The Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP), in partnership with United States forces, demonstrated synchronized firepower and rapid response as they conducted a high-intensity Counterlanding and Live-Fire Exercise on May 3 in Barangay Dodan, Aparri, Cagayan — a key event under Exercise Balikatan 40-25.
The drill simulation highlighted the detection of an Amphibious Task Group representing a threat force attempting to land along the northern coastline. In rapid response, joint Philippine-U.S. forces executed a coordinated counter-landing operation to prevent them from establishing a foothold in the area, demonstrating combined strength and seamless interoperability.
The Philippine Army and the Philippine Marine Corps mobilized a robust array of assets, including Sabrah battle tanks, Light Armored Vehicles (LAVs), ATMOS 155mm self-propelled howitzers, and additional firepower from 105mm howitzers. Advanced targeting systems such as the Smart Shooter and infantry maneuver elements further amplified the defensive response.
Meanwhile, U.S. forces delivered overwhelming air and ground support. Key assets included AH-64 Apache attack helicopters, F-16 aircrafts, and a P-8A Poseidon aircraft conducting maritime surveillance and reconnaissance. They also provided real-time targeting through cutting-edge cuing and sensing systems, with direct small arms support.
Participating Philippine units included the Philippine Marine Corps, Philippine Army, Special Operations Command, Marine Reservists, and the Philippine Air Force, working closely alongside U.S. counterparts from the U.S. Marine Corps, U.S. Army, artillery units, and safety teams.
This live-fire drill demonstrated the precision and combat readiness of allied forces and reinforced their shared resolve to protect strategic coastal areas and uphold maritime security in the Indo-Pacific region.
Photo by Public Affairs Office, AFP
