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Philippines and US Launch Joint Military Drills with Advanced Missile System

The Balikatan exercises, involving 14,000 troops and the NMESIS anti-ship missile system, are set to begin on April 21 near Taiwan and the South China Sea

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U.S. Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth and Chief of Staff of the Armed Forces of the Philippines Romeo Brawner Jr inspect honor guards during their arrival at Camp Aguinaldo, in Quezon City, Metro Manila, Philippines, March 28, 2025. REUTERS/Lisa Marie David./File Photo
Inside Camp Aguinaldo, the headquarters of the Armed Forces of the Philippines. The Balikatan military drills are set to be held later this month. Photo: Raissa Robles
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Overview

  • The 2025 Balikatan drills will feature 9,000 US troops and 5,000 Filipino troops, with additional participation from Australia and observers from Japan, Poland, and the Czech Republic.
  • For the first time, the NMESIS mobile coastal anti-ship missile system will be deployed, showcasing advanced defense capabilities.
  • The drills will take place in strategically significant areas, including Palawan and Northern Luzon, near Taiwan and the South China Sea.
  • Philippine Brigadier-General Michael Logico described the exercises as a 'full battle test' and a rehearsal for national defense.
  • U.S. Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth reaffirmed the 'ironclad' U.S. commitment to the Mutual Defense Treaty with the Philippines, emphasizing enhanced military cooperation.