Philippines, Japan Hold First-Ever Combined Live-Fire Drills in Historic Armor Exercise

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CAMP O’DONNELL, Capas, Tarlac — In a historic first, the Philippine Army and the Japan Ground Self-Defense Force (JGSDF) successfully conducted a combined live-fire exercise, marking a significant milestone in defense cooperation between the two nations.

Dubbed “Target Hit,” the joint activity brought together the Philippine Army’s Armor (Pambato) Division and JGSDF units for a Subject Matter Expert Exchange (SMEE) and live-fire drills held from May 1 to 2, 2026, at the Col. Ernesto Rabina Air Base (CERAB) in Santa Juliana, Capas, Tarlac.

The exercise showcased the growing interoperability between the two forces, featuring the Philippine Army’s Sabrah Light Tanks from the 1st Tank Battalion alongside the JGSDF’s Maneuver Combat Vehicles (MCV) from its Reconnaissance Combat Battalion. The coordinated maneuvers demonstrated modern armored warfare techniques, from target acquisition and enemy position fixing to precision engagement and neutralization.

Prior to the live-fire event, troops engaged in a SMEE, exchanging knowledge and best practices on armored operations. The combined drills also emphasized strict adherence to safety protocols, including contingency measures for misfires and equipment malfunctions, ensuring both operational efficiency and personnel safety.

Key military leaders from the Philippines, Japan, and allied forces witnessed the exercise, underscoring its strategic importance. Among them were Philippine Army Vice Commander Major General Efren F. Morados, Armor Division Commander Brigadier General Ronel R. Manalo, and JGSDF Deputy Brigade Commander Colonel Yoshifumi Ogura. Representatives from partner institutions and allied forces also attended, highlighting the multinational support for the initiative.

Brigadier General Manalo emphasized that the SMEE and live-fire drills enhanced tactical interoperability and aligned with the Philippine Army’s shift toward External Defense Operations. “This collaboration not only showcases our armored capabilities but also strengthens our shared commitment to regional peace and stability,” he said.

Major General Morados echoed this sentiment, noting that the activity significantly boosts operational readiness. He added that the exercise, conducted under Salaknib 2026 Phase 1, reflects the enduring alliance and collective resolve of partner nations to maintain a secure and stable region.

The successful execution of this first-ever combined live-fire exercise signals a new chapter in Philippines-Japan defense relations—one anchored on mutual trust, modern capability development, and a unified vision for peace in the Indo-Pacific.

angelfaith.ph

Ms. Angel Faith Danganan serves as the President of Central Luzon Balita and has worked as a broadcast journalist with the news group for less than a decade. Originally from Capas, Tarlac, she actively participates in numerous civic groups and public service initiatives. She took up her Broadcast communication studies at the Polytechnic University of the Philippines (PUP) Manila.