Philippines and France Conduct Joint Maritime Exercises in the West Philippine Sea
The Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) announced the successful execution of a Maritime Cooperative Activity (MCA) with French forces in the West Philippine Sea on February 21. This joint operation represents the third consecutive week of maritime cooperation within the northern part of the West Philippine Sea.
Background of the Exercises
According to the AFP statement, the joint exercises aim to enhance interoperability, communication, and defense capabilities between the Philippine and French armed forces. It aligns with the AFP’s objective to build a robust defense system capable of addressing contemporary security challenges.
Forces and Assets Involved
The Philippine maritime contingent included the guided missile frigate BRP Jose Rizal, offshore patrol vessel BRP Gregorio del Pilar, C90 aircraft, FA50 Golden Eagle multirole fighters, and Philippine Air Force Search and Rescue units.
On behalf of France, a comprehensive naval task force consisting of the aircraft carrier Charles De Gaulle, destroyer Provence, supply vessel Jacques Chevallier, air defense destroyer Forbin, and Aquitaine-class frigate Alsace participated. The Charles De Gaulle is armed with Rafale strike fighters and E-2C Hawkeye airborne early warning aircraft.
Exercise Activities
The exercises covered a range of drills designed to improve tactical coordination between the two nations. Activities included Communications Check Exercises (COMMEX), Division Tactics/Officer of the Watch (DIVTACS/OOW) maneuvers, photo reconnaissance operations (PHOTOEX), in-sea fueling exercises, personnel exchanges using rigid hull inflatable boats, anti-submarine warfare training, and dissimilar aircraft combat training sessions.
Regional Tensions
The joint exercises come against a backdrop of increasing maritime tensions in the West Philippine Sea. Recently, a Chinese military helicopter ventured too close to a Filipino military aircraft near Bajo de Masinloc, described as its most dangerous move yet by the Philippine Coast Guard (PCG).
In response to this provocative action, additional aircraft from the Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources (BFAR) were dispatched to patrol the area, reinforcing the Philippines’ commitment to safeguarding its maritime interests in the contested waters.
Significance of the Exercises
The collaborative efforts between the Philippines and France serve multiple purposes. Primarily, it showcases a renewed commitment to military preparedness and defense cooperation. Secondly, it demonstrates the Philippine government’s efforts in bolstering its maritime defenses amid ongoing territorial disputes in the region.
Conclusion
These joint exercises highlight the significance of regional defense partnerships in maintaining stability and security. The collaboration between the Armed Forces of the Philippines and the Marine Nationale not only strengthens bilateral relations but also fortifies the regional maritime security landscape.
As these tensions persist, continued cooperation and comprehensive defense strategies will be essential. TheFriday drills underline the commitment of both nations to address modern security challenges effectively.
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