Philippines Looks To Sweden For Defence Technology Transfer

The Philippine’s Department of National Defense (DND) is ready to work together with Sweden to facilitate defence technology transfer, and research and development on the path towards a self-reliant defence posture and better equip themselves to safeguard their sovereignty. In a meeting between Sweden’s secretary for foreign affairs Jan Knutsson and DND senior undersecretary Irineo Espino, the former highlighted Sweden’s considerably cost-effective military assets, particularly its aircraft – the Saab JAS-39 Gripen. The fighter jet was offered to the Philippines Air Force (PAF) in August of last year to help build up their airpower. Additionally, the pair discussed common security challenges affecting both countries including climate change, the Russo-Ukrainian War, the South China Sea dispute, Taiwan-China tensions and cyber security.

Also on the agenda was the implementation of the memorandum of understanding (MOU) regarding the Cooperation in the Acquisition of Defense Materiel, updates on the Revised Armed Forces of the Philippines Modernization Program and funding requirements, and the Philippine procurement law. shp/adj/dl (Pix:Philippine Information Agency)