The Philippines has established a National Coast Watch System (NCWS) as part of its 18-year Capability Upgrade Program (CUP) aimed at defeating domestic rebels and bolstering territorial defences.
The upgrades are being made by the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) under the Internal Peace and Security Plan, also known as ‘Operation Community Spirit’, with the majority of funds allocated to maritime and air security.
The NCWS will consist of 20 offshore surveillance platforms fitted with automated systems including radars, UHF radios and high-powered optical recorders, as well as more reactive sea patrols.
Supporting the surveillance platforms will be a