PH, Australian navies eye more training operations
The Philippine Navy and the Royal Australian Navy discussed in Manila on Wednesday expanding cooperation on training, interoperability and maritime operations during fresh bilateral talks.
The discussions on Wednesday were led by Rear Adm. Joe Anthony Orbe, commander of the Philippine Fleet, and Vice Adm. Mark Hammond, Australia’s chief of navy. The Philippine Navy said the talks focused on aligning priorities for joint training, capability development and operational cooperation.
The Navy did not specify the planned activities, but included ship visits, subject-matter expert exchanges and maintenance and repair training teams. These initiatives have involved the use of antisubmarine warfare training targets aimed at improving interoperability and operational readiness.
Training and exercises have been a key focus of the two countries’ engagement, with Manila citing continued support from Australia through the Australian Defence Force Cooperation Program, which provides professional development and technical training for Philippine naval personnel.
The Navy said ongoing and planned cooperation has included multilateral maritime activities, including activities that Canberra refers to as “Indo-Pacific Endeavour” exercises, including “Exercise Alon.”
‘New wave’
Exercise Alon, derived from the Tagalog word for wave, was last held from Aug. 15 to Aug. 29 last year in Palawan, Nueva Ecija and the waters of the West Philippine Sea.
It involved over 3,600 personnel, including forces from the US Marine Corps’ Marine Rotation Force–Darwin, Royal Canadian Navy, Royal Australian Air Force and Royal Australian Navy.
Both sides also discussed future engagements, including Orbe’s planned participation in the Fleet Commanders’ Conference during Exercise Kakadu 2026, scheduled for March in Sydney.
The talks form part of the Philippines’ broader effort to strengthen defense ties with regional partners as it seeks to enhance maritime security and coordination amid evolving security challenges in the region.
Both countries have undertaken several joint operations over the years, especially amid growing tension in the West Philippine Sea. Last year, the countries’ defense chiefs reaffirmed cooperation amid growing pressure in the South China Sea.
