Service members from the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) and the United States Armed Forces, participating in Exercise Balikatan 40-25, conducted a Cyber Defense Exercise (CYDEX). Launched on April 21 and continuing through May 9, 2025, CYDEX is being simultaneously carried out across various AFP units.
Today’s activity was observed by representatives from the Colombian Armed Forces, United States Indo-Pacific Command (INDOPACOM), Canadian Armed Forces, Japan Air Self-Defense Force, the Philippine Coast Guard (PCG), and the AFP Cyber Command’s Cybersecurity Incident Response Team.
This exercise is a key component of this year’s Balikatan, designed to strengthen mutual cyber defense capabilities and enhance interoperability in responding to evolving digital challenges. CYDEX brought together personnel from both nations to simulate real-world scenarios, share best practices, and develop coordinated response strategies to defend critical information infrastructure.
Cybersecurity is a vital aspect of modern military operations, and through CYDEX, the AFP underscores the importance of collaborative training in addressing cyber challenges. This exercise not only enhances technical capabilities but also strengthens trust and coordination with allied nations.
