[Aaron-Matthew Lariosa, 10-01-2025] Manila Recovers Chinese Underwater Drone Operating in Philippine Waters
Rocio Gatdula, a Washington-based defense economist analyst, told USNI News that the recent drone recovery demonstrated China’s ability to “compromise the situational awareness of the AFP [Armed Forces of the Philippines] and potentially facilitate future incursions.”
“China’s objectives may include mapping the Philippines’ underwater topography to support submarine and naval operations, gathering intelligence for military, navigational and resource purposes, and reinforcing territorial claims through surveillance and presence to advance its “historical rights” narrative, particularly around Palawan and key sea lanes,” Gatdula said.
Gatdula also stated that allies such as the U.S. could aid the Philippines by providing advanced maritime sensors and enhanced training on the detection of underwater drones.
“Additionally, investing in technical support for forensic analysis of recovered drones would support Manila’s ability to counter incursions, improve early warning systems and reinforce deterrence against persistent Chinese maritime aggressions,” Gatdula said.
Related:
Rocio Gatdula, LinkedIn: Georgetown University Walsh School of Foreign Service (Jesuit), University of Asia and the Pacific (Opus Dei), PAREF Rosehill School (Opus Dei), CSIS (Center for Strategic and International Studies)
Rocio Gatdula, CSIS, 09-11-2025: Closing the Undersea Surveillance Gap in Southeast Asia
Julia Rocio Gatdula is a former research intern with the Southeast Asia Program at the Center for Strategic and International Studies in Washington, D.C.
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