MRF-D 25.3 Charges Into Balikatan 25: A Daring Display of Allied Strength and Commitment in Palawan

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The thunderous roar of Ospreys and the synchronized cadence of boots on foreign soil signal more than just movement—they herald the unwavering resolve of allies bound by shared ideals. Following the successful conclusion of Marine Exercise 25 in Mindanao, the Marine Rotational Force – Darwin (MRF-D) 25.3 Marine Air-Ground Task Force (MAGTF) surged forward to Palawan, setting the stage for one of the most ambitious joint military undertakings in the Indo-Pacific—Exercise Balikatan 25.

This year marks the 40th iteration of Balikatan, the cornerstone of U.S.-Philippine bilateral defense exercises. With a scope broader and bolder than ever, Balikatan 25 aims to sharpen interoperability, bolster regional security, and reflect the growing strength of the U.S.-Philippine-Australia alliance in an increasingly contested maritime domain.

A Force Forward: From Darwin to Palawan

The seamless transition of MRF-D’s Ground Combat Element (GCE) from Mindanao to Palawan wasn’t just a logistical feat—it was a clear signal of resolve. Reinforced by command and logistics elements flown directly from Darwin, Australia, the deployment underscores the MAGTF’s strategic mobility and its readiness to respond at a moment’s notice.

“Our participation in Balikatan alongside our Philippine and Australian counterparts reflects the very essence of why MRF-D exists—to be forward, integrated and ready as a stand-in force,” declared Col. Jason C. Armas, commanding officer of MRF-D 25.3 MAGTF. “Together, we’re sharpening our ability to respond to crises, strengthen regional partnerships and uphold a free and open Indo-Pacific.”

A Trilateral Show of Strength

MRF-D is joined by elite forces from the 5th/7th Battalion, Royal Australian Regiment (5/7 RAR) and the 3rd Marine Brigade (3MBDE) of the Philippine Marine Corps. Their mission? To execute complex, high-risk military scenarios that go far beyond drills—these are rehearsals for real-world defense.

The highlight: a counter-landing live-fire exercise in Rizal, Palawan, where U.S., Australian, and Philippine forces will synchronize air and ground-based fires to repel a simulated amphibious invasion.

The operation will showcase:

Javelin anti-tank missiles, machine guns, and crew-served weapons from U.S. forces.

Anti-tank systems from Australia’s 5/7 RAR.

105mm howitzers and fast-attack air support from the Philippine Armed Forces.

And a stunning High Mobility Artillery Rocket System (HIMARS) live-fire demonstration by the U.S. Army’s 1st Multi-Domain Task Force, proving the power of joint fires coordination.

“This training strengthens not just our interoperability, but our trust in each other as regional security partners,” affirmed LTCOL Adrian Walker, Commander of the Australian Contingent. “We are learning side-by-side in rugged and diverse environments, preparing us to face real-world challenges with confidence and unity.”

Securing the Archipelago: Maritime Key Terrain Operations

In the rugged expanse of Southern Palawan, a second Combined Joint All Domain Operation will unfold. Trilateral forces—inserted by MRF-D MV-22 Ospreys from VMM-363—will secure strategic coastal terrain. As U.S., Australian, and Philippine troops insert by air, Philippine Marine Battalion Landing Teams will conduct amphibious raids to simulate real-time defense of vital maritime chokepoints.

These high-intensity drills reflect the Philippine Archipelagic Coastal Defense Concept—a doctrine born of necessity in a region riddled with maritime disputes and growing tensions. Together, the allied forces are refining their ability to project force, safeguard sovereignty, and maintain open sea lanes.

The Real Meaning of Balikatan

Translated from Filipino, Balikatan means "shoulder-to-shoulder"—a concept that transcends tactics and technology. It embodies the spirit of unity and mutual defense between allies.

“Balikatan is more than just a military exercise—it is a reaffirmation of our enduring alliance and shared commitment to regional stability,” emphasized Brig. Gen. Antonio Mangoroban, commanding general of the 3MBDE. “Through combined operations and shared learning, we enhance our collective readiness to protect our people, our sovereignty and our region.”

A Message Heard Loud and Clear

In a world where flashpoints can ignite at any moment, Balikatan 25 serves as a powerful reminder: the Indo-Pacific is not without defenders. MRF-D 25.3, shoulder-to-shoulder with Philippine and Australian forces, sends an unmistakable message—the allies stand ready.

This is not just an exercise in warfighting. It is a declaration of peace through strength. A warning to those who might test the will of free nations. And a testament to the enduring power of friendship, forged not just in treaties, but in training, trust, and shared trials on the frontlines of freedom.

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