Marhalim Abas, based in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia, covers Southeast Asian defense. He has worked as a journalist specializing in Southeast Asia defense and security since 1994, initially with the New Straits Times newspaper.
The Philippines is likely to arm Embraer A-29 Super Tucano light attack airplanes and Bell AH-1F Cobra attack helicopters with 70-mm (2.75-in.) rockets converted to precision weapons by the addition of BAE Systems WGU-59/B guidance units.
The U.S. Defense Security Cooperation Agency (DSCA) has notified Congress of a possible $400 million sale to Thailand of eight Boeing AH-6i light attack reconnaissance helicopters and associated equipment.
Singapore and the U.S. on Sept. 23 renewed a defense pact that allows U.S. forces use of the Southeast Asian country’s air and naval bases, extending it by 15 years.
