PHILIPPINES AND FRANCE COLLABORATE ON MARITIME SECURITY DRILLS IN THE WEST PHILIPPINE SEA

The Philippines and France conducted joint naval and air operations in the West Philippine Sea on Friday to bolster defense cooperation and address rising geopolitical tensions in the Indo-Pacific.
The Maritime Cooperative Activity (MCA) involved the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) and the French Carrier Strike Group, showcasing both nations’ military capabilities to improve interoperability and strategic defense.
The French fleet, led by the aircraft carrier Charles De Gaulle, joined by several vessels, and the Philippine Navy and Air Force deployed key assets, including fighter jets and ships.
The exercises included anti-submarine warfare drills, personnel exchanges, and combat training to enhance defense readiness.
This exercise, part of France’s Mission CLEMENCEAU 25, is the third MCA this month, following similar activities with the US, Australia, and Japan.