Aerospace firm willing to help in building PH defense capabilities

BERLIN—President Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr. met with officials from Airbus Asia-Pacific here as he welcomed the latter’s intention to support the modernization program of the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP).

Marcos and Anand Stanley, president and head of region of Airbus Asia-Pacific, discussed matters regarding partnerships in strengthening the country’s capabilities in the aerospace sector. This meeting was part of Marcos’ working visit to Germany.

Airbus expressed its willingness to help the Philippines build its own in-country defense capabilities. It also wants to enhance its joint venture partnership with the Philippine Aerospace Development Corporation (PADC).

As one of the countries that was key to the creation of Airbus, Germany has a rich history of aircraft design and construction. It is home to some of Airbus’ largest and most important operations.

Airbus develops cutting-edge technologies and tailor-made products that reinforce national security, including military helicopters, satellite programs for secure military communications and the Eurofighter—Europe’s world-class multirole fighter jet.

Earlier, Defense Secretary Gilbert Teodoro Jr. said that Marcos already approved revisions for “Horizon 3” of the Philippine military’s modernization program.

He said these would range from domain awareness, connectivity, intelligence capabilities of C4ISTAR communication, command and control, and deterrence capabilities on maritime and aerial domains.

Meanwhile, the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) said that Marcos has ensured the Philippine government’s commitment when it comes to assisting the company in their localization efforts.

This will include the linkages to the country’s electronics and aerospace manufacturing industry. — VDV, GMA Integrated News