The Philippines has significantly enhanced its aerial surveillance in the West Philippine Sea (WPS) with the formal turnover of 20 world-class unmanned aerial systems (UAS) from the Australian government, valued at ₱34 million.
The drones were officially received by Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) Commandant Admiral Ronnie Gil Gavan during a handover ceremony held in Mariveles, Bataan on Monday.
Australian Ambassador HK Yu led the donation of the advanced drone systems, which include 15 short-range UAS, 4 medium-range units, and one long-range drone.
According to the PCG, a team of Australian drone specialists also arrived in the Philippines to conduct a four-day training program for 30 members of the PCG Aviation Command Unmanned Aerial Vehicles Squadron.
Admiral Gavan stated that the high-tech drones would strengthen the PCG’s role as a responsible guardian of maritime laws and help maintain peace and prosperity for Filipinos and all law-abiding users of Philippine waters.
He added that the drones would allow for expanded monitoring and surveillance coverage while saving on fuel costs and minimizing risks to personnel.
Gavan also noted that the drones are not ordinary commercial units but are equipped with state-of-the-art systems, giving PCG personnel valuable exposure to advanced technology.
Apart from being deployed in the WPS, the drones will also be used for operations in densely populated PCG district areas across the country.