The Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) on Tuesday welcomed the deployment of advanced U.S. weapons systems in the ongoing “Balikatan” 2025 exercises, describing it as a significant step in enhancing joint training and supporting the country’s military modernization efforts.
AFP spokesperson Col. Francel Margareth Padilla said the inclusion of the Navy-Marine Expeditionary Ship Interdiction System (NMESIS), the Medium Range Capability Typhon (MRC), and the Marine Air Defense Integrated System (MADIS) in this year’s drills will help improve interoperability and operational readiness.
The NMESIS is a mobile anti-ship missile platform with a range of 100 nautical miles, while the MRC Typhon can launch long-range missiles like the Tomahawk and Standard Missile-6, with a range exceeding 1,000 nautical miles. The MADIS, mounted on Joint Light Tactical Vehicles (JLTVs), combines air defense missiles, 30mm cannons, and radar systems to track and neutralize aerial threats.
Padilla noted that these systems were deployed primarily for training purposes, enabling Filipino troops to better understand and integrate advanced capabilities.
At the opening ceremony, U.S. Marine Forces Pacific commander Lt. Gen. James Glynn said the joint exercises reflect both nations’ commitment to regional security and maintaining a free and open Indo-Pacific.
This year’s Balikatan, the largest to date, involves around 17,000 troops from the Philippines and the United States. The exercises, which run until May 9, aim to strengthen tactical proficiency and military coordination. Partner nations including Australia, Japan, the United Kingdom, France, and Canada have also sent contingents.
However, the expanded drills have drawn criticism from China. The Chinese Foreign Ministry labeled the exercises “detrimental to regional stability,” accusing the Philippines of aligning with powers outside the region at the expense of regional cooperation.
Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesperson Guo Jiakun said that at a time when the region is calling for unity and collaboration, the Philippines’ choice to host large-scale military drills with foreign powers undermines strategic stability and economic prospects in the region.
