For the third time, the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) and the Japan Maritime Self-Defense Force (JMSDF) carried out the Maritime Cooperative Activity (MCA) on November 29 in the West Philippine Sea, continuing the steady growth of defense cooperation between the two countries.
The AFP deployed BRP Antonio Luna (FF151), a PN AW159 (NH441), and the Philippine Air Force’s C-208B surveillance aircraft. The JMSDF participated with the JS Harusame (DD102) and an SH-60K helicopter.
Both forces conducted a series of interoperability activities, including Division Tactics/Officer of the Watch (DIVTACS/OOW) Maneuver, where participating ships practiced coordinated movements and station-keeping, and a PHOTOEX, which involved maintaining precise formation for documentation.
A cross-deck landing exercise was also held to familiarize helicopter crews and ship personnel with each other’s deck procedures and enhance coordination in aviation operations.
The activity was conducted a day after the successful PH–France MCA on 28 November in the southern portion of Eastern Mindanao, reflecting the AFP’s ongoing efforts to broaden cooperation and maintain regular engagements with other defense forces.
