US, PHL Army engineers conduct ADR, EOD training during Balikatan

Philippine and US Army engineers recently conducted joint training exercises focused on airfield damage repair (ADR) and explosive ordnance disposal (EOD) as part of the ongoing "Balikatan" exercises.

The training, which commenced in Cebu on April 21 and will run until May 9, aimed to enhance the capabilities of both armed forces in crucial combat support operations.

Key aspects of the ADR training included lectures on familiarization, crater repair, formworks installation, and crushed stone restoration, followed by practical simulation and field exercises.

Airfield repairs and explosive ordnance disposal skills are vital for ensuring mission success by enabling the rapid restoration of damaged runways and the safe removal of explosive hazards, thereby maintaining operational continuity.

More than 14,000 Filipino and American troops are participating in the Balikatan exercise, held in areas of the Philippines facing regional flashpoints like the South China Sea and Taiwan.

The exercise also features advanced US missile systems.

Additionally, the Philippine Air Force held search and rescue drills off the coast of Zambales province to improve personnel recovery capabilities in wartime conditions.