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It appears that the Philippine Army is steadily building dedicated anti-tank platoon units—highly mobile, rapid-response...
31/07/2026

It appears that the Philippine Army is steadily building dedicated anti-tank platoon units—highly mobile, rapid-response units that can be deployed anywhere in the country to provide an immediate anti-armor capability whenever needed.

Recently, we featured the Philippine Army's completed acquisition of the Medium Multi-Purpose Assault Weapon (MMPAW), which was awarded to Instalaza S.A. While it remains to be seen whether the Army will receive the reusable C90 or the Hispano MPW, both systems fire the standard 90mm munitions manufactured by Instalaza.

At the same time, the Philippine Army has already begun receiving the ATK-1 Raybolt anti-tank guided missile systems ordered from Lig Nex1 during the last quarter of 2024.

Reports also indicate that the Philippine Army is considering bringing the M67 90mm recoilless rifle back into service, a topic that Bons Cue Ph discussed in a post on June 6, 2025.

Rather than being carried by infantry, the M67 is expected to be mounted on light tactical vehicles such as the KIA KM450 4×4 troop carrier, transforming it into a highly mobile fire support platform. A similar approach could also be adopted for the TOW anti-tank missile system, although it remains unclear whether it would be mounted on tactical vehicles or integrated into selected M113 armored personnel carriers.

The Philippine Army could establish a layered anti-tank capability. The RPG-7, which has long been in AFP service, would continue to serve as the standard anti-armor weapon at the infantry platoon level. More advanced systems such as the Hispano MPW or C90, together with the ATK-1 Raybolt, would equip dedicated anti-tank units, while vehicle-mounted M67 recoilless rifles and TOW missile systems would provide heavier, longer-range fire support.

Collectively, these weapon systems offer effective engagement ranges from approximately 500 meters to 3,000 meters, making them effective not only against armored vehicles but also against bunkers and fortified positions. Such capabilities would be valuable in both counter-landing operations and engagements against heavily fortified insurgent strongholds or Marawi-siege-type combat scenarios.

It would not be surprising if the AFP eventually acquires an even longer-range ATGM capability, such as the Spike NLOS already in service with the Philippine Navy. With an engagement range of up to 30 kilometers, a land-based version would provide the Philippine Army with a significant stand-off anti-armor capability, allowing it to engage high-value targets well beyond the reach of its current systems.

All of these lighter anti-armor systems can be rapidly airlifted to different parts of the country, providing a highly mobile and responsive anti-tank capability. Unlike armored units, which require extensive logistical support and significant time to deploy, these anti-tank units can be transported and brought into action much more quickly.

With the Comprehensive Archipelagic Defense Concept serving as the guiding strategy, mobility will be a decisive advantage. The ability to rapidly deploy forces and anti-armor assets across the archipelago will be critical to responding swiftly to emerging threats wherever they arise.


31/07/2026

The AC-130J Ghostrider is a heavily modified variant of the legendary C-130J Super Hercules, purpose-built to provide devastating close air support for ground forces.

The aircraft has repeatedly demonstrated its combat effectiveness in numerous operations, delivering precise and sustained firepower in support of troops on the ground. However, it is rare to see the AC-130 engage naval targets. During the RIMPAC 2026 SINKEX (Sinking Exercise), the Ghostrider got the opportunity to use formidable firepower directed against the retired USS Mobile Bay (CG-53), a Ticonderoga-class guided missile cruiser.

The AC-130J was one of several air and naval assets that participated in the exercise, joining other aircraft and warships in the coordinated attack on the target vessel.

Flying its signature pylon-turn attack pattern, the gunship unleashed sustained fire from its 105mm howitzer and 30mm Bushmaster cannon, repeatedly striking the decommissioned cruiser. The latest AC-130J variant is also capable of carrying AGM-114 Hellfire missiles, although it remains unclear whether they were employed during the attack on USS Mobile Bay.

Although the AC-130 is primarily designed for close air support, its powerful arsenal also makes it highly effective against lightly armed or unarmored surface vessels. Its ability to deliver accurate, continuous, and overwhelming fire can quickly disable or cripple smaller naval targets.

We would also like to acknowledge the Defense Visual Information Distribution Service for the video.


30/07/2026

In this video, obtained by Reuters through SeaSat, a SeaSat Lightfish sea drone can be seen operating in close proximity to a People's Liberation Army Navy (PLAN) Type 052 guided-missile destroyer.

According to reports, the incident took place last June 16, 2026, approximately 105 kilometers northwest of Luzon Island, well within the Philippines' Exclusive Economic Zone.

The footage shows the unmanned surface vessel maneuvering remarkably close to the Chinese warship while conducting surveillance using its electro-optical and infrared cameras. It serves as a striking demonstration of how a relatively inexpensive unmanned system can effectively gather intelligence on a billion-dollar naval asset.

At the time the video was recorded, the Philippines and the United States were conducting their fourth bilateral Philippines–U.S. Maritime Cooperative Activity (MCA), held from June 14 to 19 across several areas of the West Philippine Sea. The Chinese destroyer seen in the footage was likely one of the PLAN vessels deployed to monitor the exercise.

The SeaSat Lightfish was probably among several unmanned surface vessels deployed to enhance maritime domain awareness and monitor any unauthorized activities that could affect the ongoing Philippine-U.S. maritime drills.

It remains unclear whether the Chinese destroyer was completely unaware of the USV's presence or simply underestimated its proximity. If the vessel failed to detect the drone until it was already nearby, it raises important questions about visual watchkeeping and close-range surveillance procedures of the Chinese Navy. Modern sensors are invaluable, but they are most effective when complemented by vigilant human lookouts.

In a wartime scenario, overlooking a small unmanned vessel could have serious consequences. Platforms like the Lightfish could be not only limited to intelligence gathering; they could even carry explosive payloads for attack missions. As unmanned systems continue to evolve, they are becoming an increasingly significant factor in modern naval warfare.


Sharing this photo courtesy of the Philippine Air Force, showing pilots from the participating nations in the ongoing Ex...
30/07/2026

Sharing this photo courtesy of the Philippine Air Force, showing pilots from the participating nations in the ongoing Exercise Pitch Black 2026 posing for a group photo.

This is what strong international defense partnerships look like: sharing expertise, strengthening interoperability, and learning from one another to enhance their capabilities and professionalism.

Many of these nations also maintain close defense ties with the Philippines, built on mutual trust, shared values, and a common commitment to upholding international law and promoting a free, open, and rules-based Indo-Pacific.


One of the more surprising announcements made by President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. during his State of the Nation Address w...
29/07/2026

One of the more surprising announcements made by President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. during his State of the Nation Address was that the Philippines is preparing for its first liquid-fueled sounding rocket launch from Philippine soil, targeted for 2027.

According to the President, the rocket will be launched from Cagayan Province, which is being positioned as the country's gateway to space and the future home of the Philippines' first spaceport.

The foundations of this ambitious project were laid when a Memorandum of Agreement was signed during the Philippines–Korea Business Forum in March 2026. The signing was witnessed by President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. and South Korean President Lee Jae Myung during the latter's official visit to the Philippines.

The initiative is a partnership between the Philippine Space Agency (PhilSA), the Cagayan Economic Zone Authority (CEZA), and South Korean aerospace company Perigee Aerospace Inc., a firm specializing in launch vehicles, propulsion systems, and spacecraft components.

As part of the collaboration, Perigee Aerospace also provided intensive training for selected PhilSA engineers through a multi-stage, three-week hands-on sounding rocket program held in South Korea from October to November 2025.

Unlike orbital launch vehicles that place satellites into space, sounding rockets are designed for suborbital missions. They are primarily used to test new technologies, collect atmospheric data, and conduct scientific experiments before returning to Earth. Although they do not reach orbit, they provide invaluable experience in rocket design, propulsion, flight systems, and mission operations.

For a country that is only beginning to establish its rocket technology capabilities, a sounding rocket program is a practical and important first step toward developing indigenous launch technologies.

The rocket selected for this initiative is the Blue Whale 0.1, a 3.2-meter-long sounding rocket with a diameter of 190 mm. It completed its maiden launch in Jeju, South Korea, in December 2021, demonstrating the platform's viability for research and technology development.

More importantly, this collaboration provides the Philippines with an opportunity to build local expertise, develop engineering know-how, and gain practical experience with rocket systems alongside South Korean partners. These capabilities could eventually support more advanced launch vehicle projects capable of carrying scientific or commercial payloads into space.

While the planned sounding rocket launch may seem like a modest beginning, it represents a milestone for the country's emerging space program. The knowledge and technologies gained from this initiative could lay the groundwork for future indigenous rocket systems, benefiting not only scientific research and commercial space activities but also potential civilian and national defense applications in the years ahead.

It appears that President Marcos Jr. is pursuing a rocket program of his own, much like the initiative launched by his late father in the 1970s through Project Santa Barbara. While the two programs differ significantly in purpose and scope, both reflect an ambition to advance the Philippines' indigenous rocket capabilities.


29/07/2026

Sharing this short video of the Philippine Air Force's FA-50 light fighters performing a fly-past over the Mindil Beach last July 23, 2026 as part of the ongoing Pitch Black 2026 exercise.

Two of the four Philippine FA-50s deployed to Australia took part in the fly-past, making a low pass before spectators. Their appearance was just one of many aerial displays featuring aircraft from the various air forces participating in Pitch Black 2026, showcasing the multinational nature of the exercise.

We would like to acknowledge the Aviation Spotters Online for this footage. And Special Thanks as well to Mark Pourzenic for allowing Bons Cue Ph to use their photos and videos of the Pitch Black Exercise.


28/07/2026

RIMPAC 2026's SINKEX (Sinking Exercise) featured two of the largest and toughest targets ever used in the exercise: the decommissioned amphibious assault ship USS Peleliu (LHA-5) and the decommissioned Ticonderoga-class guided missile cruiser USS Mobile Bay (CG-53).

Both vessels enjoyed long and distinguished careers with the United States Navy, serving in multiple theaters of operation and sailing across the world's oceans. After decades of faithful service, their final mission was to become target ships in RIMPAC 2026, helping demonstrate the effectiveness of modern naval warfare.

Throughout the exercise, both ships endured hit after hit from an array of advanced weapon systems. They were engaged by Spike NLOS missiles launched from U.S. Army AH-64 Apache attack helicopters, the U.S. Navy's F/A-18 Super Hornets armed with AGM-158C LRASM (Long-Range Anti-Ship Missiles), the Japan Ground Self-Defense Force's Type 12 Surface-to-Ship Missile System, and the U.S. Army's M142 HIMARS.

They also came under attack from naval forces, including the Japan Maritime Self-Defense Force's JS Kongō (DDG-173) and the Spanish Navy's Álvaro de Bazán, both employing Harpoon anti-ship missiles; even submarines participated in this exercise.

For the sailors who once served aboard USS Peleliu and USS Mobile Bay, watching their former ships endure such punishment must have been bittersweet. Yet the remarkable resilience both vessels displayed, absorbing repeated strikes before finally succumbing, is a testament not only to the exceptional quality of their construction but also to the dedication of the generations of sailors who maintained and cared for what many considered their second home.

We would also like to acknowledge the Defense Visual Information Distribution Service for providing the video.


As their fellow sailors take part in the ongoing RIMPAC 2026 naval exercise, the Philippine Navy and Philippine Coast Gu...
28/07/2026

As their fellow sailors take part in the ongoing RIMPAC 2026 naval exercise, the Philippine Navy and Philippine Coast Guard, alongside units from the United States Navy and the Japan Maritime Self-Defense Force, successfully concluded the 17th Multilateral Maritime Cooperative Activity (MMCA), held from July 21 to 26, 2026.

The Armed Forces of the Philippines deployed several assets for the exercise, led by the Philippine Navy's BRP Antonio Luna (FFG-15), supported by Philippine Air Force aircraft, including the A-29 Super Tucano and FA-50PH Fighting Eagle.

The Philippine Coast Guard, meanwhile, deployed the Parola-class patrol vessel BRP Malabrigo (MRRV-4402) and the Magbanua-class patrol vessel BRP Melchora Aquino (MRRV-9702).

The United States Navy participated with the Independence-class littoral combat ship USS Santa Barbara (LCS-32), while the Japan Maritime Self-Defense Force deployed the Murasame-class destroyer JS Yudachi (DD-103).

Throughout the five-day activity, the participating forces conducted a wide range of maritime interoperability drills, including Communication Exercises (COMMEX), Replenishment at Sea (RAS), Division Tactics (DIVTACS), Officer of the Watch (OOW) Maneuvers, Rotary Wing Deck Landing Qualifications (DLQ), Photo Exercise (PHOTEX), Vertical Replenishment (VERTREP), Cross-Deck Landing, and coordinated fly-by operations.

This marks the third MMCA conducted by the Philippines together with its close allies in 2026, following the previous activities held in February and April. With regional maritime security remaining a key priority, more MMCAs are expected to be conducted before the end of the year, further strengthening interoperability, coordination, and strategic cooperation between the Philippines and its key partners, the United States, Japan, and Australia.


President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.'s State of the Nation Address lasted about an hour and a half, highlighting the achieveme...
27/07/2026

President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.'s State of the Nation Address lasted about an hour and a half, highlighting the achievements of his administration and outlining its priorities for the remaining years of his term.

As in his previous SONAs, the President once again addressed the growing tensions in the West Philippine Sea. He reaffirmed the Philippines' resolve to defend its sovereignty, declaring that the country "will not yield" to any oppressor.

Those words were firm and reassuring. But they also raise an important question: Will they be matched by concrete action?

One of the most meaningful ways to demonstrate that resolve is by accelerating the modernization of the Armed Forces of the Philippines and strengthening the Philippine Coast Guard. A credible defense capability remains one of the strongest deterrents against external aggression.

Before the SONA, Malacañang certified several priority bills for Congress to act upon this year. However, one notable omission was House Bill 8059, the proposed legislation seeking to amend the decades-old Presidential Decree 415. The measure would allow the Department of National Defense to access a significantly higher ceiling for both foreign and domestic loans to finance major defense acquisitions.

Its absence from the administration's list of urgent measures raises legitimate questions about how much urgency is truly being placed on defense modernization.

Many of our ASEAN neighbors continue to rapidly modernize their armed forces—acquiring new warships, advanced missile systems, fighter aircraft, and other strategic capabilities. Meanwhile, the Philippines still appears to rely heavily on second-hand equipment and excess defense articles from allies to fill critical capability gaps.

Public sentiment also reflects the desire for stronger national defense.

A survey conducted in June showed that 45% of Filipinos identified modernizing the AFP and the PCG as the country's top priority in defending its maritime rights, while only 33% favored strengthening alliances and expanding joint military exercises. The results suggest that many Filipinos believe partnerships with allies are important, but they also want to see a stronger and more capable military and coast guard that can independently protect the country's interests.

This view is consistent with Defense Secretary Gilberto Teodoro Jr.'s recent remarks. While emphasizing the importance of alliances, he also warned that relying too heavily on partners without making serious investments in our own defense capabilities would ultimately weaken the country's long-term security posture.

Taken together, both public opinion and the assessment of the country's own defense leadership point to the same conclusion: the government must demonstrate tangible progress in strengthening the AFP and the PCG. Modernization should not simply remain a long-term aspiration; it must become a sustained national priority supported by legislation, funding, and decisive implementation.

President Marcos has repeatedly assured the nation that the Philippines will not yield in defending its sovereignty. The challenge now is turning those words into lasting capability.

As his administration enters its remaining years, many Filipinos will be watching closely, not only for declarations of resolve, but for concrete actions that will leave the AFP and the PCG stronger, more credible, and better prepared to defend the nation's interests.

26/07/2026

What does it look like to have a front-row seat to a live sinking exercise?

This is the perspective shared by one of the United States Navy's Unmanned Surface Vessels (USVs) that participated in the SINKEX conducted on July 16 during RIMPAC 2026.

The footage shows the USV performing a close-range reconnaissance of the former USS Peleliu (LHA-5), a decommissioned Tarawa-class amphibious assault ship designated as the target vessel. Beyond surveillance, the USV also provided valuable battle damage assessment (BDA), allowing commanders to evaluate the effectiveness of the strikes delivered against the ship in real time.

In the final phase of the exercise, the same USV transitioned from an intelligence-gathering platform into an attack asset, striking the hull of USS Peleliu as an unmanned surface attack drone.

The exercise clearly demonstrates how unmanned systems are becoming an integral part of modern naval warfare. A single platform can perform multiple missions, from intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance (ISR) to battle damage assessment and direct attack, reducing risk to personnel while significantly enhancing the fleet's operational capabilities.

We would like to acknowledge the Defense Visual Information Distribution Services for the video.


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