On 20 December 2023, the Embassy of Japan has officially turned over a Japanese-built air surveillance radar system to the Philippine Air Force (PAF) during the ceremony at Wallace Air Station, San Fernando City, La Union. Present during the event were Department of National Defense (DND) Secretary Gilberto Teodoro Jr., Commanding General of the Philippine Air Force LTGEN Stephen P. Parreño, Embassy of Japan in the Philippines Chargé d’affairs (CDA) ad interim MATSUDA Kenichi, and Assistant Commissioner of Acquisition, Technology and Logistics Agency (ATLA), Japan Ministry of Defense NISHIWAKI Osamu.
The delivery of the air surveillance radar system is based on the contract signed between the DND and Japanese manufacturer, Mitsubishi Electric Corporation in August 2020. The radar system aims to enhance the AFP’s air surveillance capabilities, as part of the AFP’s modernization program.
The first unit of the air surveillance radar system was delivered in October 2023. Three more units are expected to be delivered to the Philippines in the coming years. The transfer is an affirmation of Japan’s commitment to the Philippines as its strategic partner and to contributing peace and stability in the region.