Post-Hegseth Visit: The Philippines' Military Modernization and Strategic Engagements
The Philippines continues to advance military modernization and strategic defense partnerships, reinforcing its security posture through increased acquisitions and high-level cooperation with allies. Following Secretary Hegseth’s visit, the country has accelerated weapons procurements, including advanced missile systems, F-16 fighter jets, and a second batch of India-made BrahMos missiles, while actively engaging in large-scale joint exercises such as Balikatan 2025, Salaknib, and Cope Thunder to strengthen interoperability with U.S. forces. Manila has also expanded defense collaborations with Japan, South Korea, Australia, and France, ensuring access to cutting-edge surveillance technology and maritime capabilities. Meanwhile, Washington’s reaffirmation of its “ironclad” commitment has sustained military assistance and enhanced deterrence measures, including the deployment of ship-killer missile systems. As the Philippines reinforces its position in Indo-Pacific security, its openness to defense acquisitions presents lucrative opportunities for U.S. firms specializing in military technology and equipment. This dynamic is reflected in the Philippine Navy’s submarine procurement initiative, where European shipbuilders Fincantieri and Thyssenkrupp Marine Systems have entered an industrial cooperation agreement to strengthen their bid against established contenders—France’s Naval Group with the Scorpene, South Korea’s Hanwha Ocean with the KSS-IIIPN, and Spain’s Navantia with the S-80PN.
