AFP, French Navy conclude third week of WPS exercises

The Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) and the French Navy concluded another maritime exercise in the West Philippine Sea on Friday, marking the third consecutive week of joint activities within the Northern Luzon Command area.

Philippine assets involved included the missile frigate BRP Jose Rizal, offshore patrol vessel BRP Gregorio del Pilar, a C-90 patrol aircraft, two FA-50PH light jet fighters, and Philippine Air Force search-and-rescue units.

French naval units participating were led by the Charles de Gaulle aircraft carrier along with frigates Provence and Alsace, supply vessel Jacques Chevallier, air defense destroyer Forbin, and Aquitaine-class frigate Alsace, engaging in various drills to enhance interoperability, communication, and defense capabilities.

Activities included COMMEX, division tactics/officer of the watch maneuvers (DIVTACS/OOW), PHOTOEX, replenishment at sea, personnel exchange via rigid hull inflatable boats, anti-submarine warfare exercises, and dissimilar aircraft combat training.

The AFP emphasized that these joint efforts aim to build a stronger, more resilient defense system prepared for modern challenges, especially following recent incidents like the close approach of a Chinese military helicopter over Bajo de Masinloc.

In response to such incidents, additional aircraft from the Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources (BFAR) were deployed to the West Philippine Sea.