US deploys advanced weapons in Balikatan drills

During the ongoing 'Balikatan' exercise, advanced US weapons platforms such as NMESIS, MRC Typhon, and MADIS are being deployed to enhance joint training and interoperability between Philippine and US forces.

Col. Doug Krugman of the US 1st Marine Expeditionary Force explained that NMESIS is included in the exercises because it mirrors capabilities recently acquired by the AFP, such as the BrahMos coastal defense cruise missile system.

Brig. Gen. Michael Logico, assistant exercise director for 'Balikatan', noted that these drills aim to expand the reach of Philippine forces beyond territorial waters and enhance combat readiness through joint training.

The NMESIS is a mobile anti-ship missile system with a range of 100 nautical miles, while BrahMos can carry warheads weighing up to 300 kg and has a top speed of Mach 2.8.

These exercises began on April 21 and will conclude on May 9 as part of the 40th iteration of annual military drills between the Philippines and the United States.