The Philippine Army plans to reorganize its artillery regiment to incorporate air defense capabilities, according to Chief Lt. Gen. Antonio Nafarrete.
The Army Artillery Regiment is expected to be elevated to an artillery command, integrating air defense systems alongside its existing howitzers and mortars, including ATMOS 155mm self-propelled guns, 155mm towed artillery, and 81mm and 60mm mortars.
While Nafarrete did not disclose the specific air defense system options the service is currently evaluating due to security reasons, he said that the army is considering a mix of gun- and missile-based systems to counter aircraft and drone threats at medium range.
The army chief also noted that the Armed Forces of the Philippines’ Strategic Command — officially activated in October 2025 to oversee and synchronize intelligence, operations, and joint engagements with allies — is responsible for operating long-range weapon systems.
Moreover, he said that the service is working on “organizational reforms to meet the demands of modern warfare,” the Philippine News Agency reported.
Boosting Air Defense
The air defense capability is intended to support the country’s Comprehensive Archipelagic Defense Concept.
Launched in 2024, the concept aims to secure the Philippines’ more than 7,000 islands and its 200-nautical-mile (370 kilometers/230 miles) exclusive economic zone in the South China Sea, a region marked by tensions with China.
In addition to air defense capabilities, the army is also looking into developing its drone capabilities for reconnaissance and combat, army spokesperson Col. Louie Dema-ala said earlier this month.
