4,000 Filipino and US troops start Kamandag military exercise

Starting Monday, 4,000 Filipino and American troops began the Kamandag military exercise in Fort Bonifacio.

The two-week drill focuses on joint capabilities between Philippine Marine Corps (PMC) and USMC, with additional participation from Japan Ground Self-Defense Force, Republic of Korea Marine Corps, and United Kingdom Armed Forces.

Activities such as command training and exercises like Chemical, Biological, Radiological, Nuclear and Explosive (CBRN) Subject Matter Expert Exchange (SMEE), Maritime & Special Operation Forces events, and Live Fire Integration are underway.

The US' missile system Navy-Marine Expeditionary Ship Interdiction System (NMESIS) will be used in training to enhance operational reach and validate Force Design 2030 for the USMC.

Since its start in 2016, Kamandag aims to enhance cooperation and security partnership between participating countries.