Insider Spotlight
RIMPAC, hosted by the United States Third Fleet, is widely regarded as the world’s largest and most complex multinational maritime exercise. The Coast Guard’s inclusion as a participant rather than an observer reflects growing international recognition of its role in Indo-Pacific maritime security and operational interoperability.
Why it matters
This will be the first time a foreign coast guard has been invited to actively participate in the US-led exercise, and the first time Philippine-manufactured firearms will be fielded in a major international operational environment. Participation places personnel, procedures, and equipment under close scrutiny alongside some of the most capable maritime forces in the world.
For the exercise, the PCG will field RD4P Cobra 5.56-millimeter assault rifles produced by Armscor Global Defense Inc. under its Rock Island Armory Defense brand. The acquisition was shaped not simply around purchasing weapons, but around ensuring long-term reliability, availability, and sustainment throughout the rifles’ service life.
Designed for archipelagic operations
“The platform was originally developed for military and law-enforcement use through close consultation with end-users. This approach mirrors how many Western defense manufacturers operate today – starting with operational realities and engineering solutions around them,” explained AGDI assistant vice president for business development and RIA Defense brand manager Daniel Tuason.
For the PCG, those realities include constant exposure to humidity, saltwater, and maritime boarding operations. The RD4P Cobra was engineered to function reliably in and around water, with features that enhance drainage, corrosion resistance, and ergonomics for prolonged use at sea.
Sustainment over symbolism
From the outset, sustainment was treated as a core requirement.
“Service centers across the Philippines were capacitated to perform maintenance and repairs locally, supported by pre-positioned spare-parts inventories. This structure significantly reduces downtime and ensures that weapons remain available to operational units, rather than being sidelined by logistical delays,” Tuason said.
Extended warranty coverage and a planned midlife refurbishment cycle were also built into the program, shifting the focus from delivery alone to lifecycle performance and accountability.
The bottom line
By fielding locally manufactured rifles at RIMPAC, the PCG is not only validating its operational readiness on a global stage, but also demonstrating how disciplined procurement and domestic manufacturing can reinforce long-term capability, regional credibility, and industrial resilience. — Daxim L. Lucas | Ed: Corrie S. Narisma
