PH, US, Australia hold WPS joint drills

Troops from the Philippines, United States, and Australia joined the 9th Multilateral Maritime Cooperative Activity (MMCA) in the West Philippine Sea (WPS) on Tuesday, the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) said Wednesday.

In a statement, the AFP said the MMCA showcased a series of integrated operations to improve tactical coordination and combined operational capabilities among the three countries.

These included a Communications Check Exercise (COMMEX), rotary flight operations/vertical replenishment, Division Tactics (DIVTACS), and a Photo Exercise (PHOTOEX).

Aside from these, the AFP said air patrols and anti-submarine warfare (ASW) drills were also done.

“The exercise brought together key maritime and air assets from the three partner nations, showcasing a strong commitment to regional security, interoperability, and cooperation in support of a rules-based international order,” the AFP said.

Photo courtesy: A1C Castro/PAOAFP and 5th Fighter Wing

The Philippines deployed BRP Antonio Luna (FF151), AW159 anti-submarine helicopter, three FA-50PH fighter jets, and Philippine Air Force Search and Rescue (SAR) assets for the 9th MMCA.

Australia joined activity with the HMAS Sydney, while the US used its F-16 and F-18 fighter aircraft as well as long-range bomber aircraft.

“The 9th MMCA demonstrates the growing synergy among like-minded partners in maintaining peace and stability in the Indo-Pacific. These exercises are vital in strengthening our collective defense posture and operational readiness,” AFP chief General Romeo Brawner Jr. said.

According to the AFP, the MMCA reaffirms the military’s commitment to fostering international cooperation, maintaining maritime security, and safeguarding Philippine sovereignty in accordance with the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS). —VAL, GMA Integrated News