By Luke Allen
Military, political Analyst
This year’s Balikatan exercise, an annual training collaboration between the United States and the Philippines, is set to be unique. The name ‘Balikatan,’ meaning ‘shoulder-to-shoulder’ in Tagalog, symbolizes the close cooperation between the two nations. However, what sets this year apart is the inclusion of Australian and French participants, a significant step that underscores the importance of international collaboration in the region’s security.
The Balikatan exercise, known for its diverse training modules such as military planning, humanitarian assistance and disaster relief operations, counter-terrorism operations, and other activities, is set to showcase unique features this year. These features are designed to pique the interest and engagement of the participants, enhancing their capabilities to work together effectively in various scenarios.
The exercise is being run a little differently this year. The Philippines Coast Guard will enforce a unique security perimeter, taking a proactive stance to prevent unauthorized vessels from entering the Balikatan site. Admiral Armand Balilo stated that the Coast Guard would react in a limited capacity. This innovative approach is seen as a way to reduce interference by Chinese maritime militia, which now numbers over 124 vessels in the West Philippine Sea.
This year’s Balikatan exercise will place a significant emphasis on the Philippines Archipelagic Defense Concept, a strategic vision championed by Defense Chief Gilbert Theodoro. This concept, which involves the integration of all branches of the Philippines’ armed forces to safeguard territorial waters, marks a profound shift in the exercise’s focus, reflecting the country’s evolving defense strategy. For the first time, the exercise will extend beyond the Philippines’ territorial waters to its Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ).
This year, 14 different countries are participating or observing the exercise. It will include over 16000 troops and an aircraft carrier strike group. During the exercises, the US Marines will deploy their HIMAR missile system for logistical training and will not fire it. This year’s exercises will include maritime security, air and missile defense, dynamic missile strikes, and cyber defense.
Of course, China views this as a provocation. Zhang Youxia, vice chairman of the Central Military Commission, stated that the oceans should not be an arena for countries to show off their force and engage in ‘gunboat diplomacy.’ China should understand that an important message is also being transmitted, and that is, the Philippines is not alone.
It is important to remember that the exercise also serves to strengthen the military relationship between the United States and the Philippines and demonstrates their commitment to mutual defense and security in the region. Balikatan exercises have been conducted for many years and have evolved to address contemporary security challenges facing both countries.
