The Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP), United States Indo-Pacific Command (USINDOPACOM) and the French Navy successfully conducted a Simulated Replenishment at Sea (RAS) exercise on 26 April 2024 as part of the ongoing Multilateral Maritime Exercise (MME) in the West Philippine Sea.
The exercise was led by the BRP Ramon Alcaraz (PS16), with participation from FS Vendemiaire (FFH734), BRP Davao del Sur (LD602), and USS Harpers Ferry (LSD49).
The Replenishment at Sea exercise is critical for maintaining operational readiness and extending the operational range of naval fleets. It ensures that vessels can be resupplied while at sea, allowing them to remain operational without the need for frequent port visits.
During the exercise, BRP Ramon Alcaraz directed the participating units with tactical messages, instructing them to approach from her portside at a distance of no less than 80 yards. BRP Davao del Sur was the first to approach, followed by FS Vendemiaire and USS Harpers Ferry.
A continuation of Cross Deck Landing exercise involving BRP Ramon Alcaraz (PS16), BRP Davao del Sur (LD602), USS Harpers Ferry (LSD49), and a Philippine Navy Helicopter (NH434) was also conducted. The exercise tested the coordination and precision required for helicopter landings on different vessels, a vital skill in complex naval operations.
The MME which started on April 25 is part of the 39th iteration of the Balikatan Exercise. It is one of the major components of Balikatan which aims to enhance the participating naval forces’ interoperability.///
Photo by: AFP Western Command
