The Philippine Navy, alongside American forces, will conduct missile launches and deploy various assets during this year’s Balikatan exercises.
In a report by RH Edniel Parrosa, Navy Flag Officer-in-Command Vice Admiral Jose Ma. Ambrosio Ezpeleta announced during his first briefing with the Defense Press Corps that the Philippine Navy would participate in the maritime cooperative activities of this year’s annual joint military drills.
This year's Balikatan exercises will showcase the testing of the C-Star surface-to-surface missile, capable of striking enemy ships; the Spike NLOS (Non-Line of Sight) missile, designed to target objects beyond the horizon; and the Mistral surface-to-air missile.
As per Ezpeleta, this initiative is a continued expression of the military's commitment to ensuring the security of the West Philippine Sea.
“Our involvement in the combined exercise is instrumental in strengthening interoperability, enhancing our collective response to regional security challenges, and ensuring that we remain ready to confront emerging threats,” Ezpeleta stated.
In a separate confirmation by Navy Spokesman Capt. John Percie Alcos, it was revealed that this will be the first time the Navy utilizes various naval assets to test its major missile systems.
Defense Secretary Gilbert Teodoro had earlier revealed that a "full battle simulation" would be carried out by the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) and the U.S. for this year's Balikatan exercises.
Moreover, Balikatan Exercise Director BGen. Mike Logico confirmed that, for the second consecutive year, the sinking exercise—featuring the deliberate sinking of a naval vessel—would be included in the activities.
