With a commitment to advancing the local defence industry, Armscor Global Defense, Inc. is poised to enhance national security whilst expanding its global footprint. COO, Felino Neri, highlights the company’s esteemed legacy as a leading firearms manufacturer.
TARGETING FIREARM EXCELLENCE
With a long and illustrious history, Armscor Global Defence, Inc. (AGDI), known as the Arms Corporation of the Philippines until 2017, stands as a prominent producer of firearms.
Dating back to 1905, the company is rooted in a print shop in Manila, the capital of the Philippines, Founded as Squires, Bingham & Co., it evolved into a retailer of general merchandise, including sporting goods and firearms.
In 1930, it was renamed Sportsmen’s Headquarters, and in 1940, entrepreneur Don Celso Tuason acquired the company. By 1952, he founded Squires Bingham Manufacturing Inc. and obtained the first firearms licence in the Philippines.
His sons later joined the business, and the brand was officially established in 1980 when the company was reorganised as the Arms Corporation of the Philippines.
“AGDI is recognised as the number one manufacturer of 1911 pistols globally, and we offer a wide range of over 100 variants, including calibres from .22 Long Rifle to 10 millimetres (mm),” introduces Felino Neri, COO, emphatically.
“AGDI is recognised as the number one manufacturer of 1911 pistols globally, and we offer a wide range of over 100 variants, including calibres from .22 Long Rifle to 10 millimetres (mm),” introduces Felino Neri, COO, emphatically.
AGDI also produces ammunition for both the commercial market and the defence industry, solidifying its reputation as a key player in the global firearms market.
“Today, we employ around 1,600 personnel, and as a firearms and ammunition manufacturing company with our main factory located in Marikina, we distribute our products worldwide. We also have store distribution nationwide alongside subsidiaries in the US, Turkey, and Australia,” he continues.
STRENGTHENING INDUSTRY INITIATIVES
AGDI’s customer demographic has evolved considerably in recent years, underscored by a substantial 70 percent export ratio to the US, which illustrates shifting market demands and preferences.
This evolution mirrors the unwavering commitment of the military and law enforcement in the Philippines to self-reliance and resilience, particularly in responding to evolving security threats.
As market dynamics change, these sectors work towards adapting and enhancing their capabilities to meet both domestic and international needs effectively.
“With the revitalisation and strengthening of the Self-Reliant Defense Posture (SRDP) programme, signed on 8th October 2024, this encourages local manufacturers to support the Armed Forces of the Philippines with locally-made weaponry,” Neri divulges.
“Over the years, AGDI has supplied the armed forces and law enforcement agencies (LEAs) with firearms and ammunition. Through this SRDP programme, we can offer additional support and develop weapon solutions for the country.”
The SRDP programme is an initiative launched by the Government of the Philippines aimed at strengthening the country’s defence capabilities through the promotion of local defence manufacturing.
This initiative is designed to reinforce the local defence industry by fostering partnerships between the government and local manufacturers, enabling improved supply chain management, technological transfer, and innovation within the sector.
By prioritising locally-made weaponry, the SRDP programme seeks to enhance national security, reduce dependency on foreign military supplies, and stimulate local economic growth through job creation and industrial development.
Indeed, AGDI actively collaborates with the Government of the Philippines to implement these initiatives, ensuring a comprehensive approach to national defence that incorporates local resources and expertise.
TACTICAL ADVANCEMENTS
The differences between commercial grade and military grade ammunition are significant, particularly in terms of performance and specifications.
As AGDI seeks to enhance its overall portfolio expansion strategy with the development of several new products, the company ensures its offerings meet the high standards of performance that differentiate commercial products from military-grade options.
“Commercial-grade differs from military-grade mainly in manufacturing standards and intended use. An example of this is the pressure requirements needed by military specifications (MIL-SPEC), as well as waterproofing of cartridges to prevent moisture and contaminants,” details Neri.
“We continuously monitor trends in both the commercial and military industries, developing complementary products as part of our strategy.”
The company’s primary objective is to elevate the distinct features of its? proposed sniper and machine gun products to meet rigorous military demands.
“By focusing on precision, durability, and advanced technology, we aim to provide cutting-edge solutions that enhance performance and reliability. Our military firearms must conform to MIL-SPEC, and the first focus is to cater to the LEAs and MIL of the Philippines. We build these firearms based on the soldiers’ build, environments, and use,” he shares.
Besides its commitment to quality, AGDI is dedicated to offering numerous opportunities for potential investors and delivering a strong value proposition that highlights its innovative strengths and market potential.
Moreover, by actively engaging and fostering relationships, the company aims to attract strategic partners and investors who share its vision for growth and success.
“Technology partners are potential investors not only for the company but also for the country. The defence industry is still young, and many opportunities are present. We serve as the foundation of the development of defence manufacturing and thus may guide other investors in establishing investments in the Philippines,” Neri prides.
“We continuously monitor trends in both the commercial and military industries, developing complementary products as part of our strategy”
Felino Neri, COO, Armscor Global Defense, Inc.
ELEVATING SKILLS
Recently, AGDI has made remarkable progress in strengthening the capabilities of security forces in the region.
These advancements not only bolster operational efficiency but also enhance the overall strategic effectiveness, empowering them to address emerging threats more adeptly than ever before.
“We have delivered 19,627 units of our STK100 RD1 striker-fired pistol to the Philippine Coast Guard (PCG). The purpose was to modernise PCG and equip personnel with reliable firearms. Likewise, we will provide another 10,000 units of the same pistol to the Department of Justice,” Neri outlines.
Given these high production volumes, AGDI places great emphasis on maintaining strict quality control throughout its global supply chain.
It therefore implements a comprehensive approach that includes regular audits, stringent quality standards, and continuous communication with partners.
Additionally, the company’s procurement team plays a crucial role in managing local supply chains in the Philippines by fostering strong relationships with suppliers, negotiating favourable terms, and ensuring quality expectations are consistently met.
“We have multiple checkpoints to ensure the quality of our products, such as the first article – the initial sample produced during a new or modified run. We have alignment of the testing process method, such as the common quality procedure and Production Part Approval Process (PPAP).”
Ensuring high product quality involves clarifying the methods used to check the equipment, which helps avoid confusion.
“Looking ahead, AGDI’s key priorities for the coming year include plans to embark on an ambitious project to establish a cutting-edge primer manufacturing facility, support the SRDP programme, and build a partnership to enhance the defence industry,” Neri concludes.
By focusing on these initiatives, the company aims to improve product quality further and contribute positively to the sector.
Combining a rich heritage with a progressive approach to local defence and global markets, AGDI continues to innovate and adapt to the changing demands of both commercial and military sectors, enhancing national security and supporting the interests of the local defence industry whilst also expanding its presence internationally.
