Manila: Department of National Defense (DND) Secretary Gilberto Teodoro Jr. has met with former Central Intelligence Agency (CIA) chief David Petraeus to discuss potential collaboration and the evolving nature of modern warfare.

According to Philippines News Agency, the meeting focused on possible partnerships in defense technology and industry, aiming to strengthen the country’s defense capabilities and modernize the Armed Forces of the Philippines.

Petraeus, who is now chair of the investment firm Kohlberg Kravis Roberts and Co. (KKR), has about USD2 billion invested in the Philippines. He expressed KKR’s interest in aligning with the Philippines’ defense goals through the firm’s global expertise in technology, infrastructure, and industrial development.

In their discussions on modern warfare, Teodoro and Petraeus emphasized the importance of innovation in shaping battlefield outcomes, citing Ukraine as a model for how current challenges drive technological advancements. Teodoro highlighted the need for low-cost, algorithmically designed technologies to enhance operational survivability and stressed the importance of mobile production systems to ensure readiness and resilience in defense operations.

Petraeus underscored the significance of adaptive military strategies and technological innovation for strengthening defense capabilities amid complex security environments. Reflecting on his extensive military career, which included leadership roles in the US Central Command and US Forces-Afghanistan, Petraeus noted that flexibility and innovation are key to overcoming larger adversaries.