The Philippines is set to participate in the biannual exercise known as Talisman Sabre for the first time in history. Acting Ambassador of Australia to Manila Moya Collett announced the news at a maritime security forum organized by the Stratbase Institute in partnership with the French Embassy.
Talisman Sabre occurs every two years and primarily involves the U.S. and Australia. It’s the largest military exercise in the southern hemisphere.
MANILA, Philippines — The Philippines will participate for the first time in the Talisman Sabre exercise, the largest military exercise in the southern hemisphere, acting Ambassador of Australia to Manila Moya Collett said.
— The Manila Times (@TheManilaTimes) January 26, 2025
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According to the Australian Defense Force (ADF), this year’s exercise will be the largest ever. A total of 19 nations were invited to participate.
As tensions rise between China and other nations operating in the Pacific, the ADF said this exercise presents an opportunity to collaborate with partners from around the world.
The Philippines’ participation is significant, as the exercise involves thousands of troops operating warships, fighters, bombers and helicopters. The agencies will conduct live-fire drills during amphibious landings, ground maneuvers and sea and air operations.
Looking 🔙 on 2023: We trained with many of our partners. 🤝
— Royal Australian Air Force (@AusAirForce) December 19, 2023
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➡️ Ex Thai Boomerang 🇹🇭
➡️ Ex Mobility Guardian 🇺🇸🇨🇦🇫🇷🇯🇵🇳🇿🇬🇧
➡️ Ex Bersama Lima 🇦🇺🇲🇾🇸🇬🇬🇧
➡️ Ex Malabar 🇮🇳🇺🇸 pic.twitter.com/zyPhUg3N0O
Collett emphasized that maritime security and territorial defense are now key focuses of Australia’s defense cooperation with the Philippines, adapting to the needs of the island nation’s armed forces.
Slated to kick off around mid-July, the 2025 edition of Talisman Sabre will take place at various ADF training sites in Queensland and in the waters and airspace around the Coral Sea.
