Lorenzana on Russia planning to put weapons hub in PHL: They’re ready but we may be not

Defense Secretary Delfin Lorenzana on Wednesday said the Philippines may not be ready with the plan of Russia to put up a weapons production hub in the Philippines.

“They are ready but we may [be] not,” Lorenzana told GMA News Online.

The Defense chief explained that Russia’s rifles were different from the Philippines’ standard rifles.

“For one they have different caliber meaning their rifles are different from our own standard rifles - the M16 and and M14 or their derivatives,” Lorenzana said.

“Their ammunition are not compatible with our current rifles. Unless we totally change of M16s and M14s with Kalashnikovs, which we are not ready do, then it is not feasible at the moment,” Lorenzana said. 

It was Igor Khovaev, Russian ambassador to the Philippines, who bared the plan of Russia as the country seeks “increased defense and security cooperation with America’s oldest Asian ally.”

Khovaev said the proposed agreement was subject to bilateral consultations and that “both sides are exploring opportunities.”

“We are ready to organize a joint production of sophisticated arms and small weapons here in the Philippines,” Khovaev had said.

Lorenzana said the proposal was discussed during President Rodrigo Duterte’s trip to Russia.

Lorenzana, however, said Russia is “welcome to produce other defense equipment such as body protective gears and others.” — RSJ, GMA News