The Philippines has hosted a major joint naval exercise with Australia, New Zealand, and the United States, held within its Exclusive Economic Zone on October 30 and 31, 2025. The activity, called the Multilateral Maritime Cooperative Activity (MCA), focused on improving teamwork, communication, and sea patrol coordination among the four countries.
The exercise was part of continuing efforts to strengthen cooperation in maintaining peace and lawful use of the seas in the Indo-Pacific region. It also aimed to build the capacity of the Philippine Navy while deepening its partnerships with friendly nations.
Participating vessels included the Philippine Navy’s BRP Jose Rizal (FF 150), the Royal Australian Navy’s HMAS Ballarat (FFH 155), the Royal New Zealand Navy’s HMNZS Aotearoa (A11), and the U.S. Navy’s USS Fitzgerald (DDG 62). Air support came from the Philippines’ AW159 Wildcat, three A-29B Super Tucano aircraft, and a W-3A Sokol helicopter, as well as the U.S. P-8A Poseidon patrol aircraft.
According to the U.S. 7th Fleet, the activity was carried out in line with international law and with respect for the safety and navigational rights of all nations. “These operations continue to strengthen how our forces work together at sea,” the fleet said.
For the Philippines, the drills were a chance to test its growing naval strength and improve coordination with long-standing allies. The country has been expanding its maritime security efforts as part of a broader plan to protect its waters and boost readiness in the face of regional challenges.
During the exercise, ships and aircraft practiced joint maneuvers, surveillance, and communication tasks designed to improve coordination in real-world situations. The event also showed the commitment of all four countries to peaceful and lawful activities at sea.
The U.S. 7th Fleet, based in Japan, said it will continue working with regional partners to support stability and lawful access to international waters. The fleet is the largest U.S. naval force operating in the Western Pacific and regularly holds joint exercises with allies in Asia.
The Philippine Navy described the MCA as another important step in strengthening its capability to operate effectively with partner nations while protecting the country’s maritime interests.
