Department of Defense (DND) Secretary Gilberto Teodoro Jr. on Tuesday disclosed that the Philippines needs to acquire Airborne Warning and Control System (AWACS) aircraft in addition to multi-role fighter (MRF) jets to truly strengthen its air capabilities.

In a statement, Teodoro stressed the necessity of a “full force package” for the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP), adding that MRFs alone are insufficient for deterrence without accompanying radar surveillance, aerial refueling and munitions support.

“We are still evaluating proposals. It is not only the purchase of the MRF per se which we need to deal with, but also to make the MRFs operational as a force package,” Teodoro said.

He also cited lessons from other countries that have found satellite technology alone to be inadequate.

“It’s easy to buy, but to maintain and to use the equipment with adequate stores, reserves, and munitions, which will add considerably to the cost of the package, must be all taken into account,” Teodoro said.

He underscored the importance of acquiring air defense systems that can be optimally used in military operations to make a difference and add to deterrence.

AWACS aircraft function as airborne radar stations and command centers, providing long-range surveillance, battle management, and control over air and maritime operations.

Equipped with powerful radar in a rotating dome, they can detect and track targets across vast distances, including at low altitudes and in all weather conditions.

Teodoro cited that aerial tankers and munitions reserves must be included in any acquisition, with their costs factored into long-term defense budgets.

“If equipment per se needs support equipment, we will also have to put aside funds for that,” said the Defense chief.

He also revealed that syndicated loans are being considered to finance the MRF and support system purchases, with repayments spread over several years.

Teodoro stressed the need for consensus from the Department of Finance (DoF) and the legislature to guarantee annual spending for the sustainment of these platforms.

“These are very real considerations. I know the expectations of our people, but it is my responsibility to make sure that each peso spent can be supported and justified,” Teodoro said. Talks are ongoing between the Department of National Defense, DoF, and the Department of Budget and Management to secure long-term funding.

In 2023, Philippine officials visited Sweden’s Saab facilities to inspect potential AWACS options, including the Saab 340 platform, though no deal has been finalized. Teodoro reiterated that any major procurement must prioritize sustainability, stating the government aims to avoid acquiring aircraft that would only be capable of flying in air shows.

“What we do not want is to buy, have orders, have deliveries, and not being able to use them for their optimal use and just have them flying airshows. That we will not countenance,” said the Defense chief.