China Studies Arms Failures in 2 Wars as It Courts Philippines With P1 Billion Aid
Updated
Updated · asianews.network · Aug 15
China Studies Arms Failures in 2 Wars as It Courts Philippines With P1 Billion Aid
1 articles · Updated · asianews.network · Aug 15
Summary
Chinese radar and air-defense systems that Beijing sold to Venezuela and Iran failed to stop US or US-Israeli strikes, feeding analysis that China is now using those setbacks to shape its Philippines strategy.
In Venezuela, the JY-27A radar reportedly missed US aircraft during January's Operation Absolute Resolve, which ended with Nicolás Maduro's capture; similar Chinese-linked surveillance and command systems in Iran failed before Ayatollah Ali Khamenei was killed on Feb. 28.
Chester Cabalza said Beijing's muted response suggests it is avoiding direct confrontation while extracting tactical and economic lessons, then leveraging manufacturing and defense supply chains to expand influence.
In the Philippines, that approach has paired security outreach with pressure against deeper US ties: China donated thousands of rifles in 2017 and P1 billion in disaster equipment, while condemning a US-backed ammunition plant and Typhon missile deployment.
The broader calculation, analysts say, is to present China as a steadier partner for developing states, exploit any doubts about long-term US commitment, and weaken Washington's hold on regional allies.