Filipino and American Soldiers Conduct Fire Support Exercise
Filipino and American soldiers recently joined forces in a vital fire support military exercise in the West Philippine Sea. This operation was part of the 7th Bilateral Maritime Cooperative Activity (MCA) between the Philippines and the United States. The Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) highlighted that these drills aim to deepen cooperation and improve interoperability, ensuring peace and stability in the region amid rising concerns about militarization.
AFP’s chief military information officer, Col. Xerxes Trinidad, shared that the centerpiece of this exercise was the fire support rehearsal involving the U.S. 3rd Marine Littoral Regiment (3MLR), stationed in Subic. “This serial tested joint coordination in a littoral combat environment, integrating forward observers, command and control elements, and fire support platforms for a smooth maritime operational effectiveness,” Trinidad explained.
Comprehensive Training Enhances Maritime Cooperation
Besides the fire support rehearsal, the two forces engaged in several other exercises. These included Communications Check Exercises (COMMEX), Division Tactics and Officer of the Watch Maneuvers (DIVTACS/OOW), Photo Exercises (PHOTOEX), and a Final Exercise (FINEX). Each activity was designed to boost interoperability, maritime domain awareness, and targeting reconnaissance abilities.
A noteworthy highlight during the war games was the debut operational deployment of the BRP Miguel Malvar (FFG-06). Commissioned just last month, this mission allowed the AFP to evaluate the ship’s performance within a multilateral setting and gauge its readiness to operate alongside allied forces. “The mission provided a valuable opportunity to evaluate the ship’s performance in a multilateral environment and assess its readiness to operate alongside its partner nation, reaffirming its vital role in enhancing the AFP’s maritime capabilities,” said Trinidad.
Focus on Humanitarian and Disaster Response Readiness
The MCA’s scope extended beyond defense training to include Humanitarian Assistance and Disaster Response (HADR) preparedness. The Philippine Air Force Search and Rescue (SAR) unit and the Philippine Coast Guard’s BRP Cabra (MRRV4409) actively participated in these efforts. “These efforts directly contribute to the AFP’s ability to carry out its mandated tasks more efficiently and with greater responsiveness,” Trinidad emphasized.
Through these exercises, Filipino and American soldiers continue to strengthen their partnership, enhancing their capability to address both security and humanitarian challenges in the West Philippine Sea. This cooperation is vital for maintaining peace and stability in the region.
For more news and updates on military exercises, visit Filipinokami.com.