Japan and Philippines fast-track transfer of destroyers and aircraft
Updated
Updated · CNA · May 5
Japan and Philippines fast-track transfer of destroyers and aircraft
16 articles · Updated · CNA · May 5
In Manila, Defence Minister Shinjiro Koizumi said a new working group would pursue an early free transfer, while Gilberto Teodoro said the destroyers would be donated.
The plan covers retiring Abukuma-class destroyers and TC-90 aircraft, after Tokyo eased arms export rules and as 1,400 Japanese personnel join US-Philippine drills for the first time.
The move deepens security ties driven by disputes with China in the South China Sea, following recent troop access and resupply agreements and ahead of a live-fire sinking exercise in Ilocos Norte.
Can Japan's military exports deter China or will they ignite a regional arms race?
Will aging Japanese warships give the Philippines a real edge in the contested South China Sea?
As alliances harden against China, what becomes of neutrality for other Southeast Asian nations?
Koizumi’s 2026 Manila Visit Sparks Deepened Japan-Philippines Military Cooperation and Regional Security Realignment
Overview
In May 2026, Japanese Defense Minister Shinjiro Koizumi's visit to Manila accelerated Japan-Philippines defense cooperation, highlighted by establishing a working group to fast-track transfers of Abukuma-class destroyers and surveillance aircraft. This was enabled by Japan's historic April policy shift allowing lethal weapons exports, driven by concerns over China's assertiveness. The cooperation included a multilateral live-fire exercise demonstrating deterrence and interoperability with the US and Canada. China strongly condemned these moves, increasing military deployments near disputed areas. The working group aims to ensure smooth equipment transfers, training, and interoperability, strengthening the Philippines' naval capabilities and regional security within a broader US-aligned framework, despite challenges ahead.