As part of the ongoing Salaknib 2025 exercise, forces from the U.S. Army Pacific (USARPAC) and the Philippine Army successfully conducted a complex Air Assault and Airport Seizure operation in Calayan, Philippines, on May 24. This critical maneuver was a central component of Maritime Key Terrain Security Operations, designed to enhance the combined forces' ability to secure vital strategic locations.
The exercise utilized a range of assets, including the V-22 Osprey, rotary-wing aircraft such as the CH-47 Chinook and UH-60 Black Hawk—among others—to support the air-ground maneuver and coordinated seizure of the airstrip.
The overarching objectives of Salaknib focus on strengthening interoperability, enhancing readiness, and fostering a deeper understanding of each other's military doctrines and procedures.