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Philippines expands military drone capabilities amid South China Sea tensions

The Philippines announced plans on August 25, 2026 to expand its unmanned aerial vehicle capabilities and acquire additional guided-missile corvettes as part of military modernization efforts. The expansion is driven by rising tensions in the South China Sea.

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Philippines to expand military drone fleet as South China Sea tensions rise

rss:scmpinternational35d ago kagi ↗

The Philippines plans to expand its unmanned ⁠capabilities, including through development ⁠and acquisition of drones as part ⁠of efforts to modernise its military, its defence chief said on Tuesday. US defence ally the Philippines also planned to acquire additional guided-missile corvettes and other major defence assets to strengthen its external defence capabilities, Defence Secretary Gilberto ‌T