PH forces, French Navy carrier group hold MCA in WPS

United Against Maritime Threats: Philippines and France Conduct Joint Exercises in the West Philippine Sea

In a show of unified strength, Filipino and French naval forces conducted a Maritime Cooperative Activity (MCA) in the contested waters of the West Philippine Sea on February 21st. This marks the third consecutive week of joint maritime operations in the area, emphasizing the growing strategic partnership between the two nations.

The exercises, conducted within the operational jurisdiction of the Northern Luzon Command, aimed to solidify interoperability, dialogue, and defense capabilities between the Philippine and French forces. “Through joint maritime cooperative activities and collaborative efforts, the AFP seeks to build a stronger, more resilient defense system that is prepared to address the challenges of the modern security landscape,” stated General Romeo S Brawner Jr., AFP Chief of Staff.

A Powerful Display of Force

Representing the Philippines,the contingent consisted of the newly commissioned guided missile frigate BRP Jose Rizal (FF150),the offshore patrol vessel BRP Gregorio del Pilar (PS15),C90 aircraft,two FA50 Golden Eagle multi-role fighters,and Philippine Air Force Search and Rescue (SAR) units.The French navy deployed a formidable aircraft carrier strike group centered around the Charles De Gaulle (R91), as well as the Fregate Europeenne Multi-Mission Destroyer Provence (D652), Force Supply Vessel Jacques Chevallier (A725), air Defense Destroyer Forbin (D620), and aquitaine-class frigate Alsace (D656). The flagship Charles De Gaulle was accompanied by squadrons of Rafale strike fighters and E-2C Hawkeye command airborne early warning (AEW) aircraft.

Collaborative Exercises Enhance Readiness

The MCA encompassed a wide range of activities designed to test and refine joint operational capabilities. These included communications Check exercise (COMMEX), Division Tactics/Officer of the Watch (DIVTACS/OOW) maneuvers, Photo Exercise (PHOTOEX), Replenishment at Sea, personnel exchange through rigid hull inflatable boats, Anti-submarine warfare exercises, and Dissimilar Aircraft Combat Training.

Strengthening Posture in the Region

This joint exercise comes at a time of heightened tensions in the West Philippine Sea. Recent events, including the “perilous” flight of a Chinese military helicopter three meters from a Filipino aircraft over bajo de Masinloc, underscore the importance of regional security cooperation. “This is its most dangerous” action so far, stated the Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) on Wednesday. In response, the Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources (BFAR) has deployed additional aircraft to the disputed waters, demonstrating the Philippines’ commitment to protecting its maritime claims.

The Philippines and france’s collaborative efforts in the West Philippine Sea serve as a potent symbol of their shared commitment to maritime security and regional stability. By strengthening interoperability and demonstrating a united front, these nations send a clear message that they will work together to address challenges and ensure peace in the region.

How can regional actors benefit from similar collaborative maritime efforts?

Naval Diplomacy in Action: A Dialog with Admiral örtük Berkay

In the wake of thelatest joint maritime exercises in the West Philippine Sea, we sat down with Admiral véritable ortük Berkay, a distinguished naval strategist and visiting fellow at the philippines National defense College, to discuss the significance of thes collaborative efforts and their impact on regional security.

Strengthening Bonds, Heightening Readiness

Archyde: Admiral Berkay, thank you for joining us today. To start, could you tell us about the recent joint maritime cooperative activity (MCA) between the Philippines and France in the West Philippine Sea?

Admiral Berkay: Thank you for having me. The recent MCA was indeed a powerful display of Solidarity and collective defense. We saw the Philippine Navy’s BRP Jose Rizal and BRP Gregorio del Pilar, along with a diverse French naval contingent centered around the Charles de Gaulle carrier strike group, working together to enhance interoperability and readiness.

Archyde: That’s an remarkable lineup. What specific exercises were conducted, and how do they contribute to regional security?

Admiral Berkay: A variety of exercises were conducted, including COMMEX for communications drills, DIVTACS/OOW maneuvers to test tactical coordination, and even personnel exchanges via rigid-hull inflatable boats. These showcase a collective commitment to improving communication,coordination,and cooperation in the face of maritime challenges.

Sending a Clear Message

Archyde: Tensions in the West Philippine Sea have been running high lately. How do joint exercises like these help address regional challenges?

Admiral Berkay: They send a clear message that Philippine and French forces are united in their commitment to maritime security and stability. By showcasing our ability to work together seamlessly, we demonstrate a shared resolve against any threats to freedom of navigation and overflight, and territorial integrity.

Archyde: That resolve was tested recently with a ‘perilous’ encounter between Philippine and Chinese aircraft. How should regional actors respond to such incidents?

Admiral Berkay: Such incidents warrant a firm yet measured response, emphasizing the importance of adhering to international law and maintaining peace and stability. It underscores the need for robust defense cooperation and routine joint exercises like these.

Looking Ahead: A Future of Collaboration

Archyde: What’s next for the Philippines and France in their collaborative maritime efforts?

Admiral Berkay: We can expect more of these joint activities, along with enhanced dialogues and data-sharing.The goal is not just to build a strong, единый defense alliance, but also to foster understanding and mutual respect among our forces.

Archyde: And Admiral, what would you like to see in terms of reader engagement and discussion following this interview?

Admiral Berkay: I would encourage readers to explore how other regional actors can benefit from similar collaborative efforts. Let’s discuss how joint maritime exercises can contribute to a more stable and secure habitat for all in the West Philippine Sea.