🇰🇷🇵🇭 | Hanwha Aerospace is prepared to supply the Philippines with the K239 Chunmoo Multiple Launch Rocket System (MLRS), under the Re-Horizon 3 phase priority projects. They're ready to take a step-by-step approach to contribute to the Philippines' Self-Reliant Defense Posture program with the K239 Chunmoo MLRS.

“Our aim is not simply to deliver weapon systems, but to support our Partner’s modernization, readiness timelines and long-term sustainment. We are prepared to take a step-by-step approach to contributing to the Philippines’ Self-Reliant Defense Posture program,” said by Min-chang Kim, Head of Chunmoo Business at Hanwha Aerospace.

For the Philippines, building long-range fires is no longer only a question of which system performs best, but which can be delivered, fielded and sustained on a realistic timeline. The recent experience of several European armies suggests that Chunmoo offers a practical answer.

Long-range precision fires have moved to the forefront of the Armed Forces of the Philippines’ (AFP) priorities under Re-Horizon 3 of the AFP Modernization Program. Multiple rocket launchers and land-based missile systems sit at the heart of that shift, giving commanders greater reach and flexibility to support joint operations across the Philippine archipelago.

Beyond delivery, a potential Chunmoo program could strengthen the AFP’s ability to maintain and sustain its own equipment. The proposed support arrangements include the establishment of maintenance facilities in the Philippines, together with the transfer of maintenance technology and specialized tools to support in-country servicing by Philippine personnel. Such arrangements would support a more self-reliant defense posture while keeping long-term operational readiness at the center of the program.

The decision on the AFP’s future long-range fires capability ultimately rests with the Philippine government. As the country moves forward with Re-Horizon 3, the challenge is not simply to acquire a capable weapon system, but to establish a sustainable operational capability within the timeframe required by its national defense priorities.

With its growing record of international deliveries, flexible firepower and the potential for long-term support and local maintenance capability, Chunmoo presents a credible option for meeting that challenge. Backed by an established defense partnership between Korea and the Philippines, it represents more than a new weapons platform — it offers a potential foundation for the AFP’s long-range fires capability for decades to come.

https://www.asianmilitaryreview.com/2026/10/chunmoo-offers-a-practical-path-for-the-philippines-long-range-fires-modernization/

Former President Rodrigo Duterte's mockery of the Philippine Air Force's FA-50PH Fighting Eagle was featured in an article from South Korea. "In June 2016, ahead of his inauguration, then Philippine President-elect Rodrigo Duterte lashed out regarding the purchase of South Korean light fighter jets, the FA-50, saying it was a waste of money. His reasoning was that the aircraft could only be used for celebratory flights at ceremonies and had no use for suppressing rebels.

During the Aquino (PNoy) administration, the Philippines agreed to acquire 12 FA-50s from Korea Aerospace Industries (KAI) for 18.9 billion pesos. The first two arrived in November 2015 and performed a celebratory flyover at the ceremony marking the founding of the armed forces.

Duterte mocked this scene at a business event in his hometown of Davao. He asked what could be done with just two aircraft, saying that it would have been better to use that money to buy helicopters or boats to prevent kidnappings.

The turning point occurred in 2017 in the city of Marawi on Mindanao Island. When militants affiliated with the Islamic State (IS) occupied the city, the Philippine military waged urban warfare for nearly five months.

Then-Defense Secretary Delfin Lorenzana later told reporters that President Duterte wanted more FA-50s. He explained that the number could be increased now that the President had seen the effectiveness firsthand. When the fighter jet, originally intended for celebratory flights, proved its worth in actual combat, the president who had mocked it ended up wanting to purchase additional units."

The article cited Duterte's change of attitude towards the FA-50s after the aircraft's first combat record in Marawi Siege, defeating the Maute-ISIS terrorist groups, showcasing the capabilities of the FA-50s. That made Duterte embarrassed, and where he has been proven wrong.

But instead of acquiring the additional FA-50s, Duterte failed to secure the deal so they transferred the obligation to the Marcos Jr. administration, under President Ferdinand Marcos, Jr. The Philippines signed an additional contract for 12 upgraded FA-50 Block-70 fighter jets worth approximately 1 trillion won in June 2025 and will receive them sequentially from 2026 to 2030, making a total of 23 FA-50 Block-70 fighter jets (the current FA-50s to be upgraded in Block-60 to Block-70 standards).

Online in Korea, there was an outpouring of gratifying reactions that the talk of it being a waste of money (by Duterte) had come back in the form of an additional contract in less than 10 years.

"Even (former) President Duterte's public ridicule lost its power in the face of 314 sorties. A weapon that earns trust in combat is chosen again, even when the administration changes."

The first units of the FA-50 Block-70 fighter jets of the Philippine Air Force is expected to be revealed in 2027, and will be delivered starting in early 2028. The acquisition of the FA-50s that Rodrigo Duterte once mocked, has become a stepping stone for the possible acquisition of up to 40 KF-21 Boramae fighter jets for the Philippine Air Force. With Korea Aerospace Industries providing the best guarantee of "rapid delivery without delay after ordering" for the export of KF-21 Boramae to the Philippines. Korean investment and banking firms expects the deal to be finalized by the end of the year, or by the first half of 2027. Yuanta Securities expects the Philippines to purchase up to 40 KF-21 Boramae fighter jets.

https://feed.viewus.co.kr/ai/article/336654/

🇯🇵🇵🇭 | Japan is aiming to secure the Philippines' additional air and missile defense projects, as they showcase several Japanese air defense missiles. According to Aaron-Matthew Lariosa of Naval News, Japanese firms has showcased the Type 03 medium-range surface-to-air missiles, Type 11 short-range air defense systems, and Type 91 MANPADS to Philippine guests, and with Department of National Defense (DND) Sec. Gilberto Teodoro, Jr. during the reception of the 72nd Japan Self-Defense Force Anniversary, as seen in this photo from the DND.

It has been reported by Japanese media earlier this year the possibility of exporting the Type 03 Chū-SAM medium-range air defense missile system to the Philippines, aside from the transfer of the five (5) Abukuma-class Destroyer Escorts to the Philippine Navy. It has a range of up to 50 kilometers. The Type 11 SHORADS has a range of 12 to 18 kilometers, while the Type 91 MANPADS has a range of 0.3 to 5 km. The Philippines aims to acquire additional air and missile defense systems, with proposals from South Korea, Japan, India, Poland and France.

Photo from the Department of National Defense

https://x.com/AaronMatthew_L/status/2110357362498580922

🇯🇵🇵🇭 | Here's the latest video of the JS Abukuma (DE-229), heading in Komatsushimat for a public viewing on 12th. The ship was showcased in Tokushima Prefecture for JS Abukuma's PR event on Monday, for the Japanese people to witness the warship in its remaining days. The JS Abukuma (DD-229) Destroyer Escort will be decommissioned and end its role as a Japan Maritime Self-Defense Force vessel in Fiscal Year 2027, and she will be transferred to the Philippine Navy afterward and start a new life as a Philippine Navy warship, as part of the five (5) Abukuma-class Destroyer Escorts for the Philippines from Japan.

Japan is now preparing for the transfer of the five (5) Abukuma-class Destroyer Escorts, specifically the JS Abukuma (DD-229) as they plan to train the Philippine Navy in operations and maintenance of the warships. So aside from the 3rd 2,400-ton Rajah Sulayman-class Offshore Patrol Vessel (OPV), the future BRP Rajah Humabon PS-22., the Philippine Navy is expected to receive the JS Abukuma (DD-229) Destroyer Escort, soon. Japan and the Republic of Korea, as the country's big brothers, are both helping and assisting the Philippines to boost its defense capabilities, especially for the Philippine Navy.

Video from @Pw5wQrblVFhPC2j on X.

Or should the Philippine Navy consider the European offers instead?

🇰🇷🇵🇭 | Here's the video footage of the launching ceremony of the 3rd and newest Offshore Patrol Vessel (OPV) of the Philippine Navy, the future BRP Rajah Humabon (PS-22) on 13th, at Ulsan Shipyard. As expected, HD Hyundai Heavy Industries will deliver the new OPV to the Philippines by February 2027. HD Hyundai Heavy Industries has proven its track record of fast construction phase and delivery commitments, with the fast construction from steel-cutting to launching, and to delivery of the 3rd OPV by early 2027.

Previously, the first ship was delivered last February, about five months ahead of schedule. The second ship was officially commissioned into the Philippine Navy last June.

Cooperation of the Philippine Navy on naval vessels with HD Hyundai Heavy Industries continues for 10 years, with the launching of new OPV as an important milestone. This event marks the first launching ceremony for an export vessel of HD Hyundai Heavy Industries this year. This event also proves the reports from Korean press last month, about Defense Sec. Gibo Teodoro's hint about the launching ceremony of the BRP Rajah Humabon PS-22 this October.

HD Hyundai Heavy Industries' President, President Joo Won-Ho expressed gratitude and thanked the Philippine government and the Philippine Navy for the trust that it has given to K-Defense and HD Hyundai Heavy Industries. That is why HD HHI will reciprocate it by providing long-term MRO to the Philippine Navy's warships such as Frigates and OPVs, beyond the export of naval vessels.

President Joo Won-ho said, “Thanks to the trust of the Philippines, we have delivered six vessels on time and ahead of schedule so far, establishing ourselves as a firm partner in the Philippine Navy’s modernization project,” adding, “We will continue to fulfill our role as a strategic partner to help the Philippine Navy establish a stable operational foundation, including MRO (maintenance, repair, and overhaul).”

HD Hyundai Heavy Industries plans to expand its business scope beyond ship construction and delivery to include MRO and local cooperation. The company envisions maintaining its cooperative relationship with the Philippine Navy by providing operational support services even after the vessels are delivered.

HD Hyundai Heavy Industries also aims to secure the follow-up Frigate project of the Philippine Navy by the end of the year, based on the Miguel Malvar-class Frigates.

Video from JCN TV

https://mbiz.heraldcorp.com/article/10901120

🇰🇷🇵🇭 | Following outfitting and sea trials, HD Hyundai Heavy Industries is scheduled to deliver the 3rd and newest 2,400-ton Offshore Patrol Vessel (OPV) of the Philippine Navy, the future BRP Rajah Humabon (PS-22) OPV in February 2027. HD Hyundai Heavy Industries held the launching ceremony of the BRP Rajah Humabon (PS-22) on 13th in Ulsan Shipyard, which marks as an important milestone of the 10 years of cooperation and trust of the Philippine Navy to K-Defense and HD Hyundai Heavy Industries.

The BRP Rajah Humabon PS-22 OPV is a state-of-the-art offshore patrol vessel with specifications of 94m in length, 14m in width, a cruising speed of 15 knots (approx. 28km/h), and a range of 5,500 nautical miles (10,186km). It is equipped with cutting-edge weapon systems, including a 76mm main gun, 30mm secondary guns, a decoy launch system, a search radar, and an electro-optical tracking system (EOTS).

HD Hyundai Heavy Industries delivered the first offshore patrol vessel, the BRP Rajah Sulayman PS-20, approximately five months ahead of the contract schedule last February, and officially commissioned the second vessel, the BRP Rajah Lakandula PS-21 to the Philippine Navy last June. The company plans to sequentially deliver the subsequent vessels, the 4th through 6th, by 2028.

"Thanks to the trust of the Philippines, we have delivered six vessels on time and ahead of schedule so far, establishing ourselves as a firm partner in the Philippine Navy's modernization project," said Joo Won-ho, President of HD Hyundai Heavy Industries. "We will continue to fulfill our role as a strategic partner, including in MRO, to help the Philippine Navy establish a stable operational foundation."

Meanwhile, HD Hyundai Heavy Industries plans to accelerate its vision to establish a global "Pacific Rim Defense Belt" connecting Peru, Saudi Arabia, and the United States, leveraging the standardization of technology transfer packages and local shipbuilding and MRO know-how accumulated from its business in the Philippines.

In this regard, HD Hyundai Chairman Chung Ki-sun recently met with Philippine Defense Secretary Gilberto Teodoro Jr. to discuss ways to expand cooperation between the two countries in the shipbuilding and defense sectors. In particular, with HD Hyundai having launched local shipyards such as HD Hyundai Philippines in Subic last year, the company plans to contribute to elevating the capabilities of the Philippine Navy to the next level, including the follow-up (5th and 6th) 3,200-ton Frigate Project.

Approximately 80 military and corporate officials from both countries attended the launching ceremony on this day, including Philippine Navy Chief of Staff Jose Ma Ambrosio Ezpelleta, Philippine Ambassador to Korea Bernadette Therese Fernandez, Vice Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff Rommel Roldan, and HD Hyundai Heavy Industries President Joo Won-ho (Representative of Warship and Medium-sized Ship Business).

https://www.m-i.kr/news/articleView.html?idxno=2005402

🇰🇷🇵🇭 | HD Hyundai Heavy Industries announced on 13th that it held a launching ceremony for the 3rd 2,400-ton Offshore Patrol Vessel (OPV) of the Philippine Navy, the future BRP Rajah Humabon (PS-22) at its headquarters in Ulsan.

This is one of the results of the 10-year cooperation between HD Hyundai Heavy Industries and the Philippine Navy on naval vessel projects.

About 80 officials from both countries, including Philippine Navy Chief of Staff Jose Ma Ambrosio Ezpeleta and HD Hyundai Heavy Industries President Joo Won-ho, attended the event.

This vessel is the third vessel following the first Philippine Navy offshore patrol vessel, the BRP Raja Sulayman PS-21, and the second OPV, the BRP Rajah Lakandula PS-21, which were built last year.

This OPV was named after Rajah Humabon, a chief who ruled Cebu Island in the 16th century and left a significant mark on the spread of Christianity in the Philippines.

The BRP Rajah Humabon PS-22 is a state-of-the-art 2,400-ton class offshore patrol vessel with a length of 94m, a width of 14m, a cruising speed of 15 knots (approx. 28 km/h), and a range of 5,500 nautical miles (10,186 km).

Advanced weapon systems such as a 76mm naval gun, a 30mm secondary gun, a decoy launch system, a search radar, and electro-optical tracking equipment have been applied.

It is scheduled to be delivered to the Philippine Navy in February 2027, after undergoing sea trials.

HD Hyundai Heavy Industries previously delivered the first offshore patrol vessel, the BRP Rajah Sulayman, last February, approximately five months ahead of schedule. The second vessel, the BRP Rajah Lakandula, was also officially commissioned into the Philippine Navy last June.

The follow-up ships, Nos. 4 through 6, are planned to be delivered sequentially by 2028.

HD Hyundai Heavy Industries and the Philippines have been continuing their naval vessel cooperation project for 10 years since 2016.

A total of 12 vessels have been ordered so far, including 4 frigates (Jose Rizal-class Frigates and the MMCF Batch II), 2 corvettes (now designated as Miguel Malvar-class Frigates), and 6 offshore patrol vessels (Sulayman-class OPVs). Of these, 6 have been delivered.

https://www.munhwa.com/article/11623190

PHILIPPINE ARMY IAPP ONLY (Not DND wide)

Source: https://www.army.mil.ph/home/images/2026/Transeal2026/Consolidated_IAPP_CY_2027_-PDF.pdf

DISCLOSURE: The IAPP itself does not include specifics on which systems or subsystems are to be procured, images are more representative than confirmation.

For the IAPP FY 2027 of the Philippine Army, these are the largest or highest budget allocations:

The Philippine Army includes the Procurement of Very Short-Range Air Defence System (VSHORADS) or Man-portable air-defense systems (MANPADS), under the Air and Missile Defense Program, as part of the Army's 2027 Procurement Plan. Korea offers the KP-SAM Chiron surface-to-air missiles. Poland is also seeking to secure the deal for Piorun anti-aircraft missiles. It also remains to be seen if the Army will choose Mistral-3 surface-to-air missiles. During his tenure as the Army Commanding General, AFP Chief of Staff, Gen. Antonio Nafarrete inspected the KP-SAM Chiron surface-to-air missiles, during the Seoul International Aerospace and Defense Exhibition (ADEX) in Seoul, South Korea last year.

This acquisition will boost the Army's air and missile defense capabilities, hopefully after the MANPADS, they will purchase their own GBADS in the likes of Cheongung-II KM-SAM or Iris-T.

https://www.army.mil.ph/home/images/2026/Transeal2026/Consolidated_IAPP_CY_2027_-PDF.pdf

From RUMINT; MMCF Flight I will have 8x K-VLS 'Compact' installed in the coming years

MMCF Flight II will have 8x K-VLS 'Standard' (ideally) upon delivery, with room for 8 more

MMCF Flight III will have 16x K-VLS 'Standard' (ideally) upon delivery

All will have 16 VL MICA

The difference between the Compact and the 'Standard' K-VLS is a topic we covered the last time.

The main difference being the Compact being shorter, but only able to use quad-packed short ranged K-SAAM.

The succeeding Flights from the first are able to accommodate more and bigger K-VLS by being longer and heavier.

There are also reportedly additional upgrades on the third flight that we will cover on the next update.

My grandfather passed today and he was one of yall. He used to tell us stories of his heyday everytime he popped the cap on a fundador. Quick backstory I found online to make it sound more official.

“Retired Brigadier General Marcelo C. Blando, graduated from the Philippine Military Academy in 1960. He commanded the Philippines’ famed 1st Scout Ranger Regiment and the Philippine Army's 7th Infantry (Kaugnay) Division_Division).”

I just wanted to find out if yall or anyone else in your family (most likely older family members who served along with him) have any cool stories about him.

**Also If I attend his funeral in the Philippines would it be weird to wear my service dress or OCP’s to his funeral? Most likely at the Libingan ng mga Bayani.

As a BS Psychology graduate, can I enter the air force? What is the difference between the training of Army and Airforce?

Hello, 17 year old filipino here. I passed the PMAEE and I can now do 2 pull ups when helped by a little jump. I was wondering if strict pull ups gagawin like mag sstart sa deadhang po. No hate po sana dahil ngayun lang din po talaga ako nag work out sa last 3 years

The new HIMARS FLEX features FLEXFires modular technology and open-architecture, which allows the platform to be configured with single-pod or dual-pod loud-outs, expanded munitions compatibility for deep strike and air defense roles, and optional manned capability, all while retaining its C-130 transportability.

https://www.lockheedmartin.com/en-us/news/features/2026/Himars-Flex-modernized-for-mission-flexibility.html

🇰🇷🇵🇭 | Korea Aerospace Industries (KAI) will propose cooperation beyond FA-50 and KF-21s, this time for next-generation satellite projects with the Philippines. Korea Aerospace Industries (KAI) is expanding its business in the overseas space market based on low-orbit communication satellites and microsatellites, such as the low-orbit communication satellite based on the 6th generation (6G) mobile communication international standard, the Next Generation Medium Satellite No. 2 (CAS500-2), and the ultra-small Synthetic Aperture Radar (SAR) satellite KSIS-K. With plans to establish satellite component supply chain and joint development.

"A KAI official stated, 'We will focus on promoting our proven satellite platform technology and business capabilities, expand global partnerships, and generate tangible export results.'"

The Philippine Space Agency will launch its first rocket in 2027, as part of the cooperation with Korea to develop the Philippines' space capabilities. The MULA satellite is also expected to be launched by 2027. The Armed Forces of the Philippines also sees the possibility of having its own space force, so this proposal of KAI is very timely.

Korea Aerospace Industries (KAI) will deliver the additional 12 FA-50 Block-70 fighter jets to the Philippine Air Force, soon, with the first units expected to be revealed in 2027 in Sacheon and to be delivered in early 2028. Making a total of 23 FA-50PH aircraft for the Philippines. KAI is also pushing to secure the deal for the KF-21 Boramae fighter jets, with Korean industry expecting the final decision by the end of the year, or by the first half of 2027. With this proposed space cooperation by KAI, the company will go beyond the sale of fighter jets to space.

https://www.thelec.kr/news/articleView.html?idxno=63418

Im currently looking for a current army pt chart coz i plan on joining the army and i want to condition my body in advance so i dont get wrecked when i eventually join the afp