Philippine Army and Philippine Marine Corps deployed a wide array of military

On May 3, the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) collaborated with U.S. forces to showcase their coordinated firepower and swift response capabilities during a high-intensity Counter-Landing and Live-Fire Exercise in Barangay Dodan, Aparri, Cagayan.

This event was part of Exercise Balikatan 40-25. The drill involved detecting an Amphibious Task Group simulating a threat as they attempted to land on the northern coastline. In quick response, joint Philippine and U.S. troops launched a synchronized counter-landing operation to thwart the enemy from gaining a foothold in the area, highlighting their combined strength and seamless operational integration.

The Philippine Army and Philippine Marine Corps deployed a wide array of military assets, including Sabrah battle tanks, Light Armored Vehicles (LAVs), ATMOS 155mm self-propelled howitzers, and firepower from 105mm howitzers.

Enhanced targeting systems like the Smart Shooter, along with infantry maneuver units, further strengthened the defensive operation. U.S. forces provided substantial air and ground support with key assets such as AH-64 Apache helicopters, F-16 fighter jets, and a P-8A Poseidon aircraft for maritime surveillance and reconnaissance. They offered real-time targeting assistance using advanced cuing and sensing systems, complemented by direct small arms support. The exercise featured participation from the Philippine Marine Corps, Philippine Army, Special Operations Command, Marine Reservists, and the Philippine Air Force, all collaborating closely with their U.S. counterparts from the U.S. Marine Corps, U.S. Army, artillery units, and safety teams.

This live-fire exercise showcased the precision and readiness of allied forces, reinforcing their joint commitment to safeguarding strategic coastal areas and maintaining maritime security in the Indo-Pacific region. Photos by Public Affairs Office, AFP #ExerciseBalikatan #BK2025 #AFPyoucanTRUST #OneAFPOnePhilippines #StrongAFPStrongPhilippines #OurSeasOurRightsOurFuture