A counter-landing live fire exercise was conducted in Palawan as part of the Balikatan Exercises 2026, involving forces from the Armed Forces of the Philippines, the United States, Australia, and New Zealand.
Held at Apurawan Beach in Aborlan, the drill simulated an enemy amphibious landing, with the Philippine Marine Corps leading efforts to detect and repel hostile forces.
The Philippine Air Force deployed FA-50 fighter jets, while US troops provided rocket artillery support using HIMARS systems.
Additional exercises included non-combatant evacuation operations in nearby areas to test crisis response capabilities.
Senior military officials from allied forces, including AFP Chief Gen. Romeo Brawner Jr., observed the exercise, underscoring strengthened regional defense cooperation.
Source: PhilNews24 | April 29, 2026
