US-led security cooperation in the Philippines

The United States has initiated efforts to increase combat readiness and strengthen security alliances across Asia, specifically targeting territorial disputes in the South China Sea. Admiral Frank Bradley, commander of the U.S. Special Operations Command, conducted high-level visits to the Philippines and South Korea to discuss military modernization and the expansion of security networks to deter aggressive actions.

Following these strategic engagements, the United States, Australia, and the Philippines conducted a multilateral maritime cooperative activity near Palawan from August 19 to 25, 2026. This seven-day exercise focused on tactical interoperability, including anti-submarine warfare, search and rescue, and replenishment-at-sea.

In September 2026, regional cooperation expanded through Super Garuda Shield 26 in Indonesia, where multinational forces conducted joint live-fire exercises involving air defense tactics. During these drills, U.S. Marines provided training on the FIM-92 Stinger system, while Indonesian forces practiced using the Mistral 3 system to engage low-altitude threats.

Simultaneously, the United States Marine Corps has been assisting the Philippine Armed Forces in developing strike plans involving BrahMos supersonic anti-ship missiles. During maritime strike rehearsals at Camp Bojeador in Luzon, American and Filipino planners simulated targeting naval vessels, including guided-missile destroyers and frigates. These drills utilized Philippine Air Force Hermes drones to track surface groups, creating a simulated kill chain to integrate drone reconnaissance with coastal missile batteries for enhanced maritime deterrence.