The annual Balikatan war games, conducted jointly between the Philippines and the United States, are set to witness a significant first in 2024. Colonel Michael Logico, executive agent of Balikatan 2024, confirmed the inclusion of the Spyder (Surface-to-air Python and Derby) air defense missile system in the upcoming exercises scheduled to take place in Central Luzon.
Col. Logico emphasized that the exercise will involve “integrated air missile defense exercises” utilizing the newly acquired Spyder batteries. This testing aims to evaluate the interoperability between the Spyder system and the weapon systems employed by the US forces during the drills.
The acquisition of the Spyder system falls under the Horizon 2 phase of the Philippine Armed Forces (AFP) modernization program, a strategic initiative aimed at bolstering the nation’s defense capabilities. The three-battery system, valued at approximately $133 million, was procured through a 2019 agreement with Israel’s Ministry of Defense and Rafael Advanced Defense Systems. The first two batteries arrived in September 2023, with the final battery expected later this year.
The Spyder system is designed to provide multi-layered air defense against a wide range of aerial threats, including combat aircraft, attack helicopters, unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs), ballistic and cruise missiles, guided munitions, and rockets. This versatile capability enhances the Philippines’ ability to protect critical infrastructure, land-based assets, mobile units, and personnel from aerial attacks.
The planned integration of the Spyder system during Balikatan 2024 marks a significant step towards the Philippines’ enhanced air defense capabilities. This development not only strengthens its national security posture but also furthers military cooperation with the United States in the region.
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