Hundreds of American and Filipino troops recently completed a rigorous combat exercise in the northern Philippines, testing their endurance in challenging conditions. The exercise aimed to prepare them to respond effectively to threats in tropical jungles and on scattered islands, according to U.S. and Philippine generals.
The Biden administration has been strengthening military alliances in the Indo-Pacific region to counter China, particularly in potential confrontations over Taiwan and other flashpoints in Asia. This effort aligns with Philippine initiatives to bolster territorial defenses amid escalating disputes with Beijing in the South China Sea.
The large-scale battle drills, previously held in Hawaii, have now been introduced in the Philippines and Alaska this year. These exercises provide training opportunities for the U.S. Army, its allies, and friendly forces in extreme conditions, ranging from tropical jungles to Arctic environments.
The recent warfighting exercise, conducted from June 1-10, involved an air assault on mock enemy forces, followed by the deployment of U.S. and Filipino soldiers to secure an area for a major offensive. When supply lines were threatened, commanders shifted to a defensive assault and successfully repelled the enemy before launching their offensive.
The combat exercises were integrated into the annual U.S.-Philippine army joint exercises called Salaknib for the first time this year. Approximately 1,500 U.S. and Filipino soldiers participated in the drills held at Fort Magsaysay, known for its challenging terrain and scorching weather exacerbated by El Nino.
Maj. Gen. Marcus Evans, commander of the U.S. Army’s 25th Infantry Division, highlighted the difficulty of the terrain and extreme temperatures faced by the soldiers during the exercise. He emphasized the importance of coordinating artillery and aerial maneuvers in such challenging conditions to enhance training value.
Philippine army Maj. Gen. Andrew de Lara Costelo emphasized the drills' role in fostering interoperability among U.S., Philippine, and potentially other allied forces for future contingencies. By working together, the forces aim to harness their combined strengths and capabilities to address any challenges that may arise.
The combat exercises followed two larger back-to-back exercises earlier this year, involving over 16,000 U.S. and Philippine military personnel in live-fire drills near the disputed South China Sea. These exercises drew military observers from several countries.
China has expressed opposition to the increased U.S. military presence in the region, including in the Philippines, citing concerns about regional stability. However, the Philippine military maintains that the drills are not directed at any specific country but rather serve as a deterrent against aggression.
President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. defended the decision to allow a U.S. military presence in more Philippine military camps under a 2014 defense pact, emphasizing its importance for the country's territorial defense. China has cautioned against the growing U.S. military presence, warning of potential geopolitical tensions.
