PH Navy holds live firing missile exercise west of Zambales

The Philippine Navy conducted a live-fire unilateral missile exercise west of San Antonio, Zambales using the Spike Non-Line of Sight (NLOS) missile system on Tuesday. 

In a statement released Wednesday, the Philippine Navy said AW159 anti-submarine warfare helicopter and BRP Tomas Campo (PG908) were deployed for the exercise. 

“The AW159 helicopter successfully conducted the first-ever aerial launch of a Spike NLOS and destroyed its designated target,” the Philippine Navy said. 

“PG908 then carried out another coordinated Spike NLOS missile launch against a separate target,” it added. 

Spike NLOS is a precision-guided, multi-purpose missile system developed by Rafael Advanced Defense Systems (RADS) of Israel, according to the Philippine Navy. 

Using advanced electro-optical and real-time video guidance, the missile system is designed to engage targets beyond visual range with pinpoint accuracy. It also allows operators with full control from launch to impact. 

“Its integration into the PN’s arsenal significantly enhances standoff strike capabilities, boosting maritime defense, strategic deterrence, and operational effectiveness,” the Philippine Navy said. 

The following assets provided support to the live-fire exercise: 

• BRP Miguel Malvar (FFG06)
• ScanEagle UAV
• Fast Attack Interdiction Craft missile-capable BRP Albert Majini (PG909)
• BRP Laurence Narag (PG907)
• Multi-Purpose Attack Crafts BA492 and BA488

Units from the Philippine Marine Corps’ Coast Defense Regiment and the Philippine Coast Guard’s BRP Suluan (MRRV4406) also provided support to the activity. 

“The successful live-fire unilateral missile exercise forms part of the AFP's broader Comprehensive Archipelagic Defense Concept (CADC),” the Philippine Navy said.

“By aligning its modernization efforts with the CADC, the PN continues its transformation into a credible and adaptive maritime defense force, capable of safeguarding national sovereignty, maintaining territorial integrity, and securing the archipelago’s vital sea lanes against both traditional and asymmetric threats,” it added.—AOL, GMA Integrated News