The military forces of the Philippines and the United States wrapped up their first Maritime Cooperative Activity for the year in the West Philippine Sea, with no incidents reported.
The Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) and the United States Indo-Pacific Command (USINDOPACOM) completed this bilateral maritime event on January 17-18.
AFP said the MCA illustrates the joint dedication of both nations to boosting regional and international cooperation in the interest of a free and open Indo-Pacific.
It aims to showcase the AFP and INDOPACOM’s ongoing partnership in the maritime domain.
Philippine assets involved in the Maritime Cooperative Activity (MCA) comprised BRP Antonio Luna (FF151), BRP Andres Bonifacio (PS17), two FA50 fighter aircraft, and Search and Rescue (SAR) assets from the Philippine Air Force.
Participating assets from the U.S. included the USS Carl Vinson Carrier Strike Group (VIN CSG), USS Princeton (CG59), USS Sterett (DDG104), an MH-60 Seahawk helicopter, a V-22 Osprey helicopter, and two F-18 Hornet aircraft.
AFP Chief of Staff General Romeo Brawner Jr. said that the MCA is vital for augmenting defense collaboration, enhancing readiness, and efficiently tackling difficulties.
He stated that it signifies a collective dedication to safeguarding national interests and maintaining regional tranquility.
”This MCA is a crucial element of our continued efforts to strengthen defense cooperation. With each exercise, we become increasingly prepared and effective in addressing the challenges ahead. This is a result of our shared commitment and mutual effort to safeguard our national interests, and secure a peaceful region.” Brawner said.
Carrier Strike Group 1 commander Rear Admiral Michael Wosje stressed the value of professional cooperation with regional allies, such as the Philippines, to improve mutual understanding and partnerships.
He referred to the U.S.-Philippines alliance as “ironclad,” bringing out their mutual dedication as maritime powers to preserving an open and free Indo-Pacific and guaranteeing maritime access.
“Professional engagement with allies, partners, and friends in the region allows us to build upon our existing, strong relationships and continue to learn from each other,” said Wosje.
“As fellow maritime nations, we share the common goal of a free and open Indo-Pacific, assuring access to the seas,” he added.
The forces conducted on January 17 a Communications Check Exercise (COMMEX), Division Tactics/Officer of the Watch (DIVTACS/OOW) maneuver, and a Photo Exercise (PHOTOEX), which are exercises designed to enhance coordination, communication, and operational readiness among participating forces.
Participants continued the exercises on January 18 by completing Dissimilar Aircraft Combat Training (DACT), a drill that involves pilots from several aircraft types participating in simulated air combat scenarios.
The goal is to improve strategies and procedures for engaging with aircraft of different speeds, capacities, and maneuvering characteristics.
