PH, US forces to sink old ship
PH, US forces to sink old ship
TROOPS from the Philippine and United States military will take part in a simulated maritime strike off the coast of Zambales as this year's Balikatan exercise continues today, May 5.
Balikatan spokesman Brig. Gen. Michael Logico said in an interview that unlike in the last maritime strike last week off the coast of Zambales, Monday's event will be held 30 to 40 miles from shore, but still within the Philippine exclusive economic zone (EEZ).
Once again, Chinese warships and research vessels were seen observing the drills.
The maritime strike involves the sinking of a decommissioned Philippine Navy, the BRP Miguel Malvar using sophisticated air and ground weaponry.
Logico said the US will deploy its bomber planes and fighter jets in the live-fire drill.
The Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP), meanwhile, will field FA-50 fighter jets and A-29 Super Tucanos.
Logico said the BRP Pangasinan was the target in the first maritime strike and the BRP Caliraya in the second strike.
Logico said the maritime strikes hoped to achieve a "joint and combined interoperability and the lethality of our weapon systems."
On Saturday, allied forces demonstrated synchronized firepower and rapid response during the high-intensity counter-landing and live-fire exercise in Barangay Dodan, Aparri, Cagayan, a key event of Balikatan.
The object of the drill was to prevent an enemy force from establishing a foothold through an amphibious landing.
The Philippine Army and the Philippine Marine Corps mobilized a robust array of assets, including Sabrah battle tanks, Light Armored Vehicles (LAVs), Atmos 155 mm self-propelled howitzers and additional firepower from 105 mm howitzers.
Advanced targeting systems such as the Smart Shooter and infantry maneuver elements were also highlighted.
US forces delivered overwhelming air and ground support, using AH-64 Apache attack helicopters, F-16 aircrafts, and a P-8A Poseidon aircraft conducting maritime surveillance and reconnaissance.
Philippine units participating in Balikatan included the Marine Corps, Army, Special Operations Command, Marine Reservists, and the Philippine Air Force.WITH THE PHILIPPINE NEWS AGENCY
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