PH, Indian naval, air units hold 2nd joint maritime drill in WPS

MANILA, November 29 ------ Naval and air units from the Philippines and India conducted their second bilateral maritime cooperative activity (MCA) in the West Philippine Sea (WPS) highlighting the growing security partnership between the two nations.

In a statement Thursday night, the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) said the MCA was conducted in one of the most strategically important maritime zones in the region. "The activity aimed to deepen defense cooperation, enhance interoperability, and promote adherence to international law and a rules-based order in the Indo-Pacific," it added.

For the activity, the AFP said it deployed a formidable lineup of naval and air assets, including the guided missile frigate BRP Jose Rizal (FF-150), the Philippine Air Force's FA-50PH light combat aircraft, and a W-3A "Sokol" search and rescue helicopter. The Indian Navy, meanwhile, showcased its capabilities through the participation of the INS Sahyadri (F-49), a modern guided missile frigate equipped with an onboard helicopter, the AFP said. Throughout the engagement, participating units executed a series of coordinated maritime exercises designed to refine tactical skills and strengthen joint response capabilities.

The activities covered communication exercises and flag hoist drills, which honed visual and radio communication procedures between the two navies. The units also conducted officer of the watch (OOW) maneuvers accompanied by a photo exercise with a fly-by or low pass of FA-50PHs demonstrating precise and cooperative maritime formation. The activity was culminated by a steampast or passing exercise, symbolizing unity and shared commitment between Manila and New Delhi in safeguarding maritime domains. "The successful conduct of the 2nd MCA reflects the growing synergy between the AFP and the Indian Navy as both countries continue to expand defense cooperation. It also underscores their mutual commitment to maintaining peace, stability, and freedom of navigation in the region," the AFP said.

The 1st bilateral MCA between the Philippines and India took place from Aug. 3 to 4 in the waters of Masinloc, Zambales to Cabra Island, Lubang, Occidental Mindoro. Both the Philippines and India affirmed that such cooperative activities will remain a vital platform for strengthening regional defense posture and enhancing the capacity to respond to future contingencies at sea even with evolving maritime security challenges.

Source: pna.gov.ph