By Priam Nepomuceno | Philippine News Agency
Participants of the “Salaknib” exercises from the Philippine Army (PA) and the US Army Pacific (USARPAC) have conducted a series of drills that would increase interoperability between Filipino and American military units.
Army Spokesperson Col. Louie Dema-ala, in a media statement Wednesday (April 8), said these drills, under the first phase of the exercises, include radio communication, field artillery live fire, sling load operations using helicopters, and medical evacuation.
He added that these “subject matter expert exchanges” (SMEEs), crucial in warfighting functions, took place in Fort Magsaysay, Nueva Ecija.
Dema-ala also said PA and USARPAC signalers have trained to familiarize and operate each other’s radio equipment. Participating Filipino and American units constructed an antenna in two separate locations to establish a line of communication between both systems.
On the field artillery live-fire training, Dema-ala said PA and USARPAC cannoneers exchanged tactics, techniques, and procedures, deepening their understanding of each other’s operational approaches.
“The said training simulated the integration of both forces to enhance the overall effectiveness of ground operations, providing critical fire support to infantry and armored units,” he added.
PA and USARPAC troops likewise conducted sling load operations to improve their skills in airlift and logistics.
Dema-ala said sling load operations could provide rapid movement of heavy, outsized equipment or emergency supplies directly to forces on the ground by bypassing surface obstacles and allowing for rapid relocation.
Aside from this, PA medics and their counterparts teamed up for a medical evacuation or MEDEVAC-focused SMEE.
“Both forces gained practical knowledge in MEDEVAC procedures, equipment handling, and patient transport techniques designed for combined operations in austere environments,” Dema-ala said.
“Salaknib,” which means “shield” in Ilocano, reflects the historical bond between the two nations dating back to World War II, when Filipino and American troops fought side-by-side to defend freedom and democracy.
“Salaknib” Phase 1, scheduled from March 24 to April 11, is the 10th iteration of the annual military maneuvers between Filipino and American troops.
“Salaknib” Phase 2 is scheduled from May 19 to July 20. (PNA)
