PCG to get underwater drones, antidrone systems from Aussie gov’t
Australia will provide the Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) underwater drones and counter-drone systems under a new P413-million, four-year assistance package aimed at boosting the agency’s maritime surveillance and domain awareness capabilities, the Australian Embassy in
Manila said on Tuesday.
Australian Foreign Minister Penny Wong announced the package during a visit to Manila. The assistance also includes long-range and heavy-lift drones and specialist operator training for PCG personnel, according to the embassy.
With the new package, Australia’s total drone support for the PCG has reached P578 million since April 2025. Earlier assistance included 35 drones and operator training.
“This P413-million drones package benefits not just the Philippines’ maritime security agencies, but the millions of everyday Filipinos who rely on an open and accessible maritime domain for their livelihoods and commerce.” Australian Ambassador Marc Innes-Brown said in a statement.
He added that the drones previously provided by Australia had already been used by the PCG in maritime security, search and rescue, and environmental protection operations.
Civil maritime aid
Australia also announced a separate P678-million civil maritime assistance program to be implemented over four years.
The program will fund operational equipment and training, marine protection initiatives, maritime governance reforms, climate-related programs, postgraduate scholarships, and Law of the Sea courses.
“The doubling of our bilateral civil maritime assistance to P678 million is a tangible contribution to Australia and the Philippines’ shared interest in a peaceful, stable and prosperous region,” Innes-Brown said.
The announcement came as the two countries marked 80 years of diplomatic relations and continued to expand cooperation under the two countries’ Strategic Partnership.
Australia has been deepening maritime and security cooperation with the Philippines through capacity-building programs for local maritime agencies and participation in joint maritime activities.
