Indonesia and the Philippines, two Southeast Asian neighbours, share a strong defence and security partnership shaped by their maritime interests and regional stability. Over the years, their defence relationship has grown significantly, with Indonesia supplying critical military hardware to the Philippines and both nations participating in joint security initiatives. From naval assets to aircraft, and the potential for future deals in tactical vehicles and firearms, here’s a look at key moments in this evolving partnership.
A Landmark Partnership: Landing Platform Dock (LPD) Vessels
One of the most prominent milestones in the defence cooperation between Indonesia and the Philippines is the acquisition of Landing Platform Dock (LPD) vessels by the Philippine Navy. These vessels, built by Indonesia’s PT PAL, form the backbone of the Philippines’ amphibious and disaster response capabilities.
In May 2016, PT PAL delivered the first vessel, BRP Tarlac (LD-601), which was commissioned in June 2016. Following its success, the second vessel, BRP Davao del Sur (LD-602), was delivered in May 2017 and commissioned later that month. These Makassar-class LPDs have proven to be versatile, supporting a wide range of missions from troop transport to disaster relief.
In 2023, the Philippines ordered two more LPDs, with improved designs, reflecting their satisfaction with the initial batch and a growing trust in Indonesia’s shipbuilding capabilities. These vessels will further strengthen the Philippine Navy’s capacity to carry out humanitarian, logistical, and amphibious operations.
Potential New Deals: PT PAL’s Offers at Philmarine Expo 2024
At the 2024 Philippines Marine (Philmarine) Expo, Indonesia’s PT PAL showcased several of its latest offerings, including hospital ships, surface combatants, and sea research vessels. These products align with the Philippines’ growing need for enhanced maritime security and humanitarian support capabilities.
The hospital ships in particular hold immense value for the disaster-prone archipelago, where the ability to provide rapid medical care during emergencies is crucial. The potential acquisition of these ships would represent a significant boost to the Philippines’ disaster relief infrastructure.
Expanding Air Capabilities: NC-212i Aircraft
In addition to naval assets, Indonesia’s PT Dirgantara Indonesia (PTDI) has also contributed to enhancing the Philippines’ air mobility. In 2018, the Philippine Air Force acquired two NC-212i light transport aircraft, marking the beginning of a broader partnership. These aircraft are known for their versatility, capable of transporting cargo, personnel, and performing medical evacuation missions.
Recognizing the value of these aircraft, the Philippine Air Force followed up with an order for six more NC-212i units in 2023. These additional aircraft are expected to bolster the Philippines’ ability to respond to a range of challenges, from military transport to humanitarian missions, across its vast archipelago.
Missed Opportunities and New Prospects: Pindad’s Tactical Vehicles and Firearms
While not all Indonesian defence products have secured contracts, there remains interest from the Philippines in certain offerings. For instance, Indonesia’s PT Pindad had pitched its Harimau medium tank to the Philippine Army, but the bid was ultimately won by Israel’s Sabrah light tank.
Despite this, interest in Pindad’s Komodo 4×4 tactical vehicle surfaced in 2020, though no further developments have been reported since. However, in July 2024, a delegation led by the Commanding General of the Philippine Army, Lt. Gen. Roy Mabagos Galido, visited PT Pindad. This visit may open the door to future contracts, especially for Pindad’s firearm products, which were highlighted during the discussions.
Deepening Defence Cooperation: Agreements and Patrols
The defence cooperation between Indonesia and the Philippines extends beyond equipment procurement. The two nations have established a series of agreements and joint initiatives aimed at improving regional security.
The Indo-Phil Maritime Border Cooperation Agreement, in place since 1975 and renewed multiple times, allows both countries to manage security in their overlapping Exclusive Economic Zones (EEZs). The agreement focuses on combating illegal fishing, piracy, and border control, fostering a stable maritime environment in the region.
In 2014, Indonesia and the Philippines began conducting joint maritime patrols to secure their shared borders, focusing on the Celebes and Sulu Seas. These patrols aim to prevent cross-border crimes, such as human trafficking, smuggling, and piracy, while enhancing mutual maritime security.
A significant multilateral initiative came in 2019 with the Trilateral Maritime Patrol Agreement, involving Indonesia, the Philippines, and Malaysia. This agreement strengthens security in the Sulu-Celebes Seas, an area historically prone to piracy and terrorism. Coordinated sea and air patrols under this agreement have been instrumental in curbing illegal activities and securing key maritime routes.
In 2021, the Philippines and Indonesia renewed their Defence Cooperation Agreement (DCA), which facilitates broader defence engagements, including joint military training, defence technology exchanges, and maritime security cooperation. This agreement lays the foundation for future arms deals and continued collaboration.
Looking Ahead: A Growing Defence Partnership
The defence cooperation between Indonesia and the Philippines continues to grow, as both nations face shared security challenges in the region. With Indonesia’s proven track record as a reliable supplier of military hardware and the deepening of joint security agreements, the partnership is set to strengthen further.
Potential new contracts between two countries may soon materialise, while ongoing maritime patrols and joint initiatives ensure that both countries remain committed to regional stability. As Southeast Asia continues to evolve, the strategic defence relationship between Indonesia and the Philippines will play a critical role in ensuring peace and security for both nations.
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