U.S. and Philippine Armies Conduct Joint Artillery Exercise to Strengthen Regional Defense Cooperation.

​On April 1, 2025, U.S. Army Soldiers from the 2nd Battalion, 11th Field Artillery Regiment, 25th Infantry Division, collaborated with Philippine Army Soldiers from C Battery, 9th Field Artillery Battalion, to conduct joint artillery live-fire training during Exercise Salaknib 25 at Fort Magsaysay, Philippines. This exercise is a key component of the annual Salaknib series, designed to enhance bilateral interoperability, capabilities, trust, and cooperation between the Armed Forces of the Philippines and the U.S. military. ​
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Soldiers from the Philippine Army’s 5th and 7th Infantry Divisions join U.S. Army troops of the 2nd Battalion, 11th Field Artillery Regiment, 25th Infantry Division, in a live-fire training exercise during Salaknib 2025 on April 1, 2025. (Picture source: U.S. DoD)

Salaknib, meaning "shield" in Ilocano, one of the eight major languages of the Philippines, is an annual military exercise that underscores the longstanding defense partnership between the Philippines and the United States. The 2025 iteration marks the tenth occurrence of this exercise, focusing on combined, joint all-domain operations to bolster warfighting capabilities and reinforce the commitment to safeguarding the Philippines' territorial integrity. ​

The live-fire training provided a vital platform for U.S. and Philippine soldiers to exchange tactics, techniques, and procedures, deepening their understanding of each other's operational approaches. This collaboration enhances both countries' defense capabilities and fosters a more robust partnership. U.S. Army Staff Sgt. Roedaneyel Baluyut highlighted the significance of this joint training, stating, "We learn how they operate and vice versa; what we learn from them, we've been working on applying for us to be more efficient, accurate, and always ready." ​

Interoperability between the Philippine and U.S. armies, particularly in field artillery, is crucial for regional security. Such cooperation allows for seamless coordination during joint operations, ensuring that both forces can effectively respond to various contingencies. The integration of artillery units enhances the overall effectiveness of ground operations, providing critical fire support to infantry and armored units. ​

The importance of defense relations between the Philippines and the United States is further highlighted by their collaborative efforts in regional security initiatives. Following Salaknib, both nations are set to conduct Balikatan, an annual joint exercise involving thousands of troops, aimed at enhancing readiness and interoperability. These exercises demonstrate a shared commitment to maintaining peace and stability in the Indo-Pacific region.​

In addition to traditional training exercises, the U.S. has deployed advanced missile systems, such as the Typhon system, to the Philippines. This deployment allows for joint training on cutting-edge technology, further enhancing the combat readiness of both forces. U.S. Maj. Gen. Marcus Evans emphasized the significance of this deployment, noting that it provides an opportunity to understand how to employ such capabilities in the unique environmental challenges of the region. ​

The enduring alliance between the Philippines and the United States, exemplified through exercises like Salaknib and Balikatan, plays a pivotal role in promoting regional security and stability. These joint endeavors not only enhance military capabilities but also strengthen the bonds of friendship and mutual respect between the two nations.​

The joint military exercises between the United States and the Philippines are motivated by a range of regional threats, primarily centered around territorial disputes and assertive actions by neighboring countries. A significant concern is China's expansive claims in the South China Sea, which overlap with the exclusive economic zones of several Southeast Asian nations, including the Philippines. Incidents such as the arrest of Filipino nationals by China on espionage charges have further heightened tensions. Additionally, China's deployment of military assets and construction of artificial islands in contested waters have raised alarms about freedom of navigation and regional stability. These developments underscore the necessity for the Philippines and the U.S. to enhance their defense preparedness and interoperability.​

As of April 2025, the United States maintains a substantial military presence in the Philippines, aimed at bolstering regional security and deterring potential aggressors. This includes rotational deployments of U.S. troops and advanced military hardware under the Enhanced Defense Cooperation Agreement (EDCA). Notably, the U.S. has deployed the Typhon multipurpose missile system to the Philippines, enhancing the country's defensive capabilities. Furthermore, the U.S. Marines have initiated plans to stage equipment at Subic Bay, marking a significant return to this strategic location after more than three decades. These deployments reflect the deepening military cooperation between the two nations and their shared commitment to maintaining peace and stability in the Indo-Pacific region.