AFP, US conduct maritime strike drills off Laoag

The Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) and the United States Armed Forces conducted maritime strike exercises off Laoag City, Ilocos Norte on Wednesday as part of this year's Balikatan Exercises.

During the drill, a decommissioned China-made tanker donated to the Philippine Navy in 2014 was sunk with an anti-ship cruise missile by BRP Jose Rizal (FF150), demonstrating coordinated and multi-dimensional naval warfare capabilities.

The exercise involved various naval and aerial assets from both countries, including two Philippine Air Force jets and fast attack interdiction crafts armed with Spike missiles.

Despite minor delays due to a Filipino fisherman near the operational area, the drill was deemed a success without affecting overall mission objectives.

Military officials noted that such drills highlight the commitment of both nations to advancing joint operational capabilities and fostering regional security cooperation.

The AFP emphasized that these exercises are 'a testament to the military's commitment to its vision of becoming a world-class armed forces, a source of national pride.'