The Philippine Air Force (PAF) provided aerial support during the live fire exercise showcasing the precision strike capabilities of Japan’s Type 88 Surface-to-Ship Guided Missile System as part of Exercise Balikatan 41-2026 on May 6, 2026, in Ilocos Norte. The activity, graced by Philippine Defense Secretary Gilberto C. Teodoro Jr. and Japanese Defense Minister Shinjirō Koizumi, and witnessed by international observers from partner nations, involved a decommissioned Philippine Navy vessel as the target, demonstrating realistic maritime strike operations and strengthening multilateral cooperation among participating forces.
During the exercise, FA-50PH fighter aircraft conducted aerial support operations, contributing to the overall execution of the live fire activity. The integration of air assets with ground-based missile systems highlighted coordinated joint and combined operations aimed at improving combat capabilities, enhancing interoperability, and strengthening operational collaboration among allied forces. The activity also reflects the growing defense partnership between the Philippines and Japan, enabled by the Reciprocal Access Agreement (RAA), which supports expanded participation in large-scale exercises such as Balikatan.
The conduct of the activity underscores the importance of sustained joint training in addressing evolving security challenges in the maritime domain. In line with the objectives of Exercise Balikatan, it reinforces operational readiness and validates defense capabilities in support of national security. It also supports the Philippine Air Force’s thrust of building a mission-ready, capability-driven, and values-based organization, contributing to a secure and stable Indo-Pacific region. (PR)
