The Philippines decided to cancel the purchase of the Russian -made helicopter and intentionally transferred to the United States to buy Chenk.Other Southeast Asian countries may also re -consider military reserve transactions with Russia to prevent US sanctions.
Philippine officials confirmed to the media last week that they are starting to "formally terminate" to buy 16 military-to-17 helicopters from Russia.The Philippine Ambassador to the United States Jose Manuel Romualdez further disclosed the online forum on Monday (August 15) that the Philippines intends to buy the chinook helicopter to the United States.
Reuters quoted Rocal says that the United States is willing to set up a budget transaction based on the Philippines to purchase a Russian helicopter, and will include maintenance services and parts.
Rocal also pointed out that the Ukrainian war is the main reason for the Philippines to cancel the procurement contract.
"We are expected to be sanctions from the United States and Western countries. Continuing this contract obviously does not meet our interests."
The total value of the helicopter contract signed by the Philippines and Russia last November was 12.7 billion peso (the same below, about 458 million yuan), and the first batch of helicopters was originally scheduled to be delivered in November next year.The Philippines is negotiating with Russia in order to withdraw $ 38 million in deposits.
Singapore's Yusov Usa East South Asian Researcher Ian Storey analyzed the United Zaobao that if the Philippines continues to purchase Russian helicopters, the United States may use sanctions to counterattack American enemies to sanction the Philippines."This includes reduction in military assistance to Manila, which is considerable."
According to a report released by the US Congress Research Office in July, the Philippines is the country that the United States has given the most military aid in East Asia -Pacific.Among them, the US International Development Agency provided US $ 154.9 million aid to the Philippines in 2021, including military assistance.
Starri said that US sanctions will cause the purchase of Southeast Asian countries that are currently considering the purchase of Russian military reserve, and Vietnam is most affected."More than 80 % of Vietnam's arms are purchased from Russia, and accessories and ammunition also rely on Russia."
He pointed out that Vietnam is considering buying new fighters from Russia and may become the goal of sanctions.
