(DEFENCE SECURITY ASIA) – The Philippine military has officially requested Japan’s air defense system, believed to be the Type 81, which is soon to be retired from the Japan Self-Defense Forces.
It is unclear whether Manila intends to purchase the Japanese air defense system or if it will be part of Japan’s defense aid to the Philippines.
The former Japanese Defense Minister, Onodera Itsunori, confirmed Manila’s interest in acquiring the soon-to-be-retired Japanese air defense system, as noted by Filipino defense blogger Max Montero.
In addition to the Type 81, Japan also possesses the Improved HAWK air defense system, which is also nearing the end of its service, along with other air defense systems such as the Type 11 and Type 03.
Defense relations between the Philippines and Japan have strengthened in recent years, driven by shared concerns over China’s behavior, particularly in the South China Sea.
Recently, the Philippines and Japan signed a defense agreement allowing military personnel from both countries to be stationed in each other’s territories.
The defense agreement, known as the “Reciprocal Access Agreement,” was signed by Japanese Foreign Minister Yoko Kamikawa and Philippine Defense Secretary Gilberto Teodoro in Manila, witnessed by Philippine President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.
However, the agreement requires ratification by both countries before it can be enforced.
Under this agreement, Japanese military personnel are permitted to be deployed in the Philippines for joint military training, while Philippine military personnel are allowed to undergo training in Japan.
Regional observers expect that following this agreement, the Philippines and Japan will conduct more joint military exercises, with the possibility of Japan stationing its military personnel in the Southeast Asian nation on a rotational basis.
Chinese and Filipino coast guard and naval vessels have been involved in several confrontations in disputed waters, including an incident last month where Chinese coast guard personnel boarded a boat, armed with knives and spears, and rammed a Philippine vessel delivering aid.
Japan also faces overlapping claims with China over the ownership of the Senkaku Islands, located between Taiwan and Okinawa.
The Type 81 short-range air defense system was developed by Toshiba to replace other air defense systems such as the 75mm M51 Skysweeper and the M15A1 37mm/12.7mm.
Development of the Type 81 began in 1966, with the first missile firing test conducted in 1978.
The Type 81 system can target up to 14 kilometers.
Currently, the Japanese military still operates 57 Type 81 systems with various air defense units in the country. – DSA