The Philippine Army (PA) and the United States Army Pacific (USARPAC) will conduct a live-fire exercise called Operation Lightning Strike on June 30 in Palayan City, Nueva Ecija, featuring the firing of two HIMARS rocket launchers and the use of four AH-64 Apache attack helicopters.
This coordinated deep attack drill is part of Phase 2 of Exercise Salaknib, which aims to enhance joint interoperability and tactical proficiency between the two forces.
Exercise SABAK 25, which combines the PA-led Salaknib and the broader Balikatan exercises, focuses on improving operational command, combined arms maneuvers, and live-fire capabilities.
The drills are taking place from May 19 to July 20 in multiple locations, including Fort Bonifacio and areas in Northern and Central Luzon.
Meanwhile, the PA recently concluded a month-long bilateral exercise with the Australian Defense Force called Kasangga, where 140 Filipino troops trained alongside 90 Australian soldiers in Mindanao.
Source: PhilNews24 | June 26, 2025
