The Philippines and France have strengthened their defense partnership with the successful completion of a bilateral Maritime Cooperative Activity (MCA) off the southern portion of Eastern Mindanao on November 28—an operation aimed at enhancing interoperability, maritime security, and domain awareness in Philippine waters.
Held in one of the country’s most strategic maritime corridors, the joint activity brought together naval and air assets from both nations. The Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) deployed BRP Artemio Ricarte (PS-37), a C-208B aircraft, a Black Hawk helicopter, and three FA-50 fighter jets. These worked in tandem with a French frigate and helicopter tasked to support the operation.
Throughout the MCA, participating forces undertook key naval events designed to strengthen tactical coordination and operational compatibility. These included Division Tactical Maneuvers (DIVTACS) and Officer-of-the-Watch (OOW) drills—exercises that hone navigation precision, formation changes, and command execution. Another major highlight was the Replenishment-at-Sea (RAS) Approach, a complex maneuver essential for sustaining fleet operations over extended periods.
The activity marks another milestone in the steadily growing defense cooperation between Manila and Paris. Both nations said the joint exercise underscores their shared commitment to maintaining maritime security, reinforcing partnerships, and promoting a rules-based international order in the Indo-Pacific.
Officials noted that the MCA not only boosts operational familiarity and mutual trust between the two countries, but also supports broader efforts to enhance regional stability amid evolving maritime challenges.