Philippines, Japan, US conclude naval drills in West Philippine Sea

MANILA, Philippines, September 15 ------ The combined armed and defense forces of the Philippines, Japan and the United States concluded the 11th Multilateral Maritime Cooperative Activity (MMCA) in the West Philippine Sea (WPS), demonstrating a collective commitment to strengthen regional and international cooperation for a free and open Indo-Pacific.

The Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) said yesterday that the joint activity was conducted in the waters off Magalawa Island, Palauig to Silanguin Island, San Antonio, Zambales from Sept. 11-13 despite the presence of China’s three People’s Liberation Army Navy vessels monitoring the exercises. The three nations underscored the sustained commitment of the three nations to enhancing maritime cooperation, promoting regional security, and supporting rules-based international order in the Indo-Pacific.

For the 11th MMCA, the AFP deployed BRP Jose Rizal (FF150), an AW109 anti-submarine helicopter, a Philippine Air Force search and rescue aircraft, a C-208B Intelligence, Surveillance and Reconnaissance aircraft, and four FA-50 fighter jets. The United States contributed the USS John Finn (DDG113), a P-8A Poseidon maritime patrol aircraft and two MH 60-R helicopters. Japan deployed JS Osumi (LST4001), demonstrating its amphibious capabilities and operational readiness in combined maritime operations.

Key components of the 11th MMCA included a Communications Check Exercise to ensure effective coordination; Maritime Domain Awareness activities; an Anti-Submarine Warfare Exercise; a Cross-Deck Landing Exercise; and Naval Surface Interdiction and Clearance. The exercise also featured Division Tactics/Officer of the Watch maneuvers, a Photo Exercise, Passing Exercise, Search and Rescue Exercise, and a Final Exercise. “The successful conduct of the MMCA not only enhances the interoperability of the participating forces but also reaffirms the Philippines’ steadfast commitment to safeguarding its maritime interests and upholding peace and security in the region,” the AFP said.

Source: philstar.com