AFP, French Navy hold joint drills in West Philippine Sea

The Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) and the French Navy conducted a joint Maritime Cooperative Activity (MCA) in the West Philippine Sea on Friday, February 21.

This exercise, aimed at strengthening defense cooperation amid rising geopolitical tensions in the Indo-Pacific, marks the third consecutive week of joint maritime activities in the WPS.

The drills featured various exercises, including communication checks, division tactics, photo exercises, replenishment at sea, personnel exchange, anti-submarine warfare, and dissimilar aircraft combat training.

The Philippine contingent included the BRP Jose Rizal (FF150), BRP Gregorio del Pilar (PS15), a C90 aircraft, two FA50 Golden Eagle multi-role fighters, and Philippine Air Force Search and Rescue units.

The French Navy's participation was centered around the aircraft carrier Charles De Gaulle, supported by the multi-mission frigate Provence, supply vessel Jacques Chevallier, air defense destroyer Forbin, and Aquitaine-class frigate Alsace.

According to AFP Chief of Staff General Romeo S Brawner Jr., these collaborative efforts aim to build a stronger, more resilient defense system for the Philippines.