The Philippines is considering aerial resupply missions to its remote outpost in Ayungin Shoal, as President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. has ordered adjustments to the conduct of the routine trips in response to persistent water cannon attacks by Chinese vessels.
The National Security Council (NSC) has indicated that changes in the rotation and resupply trips to the BRP Sierra Madre, the government’s military outpost in Ayungin, are being considered for national security reasons.
Assistant Director General Jonathan Malaya, the NSC spokesperson, mentioned that taking a route by air is among the options under consideration, emphasizing that an operational mix of options, including aerial resupply, is being explored.
The Philippines’ resupply boats bound for Ayungin have faced similar attacks from Chinese ships in the past, leading to the consideration of aerial resupply missions as an alternative approach.
Source: PhilNews24 | May 8, 2024
