U.S. Army Pacific Chief highlights importance of bilateral training exercises with PA

The Commanding General of the U.S. Army Pacific (USARPAC) Gen. Charles A. Flynn highlighted the importance of bilateral training exercises with the Philippine Army during his joint presser with Army Commanding General Lt. Gen. Roy M. Galido at the Headquarters Philippine Army, Fort Bonifacio, Taguig City on April 29, 2024.

 

Gen. Flynn said that Balikatan and Salaknib Exercises represent the “unity and collective commitment” of Filipino and American soldiers. “We are doing our work together as team mates. We are learning from one another and I think the value of that is just exponential. It is the way in creating a safe and secure environment,” the USARPAC Chief said during the joint presser.

 

For his part, Lt. Gen. Galido said the bilateral exercises bolster interoperability between the two land forces. “For the first time, we communicated on one frequency and one network. It improved the way we make decisions and communicate information,” the Army Chief remarked.

 

The two Army leaders discussed the Salaknib and Balikatan Exercises which include a series of subject matter expert exchanges (SMEEs) and live fire drills between Filipino and American training units. The ongoing Exercise Balikatan builds on the foundation set during Exercise Salaknib. It also showcases additional joint operations at a larger scale.

 

 

Photos by SSg Cesar P. Lopez PA/OACPA