An advanced U.S. anti-ship missile system, the Navy-Marine Expeditionary Ship Interdiction System (NMESIS), will be used in the 2025 Balikatan exercises involving 14,000 troops from the Philippines and the U.S., alongside active participants from Japan and Australia.
The drills, which run until May 9, also feature integrated air and missile defense exercises and live-fire demonstrations.
President Marcos is expected to observe one of the drills personally, expressing keen interest in the integrated defense activities. U.S. planners noted the possibility of NMESIS remaining in the country for future exercises if requested by the AFP.
The Balikatan has evolved into a full battle test, integrating both field and command post exercises to strengthen joint military readiness under the Mutual Defense Treaty.
Source: PhilNews24 | April 16, 2025
