Manila:The Philippine Army is expected to engage in more interoperability drills with foreign military counterparts to enhance external defense capabilities, according to PA commander Lt. Gen. Donald Gumiran.

According to Philippines News Agency, Gumiran mentioned in a media interview that these training exercises with like-minded nations aim to achieve interoperability. The Philippines has been participating in military exercises such as 'Balikatan' and 'Salaknib' with countries like the United States, Australia, and Japan.

'Balikatan', initiated in 1991, is a premier exercise between the Philippines and the US focusing on regional security through combined operations across various domains, including maritime and coastal defense, joint live-fire exercises, and humanitarian projects.

'Salaknib', an annual bilateral exercise with the US Army in the Pacific, started in 2016. It aims to enhance readiness and interoperability through combined arms operations and multi-domain integration, contributing to regional stability. This exercise now also includes participation from Japan and Australia.

Lt. Gen. Gumiran emphasized the importance of learning from allies' systems and operations to achieve interoperability. He also mentioned plans to acquire new weapon platforms, including assorted missile systems, with proposals already submitted to the Department of National Defense, although he did not provide further details.