Australia donates drones to strengthen Philippines maritime security amid South China sea tensions

Manila, April 10: Australia's contribution of 20 advanced drones to the Philippines underscored Manila's urgent requirement to improve its maritime domain awareness, following a tense incident in the South China Sea just days earlier, where Philippine and Chinese coast guard ships came close to a collision, according to a report by South China Morning Post.

During a ceremony on Tuesday in Bataan province, Australia's ambassador to Manila, Hae Kyong Yu, stated that the donation of unmanned aerial systems valued at 34 million pesos (USD 592,000) demonstrated Australia's dedication to civil maritime collaboration with the Philippines. Other current joint efforts include vessel remediation, postgraduate scholarships, operational training, marine protection, and annual Law of the Sea courses, the South China Morning Post reported.

Yu highlighted, "I am pleased to deliver this package of state-of-the-art drones. It is a tangible example of our increased maritime cooperation with the Philippines and a contribution that supports the Philippine coastguard's modernisation efforts."

According to the South China Morning Post, Yu also mentioned that Australia would provide four days of drone-operator training to 30 members of the Philippine coastguard. Analysts note that the drones will enable continuous, real-time surveillance of large areas in the West Philippine Sea--Manila's designation for the South China Sea, which it claims as part of its exclusive economic zone--where Beijing's territorial claims intersect with those of Manila.

Chris Gardiner, CEO of the Institute for Regional Security, stated that uncrewed and automated air, surface, and underwater systems represent the future of warfare. In light of China's assertive territorial claims, growing navy, vast fishing fleet, and maritime militia, Gardiner emphasised that Manila must urgently invest in systems to enhance its maritime domain awareness, South China Morning Post reported.

Australia does not have any territorial disputes with China at present. However, Canberra's increasing naval and air presence in the Indo-Pacific highlights its commitment to freedom of navigation and security, as the West works to counter China's growing influence.

Reader Comments

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Sarah T.

This is a great step forward for regional security! The drones will help monitor those disputed waters more effectively. Kudos to Australia for supporting the Philippines 🇦🇺🤝🇵🇭

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Miguel R.

While I appreciate the assistance, I wonder if this is enough. China has been building artificial islands with military installations. Drones are helpful but we might need more substantial defense systems.

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James K.

The training component is crucial! Technology is only as good as the people operating it. Glad to see they're investing in both equipment and skills development.

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Lina P.

As a Filipino, I feel more secure knowing our allies are helping us protect our waters. The West Philippine Sea is ours! Salamat, Australia!

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Alex W.

I hope this doesn't escalate tensions further. While I support maritime security, we need diplomatic solutions too. The region can't afford a conflict.

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Tina L.

The article mentions this is part of broader cooperation - that's the real win here. Strong partnerships in the region will help maintain stability in the long run.

We welcome thoughtful discussions from our readers. Please keep comments respectful and on-topic.