The U.S. Army has made a major move to address the rising threat of drones by deploying its advanced Leonidas high-power microwave system to the Philippines.Announced by defense officials in early April 2025, this deployment represents a key milestone in the U.S.-Philippines defense partnership and highlights the growing role of directed-energy weapons in countering unmanned aerial threats.Positioned as part of joint Indo-Pacific exercises, the Leonidas system is intended to bolster regional security amid escalating tensions in the South China Sea, where drones are increasingly used for surveillance and provocation.Beyond showcasing cutting-edge technology, the deployment signals a broader strategic initiative to reinforce deterrence in a region vital to global commerce and stability. Viewers may note that roughly one-third of global maritime trade—valued at over $3 trillion annually—passes through the South China Sea, making it a critical chokepoint for international shipping and energy transport.In this video, Defense Updates analyzes how the U.S. made Leonidas high-power microwave anti-drone system could help the Philippines ?#defenseupdates #philippinesvschina #usvschina Chapters:0:00 TITLE00:11 INTRODUCTION01:26 SPONSORSHIP – NordVPN02:00 TAKING ON DRONES03:40 LEONIDAS06:26 ANALYSIS