US deploys NMESIS missile system during Balikatan 2025

The US Marine Corps successfully deployed on Saturday its land-based missile system Navy-Marine Expeditionary Ship Interdiction System (NMESIS) during the Balikatan 2025 in Luzon.

The NMESIS took part in the Maritime Key Terrain Security Operations (MKTSO) - North events of the joint military exercise of the Philippines and the US.

The missile system is "designed to target and deter hostile naval forces, enhances maritime domain awareness and strengthens the defensive posture of the Philippines and the United States in securing key maritime areas," according to the Balikatan 2025 Combined Joint Information Bureau.

"The NMESIS provides the combined and joint force a flexible and expedient sea denial capacity, contributing to the collective defense of both countries," it added.

US Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth earlier said the United States will deploy additional advanced capabilities to the Philippines, including the NMESIS, and highly capable unmanned surface vehicles during the Balikatan.

“These systems will enable US Forces and the Armed Forces of the Philippines to train together on using advanced capabilities to defend the Philippines' sovereignty,” he added.

The Balikatan 2025 started last Monday, April 21, and will last until May 9.

The joint exercises, with about 17,000 troops participating, will simulate a "full-scale battle scenario" as the Philippines and the US seek to deter Beijing's ambitions in the disputed South China Sea. —KG, GMA Integrated News