The Philippine Navy (PN) and the Philippine Army, with 254 participants, gained more skills following their participation at the Rim of the Pacific (RIMPAC) drills in Hawaii and Exercise Carabaroo in Australia in July.

In a news release Monday, the PN said its Naval Task Group 84, which includes the guided-missile frigate BRP Miguel Malvar (FFG-6), participated at the RIMPAC.

BRP Miguel Malvar, one of PN’s most modern and advanced naval units, took part in air defense, gunnery exercises, surface and anti-submarine drills, further boosting its defensive capabilities and interoperability with other allied fleet units.

“All heads of the delegation were also given a chance to share their experiences and challenges during the exercise,” the PN said.

A joint booth of the PN and the Philippine Coast Guard was set up to showcase Filipino food and products during the activity.

This year’s event carried the theme “Partners, Integrated, Prepared” and was participated in by 30 nations, 30 naval vessels, five submarines, 15 national land forces, and more than 190 aircraft and 30,000 military personnel.

“As the world’s largest international maritime exercise, RIMPAC provides a unique training opportunity while fostering and sustaining cooperative relationships among participant countries,” the PN said.

The PA’s 120-strong contingent, meanwhile, joined the Australian Army and US Marine Corps units at the Townsville Field Training Area in Queensland.

“A combined defensive live-fire drill served as the highlight of the exercise, showcasing the Philippine and Australian armies interoperability in conducting effective firepower and maneuvers amid enemy attacks. Other key training drills that were part of the exercise included close quarter battle drills, K-9 operations, assault operations, and trilateral mortar live-fire drills with the US Marine Corps,” the PA said.

Carabaroo was hosted by the Darwin-based 1st Brigade of the Australian Army. (PNA)