Japan and the Philippines are expected to sign an agreement this week on the sidelines of APEC summit. The deal will give way for Japan to supply the Philippines with defense equipments and techs which is likely to be used in the disputed South China Sea. according to Reuters.
Speaking on the sidelines of the APEC summit, “We are always with the Philippines and will support them the best we can” Prime Minister Shinzo Abe said.
Growing tensions in the South China Sea have led both the Philippines and Japan to strengthen their defense ties under strategic partnership.
According to reports the deal will mark the first time Japan has agreed to directly donate military equipment to another country.
Sources were cited as saying that Japan may start supplying three Beechcraft TC-90 King Air Planes, followed by used Lockheed Martin submarine-hunting P3-C patrol planes.
The Beechcraft TC-90 King Air Planes are currently being used to train Japanese Self Defense Force pilots.
In 2013, Japan announced that they are transferring 10 patrol boats to the Philippines to begin in 2016.
