ASEAN warships sail together off Penang waters

Warships from Southeast Asian countries sailed together off the waters of Penang, Malaysia as part of the ASEAN Multilateral Naval Exercise (AMNEX) 2025, the Philippine Navy said.

In a statement released Friday, the Philippine Navy said, “Warships from across Southeast Asia sailed in unison today as the ASEAN Fleet Review 2025 took place off the waters of Penang, marking one of the high points of the AMNEX 2025.”

“Led by the Royal Malaysian Navy as this year’s host, the Fleet Review gathered 10 naval vessels from ASEAN member states, including the Philippine Navy’s BRP Antonio Luna (FF-151),” it added.

The Philippine Navy said the activity held on Thursday was a powerful demonstration of ASEAN solidarity, interoperability, and commitment to maintaining peace and security in regional waters.

Senior ASEAN defense and navy officials witnessed the event.

Photo from Philippine Navy contingent Naval Task Group 80.5 and Royal Malaysian Navy 

“For the Philippine Navy, participation in the Fleet Review underscored its continuing modernization journey and its role as a reliable partner in multilateral maritime cooperation,” the Philippine Navy said.

“BRP Antonio Luna’s presence reflected the Navy’s growing capabilities in multi-role operations such as anti-surface, anti-submarine, and limited anti-air warfare,” it added.

After the activity, ASEAN navies will join a series of sea-phase activities designed to enhance their interoperability and operational readiness. These activities include the following:

• Maneuvering Exercise (MANEX)
• Replenishment at Sea Approach (RASAP)
• Publication Exercise (PUBEX)
• Flash Exercise (FLASHEX)
• Night Steaming in Company (NISC)
• Screening Exercise (SCREENEX)

AMNEX 2025 started last week which features a series of activities for joint drills designed to enhance cooperation, coordination, and readiness among ASEAN navies. —VAL, GMA Integrated News