and addressing social concerns related to land rights and community development.

The Philippine government is currently working on a comprehensive regulatory framework to govern the exploration and mining of rare earth minerals. This framework aims to balance economic development with environmental protection and social responsibility.

The potential economic benefits of developing the Philippines' rare earth resources are substantial. It could generate billions of dollars in revenue, create thousands of jobs, and boost the country's technological capabilities.

Moreover, it would strengthen the Philippines' position as a key player in the global supply chain and enhance its strategic importance to the United States and other allies.

As the Philippines and the United States continue their discussions, the world will be watching closely to see how this potential trillion-dollar opportunity unfolds. The development of the Philippines' rare earth resources could have far-reaching implications for the global economy and the future of technology.

- ASEAN/News

📷©Freepik / File Photo

|Philippines, US discuss exploring untapped rare earth minerals amid global shift to diversify supply chains. Scandium deposits identified in Zambales, Surigao del Sur, and Palawan, per local studies.

16/10/2025

Philippines Inks Historic Energy Deals to Curb Reliance on Fuel Imports

MANILA – President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. on Wednesday presided over the signing of eight Petroleum Service Contracts (PSCs) valued at $207 million, marking the largest batch of exploration agreements in Philippine history. Spanning areas in Palawan, Sulu, Cagayan, Cebu, and Central Luzon, the contracts aim to accelerate domestic energy production and reduce dependence on imported oil, which currently meets over 99% of the country’s petroleum needs.

The agreements include the Philippines’ first-ever native hydrogen exploration projects in Central Luzon, a nascent but globally watched energy frontier. President Marcos framed the deals as critical to achieving “energy security, economic stability, and self-reliance,” particularly as global oil price volatility disproportionately impacts low-income households. “When fuel prices rise internationally, ordinary Filipinos bear the burden,” he emphasized during the signing ceremony in Malacañang.

Two of the contracts, covering the Sulu Sea, involve collaboration with the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (BARMM), marking a milestone in post-conflict economic integration under the Bangsamoro Organic Law. This partnership signals efforts to align resource development with regional autonomy and inclusive growth.

The hydrogen exploration projects, managed by undisclosed international partners, reflect the Philippines’ pivot toward cleaner energy sources. Marcos described these ventures as proof of the country’s “readiness to lead in sustainable innovation,” though technical and commercial viability remain unproven. Energy Secretary Sharon Garin added that the contracts would attract foreign investors and advance the transition to “cleaner, more sustainable” energy systems.

Exploration under the PSCs will span seven years, with contractors conducting seismic, geological, and geophysical studies. The Department of Energy (DOE) mandates that firms fund local development programs even before commercial production begins, linking resource extraction to grassroots benefits. Marcos assured investors of streamlined permitting and incentives, stressing that progress must be achieved “with integrity, responsibility, and respect for our people.”

However, challenges persist. The Philippines’ upstream energy sector has struggled for decades, with limited commercial discoveries despite earlier exploration efforts. Environmental advocates also warn of ecological risks, particularly in biodiverse zones like Palawan and the Sulu Sea. The government has yet to clarify how it will enforce environmental safeguards or address potential community opposition.

For ASEAN, the Philippines’ aggressive push mirrors regional efforts to balance energy security with sustainability. While the contracts could position the country as a future energy player, success hinges on translating exploration into tangible output—a task requiring technical precision, investor confidence, and robust governance.

- ASEAN/News

📷©RTVM/ PNA

|Philippines signs historic $207M energy contracts to cut fuel imports, taps hydrogen exploration in Central Luzon and oil/gas in Palawan, Sulu. Includes first BARMM-collaborative Sulu Sea projects.

14/10/2025

Hanwha Eyes Philippines for Anti-Ship Ballistic Missile Sales

WASHINGTON, D.C. – South Korean defense firm Hanwha is actively pursuing the sale of its new anti-ship ballistic missile (ASBM) to the Philippines, aiming to bolster the Southeast Asian nation's maritime deterrence capabilities. This move aligns with Manila's ongoing military modernization efforts in response to increasing Chinese assertiveness in the South China Sea.

Hanwha representatives expressed the company's eagerness to provide the currently in-development CTM-ASBM to the Philippines, citing a "growing demand from customers seeking anti-ship capability." The offering is intended to complement Hanwha's K239 Chunmoo, a mobile multi-launch rocket system capable of firing a variety of munitions, including medium-range rockets and short-range ballistic missiles.

The CTM-ASBM, derived from the existing CTM, can be quad-packed into each Chunmoo launching pod, allowing for a total of eight anti-ship munitions per system. Hanwha claims the system can strike targets up to 160 kilometers away and features an integrated seeker designed to accurately target ships at sea. Development of the CTM-ASBM is slated for completion by 2028.

Hanwha's interest in supplying systems for Manila's military modernization comes as the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) places renewed emphasis on long-range precision fires to counter maritime threats. Philippine defense officials have expressed interest in acquiring Mid-Range Capability launchers, High Mobility Rocket Artillery Systems, and Navy-Marine Corps Expeditionary Ship Interdiction Systems, in addition to India's BrahMos supersonic anti-ship cruise missiles.

The Philippine Army has also considered the Chunmoo system as part of its artillery modernization plan. While larger than the U.S.-supplied HIMARS, the Korean multiple-launch rocket system offers greater mobility compared to the Philippine Marine Corps' upcoming BrahMos anti-ship missiles, which rely on large trucks and established road networks for transportation across the Philippine islands.

Recent Philippine military exercises, such as Balikatan, Salaknib, and Kamandag, have showcased the increased deployment of these high-end missile systems to strategic waterways and terrain throughout the archipelago. U.S. forces have also deployed long-range Army and Marine Corps missile systems within the Luzon Strait, a critical chokepoint separating the first and second island chains.

In Palawan, a western province facing the South China Sea, U.S. forces have conducted HIMARS live-fire exercises into the South China Sea during coastal defense drills. Philippine troops have received training from their American counterparts in the operation of these advanced missile systems, further enhancing their capabilities.

- ASEAN/News

📷©Korean Forces Network

|Hanwha eyes missile deal with Philippines to boost maritime defense amid China's assertiveness.

13/10/2025

Manila-Zagreb Defense Dialogue: Forging a Strategic Bridge Between ASEAN and EU Amid Rising Threats

Manila | Philippine Secretary of National Defense Gilberto C. Teodoro, Jr. hosted Croatian Minister of Foreign and European Affairs Gordan Grlić Radman in a high-level courtesy call at the Department of National Defense in Manila. The meeting, attended by senior diplomats and defense officials from both nations, underscored a mutual interest in deepening bilateral cooperation across defense, cybersecurity, and maritime security—a move seen as part of Manila’s broader strategy to diversify security partnerships beyond traditional allies.

The dialogue emphasized shared priorities in addressing transnational threats, including terrorism, cyberattacks, and regional instability. Secretary Teodoro reaffirmed the Philippines’ commitment to “rules-based multilateralism,” while Minister Radman highlighted Croatia’s role as an EU member advocating for stronger Indo-Pacific engagement. “Our nations recognize the interconnectedness of global security challenges,” Radman stated, signaling openness to joint training programs and technology exchanges.

The presence of key diplomats, including Philippine Non-Resident Ambassador to Croatia Evangelina A. Bernas and Croatian Non-Resident Ambassador to the Philippines Nebojša Koharović, underscored the growing diplomatic momentum between the two countries. Observers noted the symbolic significance of the meeting, given Croatia’s strategic position in Southeast Europe and the Philippines’ role as a frontline state in Southeast Asian maritime disputes.

Croatia’s delegation, which included State Secretary Ivan Vidiš and senior policy advisors, expressed particular interest in Philippine expertise in counterinsurgency and disaster response—a nod to Manila’s experience combating militant groups and climate-driven crises. Meanwhile, Philippine officials inquired about Croatia’s advanced defense manufacturing sector, including its naval technologies, which could complement ongoing modernization efforts under Manila’s Revised Armed Forces of the Philippines Modernization Program.

The talks come amid escalating regional tensions in both the South China Sea and Eastern Europe, with Manila seeking to bolster alliances amid China’s assertiveness and Zagreb navigating post-Ukraine war security dynamics. Analysts suggest the Philippines-Croatia dialogue reflects a broader trend of middle powers forging “niche partnerships” to counterbalance geopolitical shifts.

While no formal agreements were signed, the meeting laid groundwork for future collaboration, including potential intelligence-sharing mechanisms and joint exercises. Such initiatives could align with ASEAN and EU frameworks, particularly as Croatia prepares to assume the ASEAN-EU dialogue partnership coordination role in 2024.
- ASEAN/News

📷©DND

13/10/2025

Taiwan Bolsters Air Defense with "T-Dome" System Amid Rising Regional Tensions

TAIPEI – Taiwan is enhancing its air defense capabilities with the "T-Dome" system, a multi-layered network for a more integrated and efficient response to aerial threats. Announced by Taiwan's Defense Minister on Monday, the system underscores the island's commitment to modernizing its military amid increasing pressure from China.

President Lai Ching-te unveiled the "T-Dome" system on Friday, highlighting its role in strengthening Taiwan's defense posture by establishing a seamless "sensor-to-shooter" mechanism. This enables quicker and more accurate target engagement, improving the kill rate and providing a more robust defense against aerial incursions.

The Defense Ministry plans to propose a special budget by year's end to fund the "T-Dome" system, reflecting the government's determination to prioritize defense modernization and ensure the island's security. The budget will cover the acquisition, integration, and deployment of the system's components.

The "T-Dome" system's development comes amid heightened regional tensions. China consistently asserts its claim over Taiwan, viewing the island as a renegade province to be reunified, by force if necessary. Beijing has intensified its military activities around Taiwan, including frequent air and naval exercises, increasing the urgency for Taipei to bolster its defenses.

The "T-Dome" system is part of Taiwan's broader military modernization, including investments in advanced missile systems, naval vessels, and cyber warfare capabilities. Taiwan's strategic goal is to develop a credible deterrent that would make any potential military action by China costly and complex.

The introduction of the "T-Dome" system has been met with mixed reactions. Some analysts view it as necessary for Taiwan to safeguard its security, while others express concerns that it could further escalate tensions with China. However, the Taiwanese government maintains that its defense buildup is purely defensive, aimed at preserving regional peace and stability.

- ASEAN/News

📷© Reuters /Ann Wang

|A new air defense system enhancing sensor-to-shooter integration for higher interception rates, backed by a year-end budget amid rising tensions with China.

10/10/2025

Philippine Army’s COBRA RCWS: A Beacon of Filipino Ingenuity in National Defense

Manila, Philippines — The Philippine Army has taken a bold step toward self-reliance with the official deployment of its indigenously developed COBRA (Combat Operational Breakthrough Remote-controlled Armament), a state-of-the-art remote-controlled weapon system (RCWS). Crafted entirely by Filipino engineers and defense specialists, the COBRA symbolizes a transformative shift in the nation’s approach to securing its sovereignty, blending cutting-edge technology with homegrown expertise.

The COBRA project, spearheaded by the Department of Science and Technology (DOST) in partnership with local defense firms, represents over five years of meticulous research and testing. Designed to operate in the Philippines’ diverse terrains—from rugged mountains to dense urban landscapes—the system combines precision targeting, real-time surveillance, and modular adaptability. Unlike imported counterparts, the COBRA is tailored to address the unique challenges faced by Filipino troops, offering seamless integration with existing military assets.

At its core, the COBRA prioritizes soldier safety. Operators can control the weapon system from shielded positions, significantly reducing exposure to hostile fire during counterinsurgency missions or maritime security operations. Equipped with thermal imaging and night-vision capabilities, it ensures round-the-clock operational readiness. “This isn’t just about firepower—it’s about preserving the lives of our soldiers while maximizing tactical effectiveness,” remarked Brigadier General Carlos Ledesma during a recent demonstration in Nueva Ecija.

Beyond its military applications, the COBRA initiative has invigorated the local defense industry. Over 50 small and medium enterprises contributed components to the project, fostering job creation and technological skill development. Defense analysts highlight its potential to position the Philippines as a regional hub for defense innovation, reducing costly imports and retaining capital within the national economy. “Every peso invested here strengthens both our security and our industrial base,” emphasized DOST Secretary Renato Solidum.

The COBRA’s debut has resonated across Southeast Asia, where nations grapple with balancing cost-effective defense solutions with geopolitical uncertainties. Neighboring countries, including Vietnam and Indonesia, have reportedly expressed interest in collaborative ventures or technology-sharing agreements. This regional curiosity underscores the Philippines’ emerging role as a leader in accessible, adaptable military technology.

Early deployments in conflict zones like Sulu and Marawi have earned praise from frontline personnel. Soldiers lauded the system’s user-friendly interface and durability under extreme conditions. “It’s reliable, responsive, and built for our needs,” shared Sergeant Maria Reyes, a combat engineer involved in testing. The Army has already outlined plans for future upgrades, including AI-assisted target recognition and integration with unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs), ensuring the COBRA evolves alongside global defense trends.

The COBRA’s success has ignited a renewed sense of patriotism, transcending military circles. Social media platforms are flooded with tributes to the engineers and soldiers behind the project, while educational institutions are pushing STEM programs to nurture the next generation of defense innovators. As Senator Ana Hernandez noted, “This is proof that Filipino creativity, when paired with political will, can overcome any challenge.” With the COBRA, the Philippines doesn’t just defend its borders—it showcases the world-class potential of its people.
- ASEAN/News

🎥©️Armed Forces of the Philippines

|Philippine Army’s COBRA: Filipino-made remote-controlled weapon system, advancing defense independence.

09/10/2025

Philippine Army Unveils Homegrown Defense Tech Ahead of Landmark Industry Forum

MANILA — The Philippine Army is set to showcase its first wave of locally developed defense technologies at the upcoming Defense Industry Forum (October 9–10) in Camp Aguinaldo, marking a bold leap toward reducing reliance on foreign arms imports. From AI-powered surveillance drones to modular armored vehicle kits, the innovations—crafted alongside universities, startups, and state engineers—signal Manila’s resolve to build a “made-by-Filipinos, for Filipinos” defense ecosystem under its Self-Reliant Defense Posture (SRDP) program.

Among the breakthroughs is the “Agila” hybrid drone, a solar-electric UAV capable of 18-hour maritime patrols over the West Philippine Sea. Designed with the University of the Philippines, it integrates machine learning to identify unauthorized vessels in contested waters. Equally notable is the “Sandugo” modular artillery system, a truck-mounted 105mm howitzer that local firms can rapidly assemble using 60% domestically sourced parts—a response to urgent artillery shortages exacerbated by regional tensions.

Academia has emerged as a linchpin in this push. The Army’s partnership with Mapua University and the Department of Science and Technology has birthed AI-driven logistics software, cutting fuel and maintenance costs for forward-deployed units by 30%. Meanwhile, Bulacan State University’s engineers are refining a blockchain-based arms tracking system to combat black-market weapon diversion, a chronic issue in the Philippines’ counterinsurgency operations.

Economically, the SRDP is catalyzing a defense micro-industry. Over 200 SMEs now supply components for everything from ballistic vests to portable bridge systems, creating 5,000 jobs since 2023. “This isn’t just about security—it’s about building a tech-literate workforce,” Defense Secretary Gilberto Teodoro Jr. stated, noting that 40% of participating firms are veteran-owned. Critics, however, warn that scaling production to meet the Army’s needs remains a hurdle without larger foreign partnerships.

Strategic allies are taking notice. South Korea’s Hanwha and Japan’s Mitsubishi have proposed joint ventures to co-produce radar and missile guidance systems using Philippine-made semiconductors. Such collaborations aim to position the country as a niche hub for affordable, tropicalized defense gear tailored for ASEAN’s climate and terrain. “The region doesn’t need overengineered tanks—it needs cost-effective solutions,” a senior Army procurement officer remarked.

Geopolitically, the SRDP aligns with ASEAN’s collective push to curb overreliance on U.S. or Chinese suppliers. Analysts note that Manila’s advances in asymmetric tech—like swarm drones for island defense—could inspire neighbors like Vietnam or Indonesia to accelerate their own homegrown programs. Yet challenges persist: limited R&D funding and bureaucratic delays have stalled projects like a planned hybrid engine plant in Cebu.

The Defense Industry Forum arrives as Manila faces mounting pressure to counter Beijing’s gray-zone tactics. While the Army’s prototypes aren’t battle-tested, officers argue that local innovation fosters tactical creativity. “When you build it yourself, you learn to adapt faster,” said Brig. Gen. Romeo Brawner Jr., citing guerrilla-style modifications to jeep-mounted rocket launchers during the Marawi siege.

As the forum approaches, the Army’s campaign underscores its bid to rally public support for defense modernization. With the hashtags and trending, the event isn’t just a tech expo—it’s a statement that in a fractured Indo-Pacific, self-reliance is the ultimate deterrence.

- ASEAN/News

📷©️Armed Forces of the Philippines

|Locally developed AI drones and modular artillery systems, forged with academe and industry partners, highlight Manila’s push for military self-reliance against regional threats.

09/10/2025

Philippines’ 155mm Howitzer Showdown: Czech DITA vs. French CAESAR in High-Stakes Army Modernization Bid

MANILA — The Philippine Army’s quest to modernize its artillery corps has narrowed to a head-to-head battle between two European giants: the Czech Republic’s DITA 155mm self-propelled howitzer (SPH) and France’s CAESAR 155mm SPH. With Israeli contenders like Elbit Systems now out of the race, defense analysts are dissecting which system better aligns with Manila’s budget, terrain challenges, and strategic deterrence goals in the Indo-Pacific. While military sources hint a decision has already been made, the veil of secrecy around the winner has sparked intense speculation.

The DITA, developed by Czech firm Excalibur Army, is a wheeled howitzer lauded for its agility in rough terrain—a critical factor for the Philippines’ archipelagic landscape. Its automated ammunition handling system can fire six rounds per minute at ranges exceeding 40 kilometers, with extended-range munitions pushing that to 50 km. The system’s digitized fire control and NATO compatibility make it a plug-and-play option for the Army, which already operates older M101 and M114 towed howitzers. However, the DITA’s heavier weight (28 tons) could limit deployment on remote islands with weak infrastructure.

In contrast, France’s CAESAR—a truck-mounted SPH by Nexter—boasts a lighter footprint (18 tons) and combat-proven reliability in Middle Eastern conflicts. Its 155mm/52-caliber gun matches the DITA’s firepower but adds a rapid “shoot-and-scoot” capability, firing six rounds in three minutes before relocating—a survival advantage against counterbattery threats. The CAESAR’s 42-kilometer base range (55 km with rocket-assisted shells) and lower crew requirement (five vs. DITA’s six) give it an edge in rapid response scenarios. Yet its open cab design leaves crews more exposed to shrapnel or extreme weather.

Cost and logistics loom large in the decision. The CAESAR, priced at approximately $5 million per unit, is marginally cheaper than the DITA’s reported $5.5 million tag. However, the Czech offering includes advanced automation that reduces manual reloading—a perk for troops operating in sweltering tropical conditions. Maintenance networks also factor in: France already supplies the Philippine Navy with BrahMos missiles, suggesting existing logistical pathways, while the Czechs would need to build local support hubs from scratch.

Strategic geopolitics may tip the scales. The DITA’s Eastern European origins offer Manila a politically neutral choice amid rising U.S.-China tensions, avoiding perceptions of overt alignment with Western powers. Meanwhile, the CAESAR aligns with President Marcos Jr.’s push to deepen defense ties with France, which recently conducted joint naval drills in the West Philippine Sea. A French win would further cement Paris as a key Indo-Pacific player, counterbalancing Beijing’s regional clout.

Terrain adaptability remains pivotal. The CAESAR’s truck chassis excels on paved roads and light trails, ideal for Luzon’s highways or coastal deployments. But the DITA’s 8x8 armored configuration offers better off-road stability in mud-soaked jungles or mountainous regions like Sierra Madre—areas where the Army anticipates positioning artillery to deter maritime incursions. “The Philippines isn’t Ukraine, but we need systems that won’t get stuck during monsoon season,” a retired Army artillery commander noted anonymously.

Industry insiders suggest the undisclosed winner may have clinched the deal through offset agreements, like technology transfers or local assembly partnerships—a priority for Manila’s self-reliance agenda. The CAESAR’s modular design allows for easier integration of Philippine-made components, while the DITA’s automation could spur tech upskilling. Either choice would mark a quantum leap from the Army’s current Vietnam War-era artillery, which lacks range to counter modern threats.

As the defense sector awaits an official announcement, the broader implications are clear: this procurement will define the Philippines’ artillery capabilities for decades. Whether the Czech DITA’s brute-force automation or the French CAESAR’s nimble lethality prevails, the decision signals Manila’s resolve to fortify its deterrent posture—one 155mm shell at a time.

- ASEAN/News

CTTO 📷

|The Army’s pick between the terrain-ready DITA and rapid ‘shoot-and-scoot’ CAESAR remains undisclosed as Manila seeks modern firepower to counter regional threats.

ASEAN/News

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