Hundreds of Australian Land Forces Arrive in Philippines to joint Largest Military Exericise with US

Australian teams undertook “shoulder to shoulder” (Balikatan) training in marksmanship, combat shooting, reconnaissance and combat first aid before moving north and attaching to the AFP 7th Division and the US Army 1st/27th Infantry Division for the main exercise. The Australian Defence Force (ADF) support of Exercise Balikatan 2023 in the Philippines. This exercise designed to enhance interoperability and support AFP’s transition from an internal security to a territorial defence force. A contingent of approximately 100 ADF personnel participated in multiple complex scenarios throughout the Philippines, including field training and live fire activities Knowing that the soldiers their trained had come directly off combat operations within their own region and potentially going back into conflict made it personally rewarding to provide them with useful skills for practical application The training team deployed to the Philippines as part of Australia’s Enhanced Defence Cooperation Program with the Philippines and has delivered bespoke training including tactical lessons in combat shooting, urban clearance, first aid and explosive breaching drills. Australia has a longstanding relationship with the Philippines and the United States dating back to the Second World War that has contributed to regional security and stability, and has participated in Exercise Balikatan since 2014.