Leilani Chavez
Leilani Chavez is an Asia correspondent for Defense News. Her reporting expertise is in East Asian politics, development projects, environmental issues and security.
All Stories By Leilani
In Japan, a more muted cheering for the British-led GCAP warplane
By contrast, there is “GCAP silence” in Japan, says one local observer of business ties between Japan and the West.
Philippines hints at fresh fighter fleet amid negotiations with Sweden
The two governments are now ironing out the final terms of defense cooperation based on a memorandum of understanding signed last year.
Japan sends companies to Singapore Airshow with eyes on foreign market
This is the largest industrial contingent outside Japan after the government relaxed post-war arms exports in 2014.
China unveils export version of attack helicopter
China this week unveiled the export version of the signature attack helicopter by the People’s Liberation Army at the Singapore Airshow here.
South Korea, US explore joint ship, weapons maintenance opportunities
South Korean defense companies have also been expanding their presence in the United States.
What’s next for the US-Philippines basing agreement?
The Philippines is expected to work on dozens of projects this year to upgrade military bases as part of an agreement with the United States.
South Korea to start mass production of KF-21 fighter jets
The first mass production of the KF-21 is expected to fill the “power vacuum” left when the South Korean Air Force’s aging fighter fleet retires.
Singapore’s Navy inks modernization deals amid personnel shortage
The country has embarked on numerous joint training exercises and sent troops to various countries to ease the problem, but end strength remains a problem.
South Korea to increase defense spending over five years
The budgetary adjustment calls for improved military capabilities, efforts to maintain troop levels and the modernization of defense facilities.
Japan delivers radar to Philippines amid tension in South China Sea
The new warning and control radar system, FPS-3ME, can detect multiple fighter jets and ballistic missiles.
