PH, US marines hold live-fire drill in Tarlac

The Philippine Marine Corps (PMC) and the United States Marine Corps (USMC) conducted a joint live-fire exercise at Colonel Ernesto Rabina Air Base in Tarlac on Thursday as part of the Kamandag Exercise.

In a statement, the PMC said the 81mm mortar was used in the activity.

“PMC fired mortar rounds at designated targets, demonstrating accuracy. The USMC likewise showcased their own mortar operations, performing their methods for target acquisition and fire correction before successfully engaging their assigned targets,” the PMC said.

Filipino personnel who are skilled in mortar operations exchanged knowledge and ideas with their US counterparts, according to the PMC.

The exercise also exhibited coordinated fire adjustments facilitated by forward observers to enhance accuracy on the battlefield, the PMC added.

An observer from Thailand witnessed the live-fire exercise.

“The live-fire exercise highlights the enduring partnership between the PMC and USMC in their mutual commitment to enhancing and readiness through continued cooperation and joint training,” the PMC said.

This year's Kamandag Exercise officially commenced on May 26 and is scheduled to conclude on June 6.

PMC commandant Major General Arturo Rojas said a total of around 4,000 participants are expected to join the training.

The US missile system Navy-Marine Expeditionary Ship Interdiction System (NMESIS) will be used in the training.

Among the exercises that will be featured in this year's Kamandag are the following:

• Chemical, Biological, Radiological, Nuclear and Explosive (CBRN) Subject Matter Expert Exchange (SMEE)
• Senior Enlisted Leaders Symposium (SELS)
• Maritime & Special Operation Forces events
• Live Fire Integration
• Maritime Strike
• Counter-Landing/Defensive Retrograde Operation
• Special Operating Forces Strike
• Humanitarian Assistance and Disaster Relief.

–NB, GMA Integrated News