The Israeli government will share some of its sophisticated military technologies and systems with the Armed Forces of the Philippines, according to the Israeli Ambassador to Manila Ilan Fluss.
During a forum held on Thursday, the ambassador said that defense and security cooperation between the two nations remains strong. He also mentioned that there are certain systems and technologies that Israel can share to help the Philippine army with its modernization efforts.
Fluss stated that some leading defense companies in Israel could introduce their cutting-edge technologies and best practices to the Philippine military without providing additional details.
Meanwhile, the ambassador expressed his belief that sharing military technologies with the Philippines could help the country address a wide variety of issues, including terrorism.
“This is part of what I said we have exchanges on different levels in bringing in different technologies and systems which can be used by the Navy, the Army, the Air Force, and the [Philippine Coast Guard]. So, we’re in touch with different military branches here,” he told The Manila Times.
No Weapons Sales
Despite Israel’s willingness to share military tech with the Philippines, Fluss clarified that his country could not afford to sell armaments and other high-powered military equipment to the Philippines.
He explained that Israel is a small country that needs a large arsenal to maintain its defense capabilities, especially amid increasing tensions with Iran.
However, Israel vows to continue discussing and upholding a “broad-ranging” defense cooperation agreement with the southeast Asian nation. Both countries are now reportedly working on the draft of the agreement.
