The Philippine Army (PA) announced over the weekend that it had, as part of war simulation exercises with U.S. Army Pacific troops, carried out air assault drills as part of Salaknib Phase 2 at Camp Melchor Dela Cruz in Upi, Gamu, Isabela, last week.
The PA’s announcement came even as the Trump administration has ordered very real airstrikes against nuclear targets in Iran.
Utilizing UH-60 Black Hawk and Chinook helicopters, the air assault exercise involved the insertion of troops via choppers into a designated zone, simulating a rapid deployment scenario.
“This exercise demonstrates the combined capabilities of the Philippine Army and U.S. Army Pacific troops in conducting complex military operations.” Army Spokesperson Col. Louie Dema-ala said.
He pointed out that the annual Salaknib Exercise with American allies supports the Philippine Army’s strategic thrust to develop an agile force that is capable of swift deployment across diverse operational scenarios.
