(Manila, 25th) — The Philippine Army (PA) and the United States Army Pacific (USARPAC) will jointly conduct a military exercise codenamed 'Operation Lightning Strike' in Palayan City, Nueva Ecija, on June 30. The US side will deploy two High Mobility Artillery Rocket System (HIMARS) units and four AH-64 'Apache' attack helicopters.
According to a statement released Wednesday by Philippine Army spokesperson Colonel Louie Dema-ala, the exercise is part of the second phase of 'Salaknib', aimed at strengthening the interoperability and tactical proficiency of the Philippine and US armed forces.
The Philippine Army Artillery Regiment will conduct an intensive coordinated strike drill with the US 25th Infantry Division, codenamed 'Operation Lightning Strike'. This exercise will use four Apache attack helicopters and two HIMARS systems in a controlled environment, he said.
AH-64 'Apache' is a twin-engine attack helicopter with a maximum flight speed of 158 knots, equipped with a 30mm chain gun and various rockets and missiles. It is suitable for close air support missions and has a combat radius of 260 nautical miles.
HIMARS (High Mobility Artillery Rocket System) is an all-weather, highly accurate long-range strike weapon system featuring rapid deployment and efficient firepower capabilities, widely used in joint expeditionary operations and suppressing enemy artillery.
The second phase of 'Salaknib' began on May 19 and is expected to conclude with a closing ceremony on July 7 at Fort Magsaysay in Nueva Ecija, to be presided over by Philippine Army Commander Lt. Gen. Roy Galido.
'Salaknib' means 'shield' in Ilocano, symbolizing the profound historical partnership between the Philippines and the US in defending freedom and democracy since World War II. The first phase of the exercise was successfully conducted from March 24 to April 11. This marks the 10th annual joint military exercise between the two armies.