US to deploy anti-ship missiles, drones to PH

The United States is set to deploy the Navy-Marine Expeditionary Ship Interdiction System (NMESIS), a mobile anti-ship missile launcher, and unmanned surface vessels in the Philippines.

This deployment is part of the Trump administration's strategy to prioritize the country's position in the Indo-Pacific and strengthen deterrence against China's presence in the region.

The initiative was agreed upon during US Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth's recent visit to Manila, aimed at accelerating the defense partnership between the US and the Philippines.

International studies expert Prof. Renato de Castro explained that Manila agreed to an 'integrated deterrence' with Washington to strengthen defense, emphasizing the importance of 'peace through strength' based on deterrence.

These new systems will be integrated into the upcoming Balikatan exercises, allowing both US and Philippine forces to train together on utilizing these advanced defense capabilities.

Secretary Hegseth stated that these systems will enhance the ability of both forces to defend Philippine sovereignty.