Japan and the Philippines have announced the establishment of a strategic partnership that will see Tokyo provide coast guard vessels to Manila and could lead to Japanese troops training in the country.
The agreement was made during a meeting between Japanese Prime Minister Shinzo Abe and Philippine President Benigno Aquino in Manila on 27 July.
As part of the agreement Japan will provide the Philippines with 10 coast guard patrol craft w1der its overseas development assistance CODA) programme.
Japan Self-Defence Forces air and sea units will also be invited to participate in joint exercises, as well as in drills with US and Philippine armed forces. A draft
visiting forces agreement will also allow for Japanese forces to train in the Philippines.
Both leaders expressed concern over increased activity by Chinese naval forces within areas they consider to be their countries' exclusive economic zones. "We will strengthen our relationship as partners who share many strategic interests,'' Abe told reporters in Manila.
Comment :
The agreement to provide 10 coast guard vessels is notable for a number of reasons. IHS Jane's reported in 2012 that the two sides were also discussing
the acquisition by Manila of two Japanese vessels in the 100m class with a displacement of around 1,500 tonnes, although it seems these plans have been
shelved.
At the time the 10 vessels under discussion were reported to be about 40 m long with a displacement of 180 tonnes. If this Is still the case and Japan opts to provide vessels based on existing designs, a close fit would be the Mihashi/Raizan class, which are 43 m long, displace 198 tonnes (standard) and are armed with a JM-61 Vulcan Gatling -style 20mm gun.
Based on inventory data sourced from IHS Jane's Fighting Ships, these would provide the Philippines with a major boost in its patrol capabilities, although it would still be outmatched in any potential face-off with Chinese paramilitary forces in the South China sea.
Source : JDW