Philippines strengthens military capacity hinh anh 1Defence Secretary Delfin Lorenzana (Photo: Xinhua/VNA)

Hanoi (VNA) - Philippine President Rodrigo Duterte has approved the plan of the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) to buy more aircraft and submarine, Defence Secretary Delfin Lorenzana said on June 11.

The officer said the Philippines will purchase fighter jets, long-range patrol aircraft, combat utility helicopters, sniper rifles, modern army equipment and a submarine.

The Philippines is also looking at possible sources of submarine like the Republic of Korea, Russia and other countries, Lorenzana told reporters.

Meanwhile, he said it might take some time before the Philippines can acquire a submarine.

Security officials said last week that the AFP's plan to buy 12 multi-role fighter jets and two frigates to beef up its air and sea arsenal.

On May 7, the Philippine Coast Guard unveiled plans to buy more weapons, including guns and water assets this year to beef up their fighting capability at sea.-VNA

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