In a stunning display of international military cooperation, the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) and the French Navy have joined forces in the West Philippine Sea, marking a significant stride in global maritime security. The event, which took place on February 21, 2025, featured a breathtaking flyby of fighter jets from both nations, soaring alongside the iconic French aircraft carrier Charles de Gaulle. This cooperative activity, the third in a series within three weeks, was conducted in the operational area overseen by the Northern Luzon Command.
The AFP deployed an impressive array of assets for the exercise, including the missile frigate BRP Jose Rizal, the offshore patrol vessel BRP Gregorio del Pilar, a C-90 patrol aircraft, two FA-50PH light jet fighters, and search-and-rescue units from the Philippine Air Force. On the French side, the Charles de Gaulle was accompanied by the Aquitaine-class frigates Provence and Alsace, the force supply vessel Jacques Chevallier, and the Horizon-class air defense destroyer Forbin.
The joint activities were designed to bolster interoperability, communication, and defense capabilities between the two forces. The drills included a variety of exercises such as communications checks, division tactics, photo exercises, replenishment at sea, personnel exchanges, anti-submarine warfare, and dissimilar aircraft combat training.
This series of maritime cooperative activities with like-minded nations highlights the increasing international attention on maritime security in the West Philippine Sea. The AFP’s commitment to these joint efforts is part of a broader strategy to enhance its defense system and prepare for the challenges of the modern security environment, as emphasized by AFP chief Gen. Romeo Brawner Jr.