Japan signs $10 million security assistance deal with Philippines

Japan on December 5 signed a security assistance agreement worth 1.6 billion yen ($10.65 million) with the Philippines as the two countries step up defense cooperation.

According to Reuters, the agreement is part of the Official Security Assistance (OSA) framework to help the Philippines enhance its maritime surveillance and security capabilities.

Philippine, Japanese and US forces conduct exercises on the coast of Bataan (Philippines) on June 6, 2023

Under the agreement, Japan will provide the Philippine Navy with equipment such as rigid-hulled rubber boats, coastal radar systems and other equipment to enhance the Southeast Asian country’s maritime domain awareness capabilities. In addition, the Philippine Air Force will also receive equipment to support its airborne surveillance radar system, which will enhance its monitoring and management capabilities.

"This agreement is expected to contribute to maintaining and strengthening regional security and enhancing the security of important sea lanes and is of great significance to Japan's security," the Japanese Embassy in Manila said. The Philippines is the only country to receive such large aid for two consecutive years, according to the Japanese Embassy in Manila.

For his part, Philippine Foreign Secretary Enrique Manalo called the new agreement another "milestone" following the Reciprocal Access Agreement (RAA) between Japan and the Philippines in July.

"The growing security cooperation reflects the shared commitment of Japan and the Philippines to regional peace and stability," the Philippine Department of National Defense said in a statement.

In another development, the US Space Force launched a new unit at Yokota Air Base west of Tokyo on December 4 with the aim of enhancing space defense and bilateral deterrence capabilities. According to Kyodo, the new unit is expected to enhance Japan's space surveillance and missile warning capabilities by providing advice and expertise.

"US Space Force Japan will serve as a hub to enhance cooperation and synchronization between the US and Japan on national security," said Brigadier General Anthony Mastalir, commander of US Space Force in the Indo- Pacific .

Earlier, Japanese Defense Minister Gen Nakatani and his US counterpart Lloyd Austin confirmed the establishment of the unit during a meeting last month in Australia.

Source: https://thanhnien.vn/nhat-ban-ky-thoa-thuan-ho-tro-an-ninh-10-trieu-usd-voi-philippines-185241205214338791.htm