NAVAL EXERCISES. The BRP Antonio Luna (FF-151), one of the two guided missile frigates, is joining this year's Exercise Pagbubuklod to be held in the waters off Zambales on Oct. 25-26, 2023. The Philippine Fleet's naval and air assets are participating in anti-submarine and surface warfare exercises to enhance its units' proficiency and interoperability. (Photo courtesy of Philippine Navy)
MANILA – The Philippine Fleet's naval and air assets are joining the anti-submarine and surface warfare exercises to enhance its units' proficiency and interoperability.
Lt. Giovanni Badidles, the fleet's spokesperson, said on Wednesday the naval exercises, taking place mostly in Zambales waters, are part of the seagoing phase of Exercise Pagbubuklod 12-2023 on Oct. 25-26.
Participating naval and air assets include missile frigates, the BRP Jose Rizal (FF-150) and BRP Antonio Luna (FF-151), BRP Valentin Diaz (PS-177), BRP Lolinato To-Ong (PG-902), BRP Gener Tinangag (PG-903), multi-purpose attack craft BA-492, BA-493, BA-494, along with AugustaWestland AW-109 naval helicopter and Islander patrol aircraft NV-351 and NV-353.
The units will also conduct tactical fleet operations in line with C4ISR (Command, Control, Communications, Computers, Intelligence, Surveillance and Reconnaissance) interdiction; surface, air, subsurface maneuver and integrated fleet support system.
PF commander Rear Admiral Renato David said part of their mandate is to continuously train fleet forces to assure that they are providing the naval forces and unified command "highly competent sailors and aviators for mission success." (PNA)
